Francina Noordhoek

I have come almost full-circle from West Seattle. After graduating in 1973, I attended the University of Washington where I earned a BA in Germanic Languages & Literature, followed by another BA in Communications with a focus in PR. During that second degree I moved to a rooming house in the U-District, and later to an apartment there. In the mid-80’s I moved to Queen-mont – lower QA by the Fremont Bridge where I lived until the late 90’s, after which I bought a condominium on Magnolia, where I currently live. I say almost full circle as West Seattle and Magnolia sort of have downtown Seattle in a hug. Over these years I’ve worked at the Pike Place Market, Metro Transit, Northwest Harvest, Starbucks, and now Liberty Mutual Insurance, and I’ve always…and continue…love living in the city.

My parents have both passed away, and I’ve sold the family home above Alki Beach, but I still enjoy getting to West Seattle to usher at ArtsWest Theater. It’s so wonderful to have live theater in West Seattle! In addition to ArtsWest, I usher at about five other theaters and subscribe to the Seattle Symphony, Seattle Theater Group (the Paramount and Moore), and buy tickets to other venues that don’t use volunteer ushers. I feel my week hasn’t been complete unless I’ve seen one or two live performances.

When I can, I love to travel and see new things. With retirement around the corner, I’m getting excited about being able to take longer trips. I look forwards to seeing those of you who decide to attend our 45th reunion!