Congressman Jack Metcalf, 79, dies

Former U.S. Representative and long-time state lawmaker Jack Metcalf (R-Washington) died Thursday, March 15 from complications relating to Alzheimer’s disease. He was 79.

Metcalf, often called ‘Gentleman Jack’ by his aides, was known by many as a strong advocate in Congress for immigration reform and veterans. As a Republican he often surprised his constituency with his positions on environmental issues such as fighting attempts by the Makah Tribe to revive whaling practices on the Washington coast.
“Jack was independent-minded, a populist, a conservationist and a patriot.

“Some called him a throwback, but he always thought of public policy in the context of history because he was determined not to repeat our mistakes,” said former aide Rep. Chris Strow (R-Whidbey Island) in a statement.

Metcalf retired from Congress in 2001 and opened the Log Castle Bed and Breakfast with his wife Norma in Langley. He was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s a few years later.

On Friday, northwest Washington lawmakers joined together to honor Metcalf’s life and legacy as a long-time Washington legislator for the state’s 2nd District.

His former aides and now-legislators, Kirk Pearson and Strow are requesting the Clinton ferry terminal be named the “Jack Metcalf Ferry Terminal.”