On the wall, next to my desk, is a laminated copy of the Seattle Times Northwest section front page with the headline "Seattle's Towering Icon". The large color photo in the feature story shows the Space Needle rising into an azure blue sky. In front of the structure, looking up into the heavens is Bagley Wright. He was one of the original investors in the Space Needle and one of Seattle's most influential leaders during the 50 years that have passed since the Needle was built for the World's Fair.
When we were planning the kickoff of the Space Needle's 50 Anniversary Celebration this spring, I had the good fortune to have several long talks with Bagley Wright. He was a treasure trove of information and very gracious to the others who were involved at the inception. He was insistent that all of the great Seattle families who played a role were invited and recognized at the celebration. He didn't hesitate to say he would be there for the special event and was, in fact, the first to commit. Interestlingly, after that, on four different occasions, I received copies of this photo of his wife Jinny from when the Space Needle project began, with notes saying he thought we "would get a kick out of this picture." Obviously, he deeply loved his wife AND this photo.
The photo was front and center in a position of prominence at our kickoff and Bagley smiled when he saw it. It was a glorious warm spring day and Bagley was basking in the light of a very proud moment for his family, his friends and his city. The light has dimmed today as we learn that Bagley passed away of a heart attack overnight. He was a great man...a consummate businessman, community leader and mentor to many. He and Jinny are in our thoughts and hearts. And as I look at the photo on my wall, it's clear to me that the headline is describing both of the images in the picture...the Space Needle that has become the indelible symbol for our city and Bagley Wright, the towering icon who made his mark on our community forever. We miss him dearly.
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