Harry Lewis Brotten Jr, known to everyone he met as “Papa”, passed away peacefully February 13, 2021 at the VA hospital in Seattle. He was born to parents Harry Brotten Sr and Mamie Brotten on July 29, 1927. Papa was a proud veteran of the Korean War and a jack of all trades. His jobs included working as a postman, security guard and in vocational rehab. He always dreamed of owning his own gas station where he could follow his passion, working on cars and socializing with everyone he met.

Papa was a dreamer and a storyteller and everyone he met walked away knowing a piece of his life. He had an infectious passion for jazz and often told stories of his days as a jazz drummer. He loved camping in his Volkswagen bus with family and friends and never gave up the hope that he would one day camp again. Papa was full of life and love and was always thinking of ways that he could help those around him.

Papa was a devoted family man and nurtured many children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Survivors include daughter, Lannette Brotten, of Kent; four step daughters Robin Brotten, Harriet Brotten, Crystal Smith, and Karen Schuberg; stepson, Darryl Smith; three grandchildren, Brent Brotten, Kerry Smith and Kiyana Shorter, and several great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his son, Michael Brotten; stepsons, Harry Brotten III and Benny Smith; and stepdaughter, Patti-John Brotten.

Papa will be deeply missed by everyone he knew. Private interment services will take place at Tahoma National Cemetery at a later date. Those wishing to honor his life can give donations in his name to ASPCA or to the Wounded Warrior Project.