Stephanie Spar, The World's Tiniest Architect, quiet critic of BlatherWatch and restaurants that don't remove the seeds from their lemon slices, died Monday at home. She was 56.
Stephanie worked on countless building projects in and around Seattle and was known as a unassuming, thorough designer who could pick up a set of "finished" drawings and almost at once see 10 flaws. That didn't always make her popular with her bosses and co-workers, but one could rarely argue with her perusals. She woudn't have argued about it anyway- she didn't relish being right, but took brave professional stands being correct.
She was the mistress of the pride of kitties that overrun our home; made long-lasting friendships, was a gifted gardner, baker, concierge, world traveler, lover of fine bakeries, and an excellent partner and neighbor in a quiet life on a quiet street.
She gave her time and money to many charitable organizations both before and after she was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2008.
There will be a party for Stephanie, soon- please write me via this blog if you'd like to attend. Conservatives OK.
So sorry to hear this news, Michael. Makes our political battles seem insignificant at best. My condolences to you and yours. Peace to you all.
Posted by: RQ | February 08, 2012 at 05:45 PM
I’m very saddened of Stephanie’s passing. I offer my condolences. She sounds like a very well lived lady.
Posted by: BlackRhino | February 08, 2012 at 06:11 PM
Condolences Michael
Posted by: Coiler | February 08, 2012 at 06:59 PM
Peace to you Michael.
Posted by: sparky | February 08, 2012 at 07:55 PM
I rarely leave comments on this blog, but BlatherWatch is one of a very small handful of websites I visit on a daily basis. It's probably cliche to say this, but I feel like I've gotten to know you, Michael, even though we've never met. You've always been very generous in sharing your life with your readers, and I think many of us share in your grief now.
I never had the privilege of meeting Stephanie either, but she had a rather profound effect on my life. Her posts on your BlatherMangia site were my first exposure to the world of "foodies", which has become a great passion of mine. I very much enjoyed Stephanie's writings. As I've continued to learn about all things culinary, I've reread some of her articles and have developed a real appreciation of her tastes and views. I didn't have to know her personally to know what a special person she was. She will be missed.
Posted by: Tony | February 08, 2012 at 08:26 PM
It's inadequate, but I'll add my condolences. Know that you have a community of support here, Bla'M.
And take your time dealing with this. We'll still be here.
Posted by: Pete | February 08, 2012 at 08:43 PM
I know she felt loved when she passed, and what more can we ask for?
So sad for your loss.
Posted by: AprilMayJune | February 08, 2012 at 08:50 PM
Mara, Luca, and I send our thoughts and prayers. We love you Michael!
Posted by: mercifurious | February 08, 2012 at 09:41 PM
Oh Michael,
She has such a wonderful smile and eyes that tell you that she can spot the baloney. I can see why you were attracted to this fine lady.
May she rest in peace but never be forgotten.
Posted by: Puget Sound Blathers | February 08, 2012 at 09:46 PM
Oh Michael, I'm so sorry to hear this sad news. I was hoping against hope that your recently-announced light blogging didn't presage this turn.
My deepest condolences on Stephanie's passing.
Do let me know of your plans for the memorial event.
Posted by: N in Seattle | February 08, 2012 at 10:31 PM
My condolences and hope for better tomorrows. It's not an easy climb, but it can be done.
RJ
Posted by: Rich Johnson | February 09, 2012 at 03:56 AM
My deepest condolences, Michael.
Posted by: Mike Barer | February 09, 2012 at 07:13 AM
Very sorry to read of your loss, Michael, and I'm sending my condolences.
Posted by: Tommy008 | February 09, 2012 at 07:48 AM
My sincere condolences for your loss Michael.
Posted by: tds | February 09, 2012 at 08:38 AM
I am so sorry to hear this, Michael. You took good care of her. Being able to die at home with your loved ones is a blessing that you made possible for her. My best wishes to you and your family.
Posted by: David Tatelman | February 09, 2012 at 10:35 AM
Peace to you all, Michael, Pud' and Fremont...
Posted by: Fremont | February 09, 2012 at 12:19 PM
She was blessed to have been with you and you with her for all these years. I am sorry to see of her have to leave such a loving man.
My warmest regards to you in your time of grief.
Posted by: Chucks | February 09, 2012 at 12:45 PM
My heartfelt condolences for the loss of your dear Stephanie. It's a small thing, but my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
I wish I could hug you thru the computer. I've found the human touch can be a healing thing. I do hope you're getting many real hugs.
Posted by: kate | February 09, 2012 at 03:32 PM
Sorry for your loss, my deepest condolences.
Posted by: R M | February 09, 2012 at 06:04 PM
It's hard to find words that might be of comfort at a time of such heartbreaking grief, Michael, but please accept my sincere sympathy in the loss of Stephanie. I hope that memories of shared joy will lift your spirits and bring you some measure of comfort and solace.
Bill Taylor
Posted by: Bill | February 09, 2012 at 07:00 PM
I dearly hope that the memories of which you speak with such sparkle will continue to give you strength -- especially in the near-term, which is always hardest. Send you BOTH a smile, which I hope is something of a small emotional handkerchief for now.
Posted by: Eric | February 09, 2012 at 07:11 PM
As you grieve, Michael, know that we are remembering you and honoring the memory of Stephanie.
Posted by: Cueburner | February 09, 2012 at 08:21 PM
I'm just a guy who loves your blog, but I'm very saddened to hear about your loss. Hang in there, and take care of yourself.
Posted by: John | February 09, 2012 at 08:45 PM
Peace and love to you and yours. Cherish your memories!
Posted by: Beans | February 09, 2012 at 10:13 PM
What a hard journey you've had the last years. I am so glad for the time you and Stephanie had together. She was a great person and you are a very good man.
Posted by: James | February 10, 2012 at 02:25 AM
Michael, I tried to leave a comment yesterday--not sure if I forgot to press post. I was a bit of a mess as I wrote it. Your Stephanie meant a good deal to me and I am so very sorry that she is no longer with us. I do know she cherished her time with you.
Linnea
Posted by: Linnea Duff | February 10, 2012 at 07:28 AM
Oh Michael, I am so sorry. Love to you from all of us at HistoryLink.org. Priscilla
Posted by: Priscilla Long | February 10, 2012 at 07:57 AM
My condolences Michael. Danny O'Brien
Posted by: Danny O'Brien | February 10, 2012 at 09:21 AM
Love, Blessings and Condolences to you, April, and the rest of your family. I am so, so sorry for your loss.
Posted by: Ellywood | February 10, 2012 at 11:19 AM
Deepest condolences from a lurking reader. Wishing you much peace and support in the coming time.
Posted by: dupperoo | February 10, 2012 at 11:55 AM
My condolences for your loss Michael. She was a blessing and a kindred spirit. Cherish the memories and take your time in grieving. Peace and support to you and rest of your family.
Posted by: KS | February 10, 2012 at 11:19 PM
I've been a silent admirer for years and must add my sincere condolences for your loss. You both have touched us all, with lots of love, mirth and common sense (and the occasional well-placed obscenity, of course...). So in the end, the love you take is equal to ... you know the rest, and you have given us plenty. Take good care of yourself now.
Posted by: suzy | February 11, 2012 at 10:46 PM
Condolences to you Michael. God's blessings to you and your extended family. I just lost my cousin to stomach cancer a month ago, at age 60.
As always, keep her in your heart. Her spirit lives on.
Posted by: Chad Stanley | February 12, 2012 at 01:30 PM
I'm sorry for your loss.
peace
Joe
Posted by: Joe | February 12, 2012 at 08:55 PM
Michael,
I am so sorry for your tremendous loss. I know Stephanie is at peace, and in time, may you and everyone who loved her, again feel peace...
Posted by: BigGirlsBlouse | February 12, 2012 at 10:24 PM
My sincere condolences to you and your family on this loss.
Posted by: Dianne | February 13, 2012 at 08:57 AM
Watch for hummingbirds, crows and moths...messengers of the kindest souls :)
Posted by: nuemes | February 13, 2012 at 12:48 PM
My condolences to you. She sounds like a wonderful woman.
Posted by: Diana | February 17, 2012 at 02:39 PM
Condolence man, I wish you could make it up after she's gone.
Posted by: Green Mountain National | February 18, 2012 at 05:48 AM
Michael: I just now saw this post. My prayers are with you. Bill Wippel
Posted by: Bill Wippel | February 27, 2012 at 10:23 AM
Michael - I was Stephanie's teacher in the Fundraising Program, and I just learned from another student that we had lost Stephanie. I feel a little foolish, having just sent her another email last night, telling her I was thinking about her. Oh well, I imagine she knows. We thoroughly enjoyed her insight and her quiet humor in class. I'm so glad you got to go to Italy last fall. Take care of yourself. I'll be sending good energy your way. Susan
Posted by: Susan Howlett | April 17, 2012 at 09:49 AM