Jeff Paton served faithfully as our treasurer from the very beginning, but he was so much more than that. Jeff was the heart and soul of LMA. He opened his home—both his house in Cashmere and his cabin at Lake Wenatchee—for countless retreats, dinners, and gatherings that brought our community together. Cornish game hens, spiral hams, and freshly caught steelhead were familiar staples at his table. Every holiday, Jeff made a point to welcome anyone who didn’t have somewhere to go, inviting them to join his own celebration. “The steaks are prime, the hot tub is hot, and the beer is cold,” he’d say and he meant every word.

Jeff was the embodiment of seizing the day. He refused to let anything stand in the way of living life fully- no physical pain too great, no emotional setback too heavy and certainly no alpine trail too steep. His childlike enthusiasm, optimism and love for the world were impossible to miss and will be even harder to forget.

While we grieve the loss of a true community legend, it brings us comfort to know that Jeff passed peacefully, surrounded by good friends and doing what he loved. In his generous spirit, we encourage all LMA supporters to take a moment to do something kind- whether for a close friend or a perfect stranger.

Rest easy, Jeff. Off belay.