Former Eastside Journal publisher dies

Chuck Morgan, the former editor and publisher of the Eastside Journal, died on Friday at the age of 98.

Morgan was known throughout the community for his legacy of activism.

Kirkland Deputy Mayor Joan McBride recalls Morgan’s spirit.

“In 50 years of my life here, I remember him always sprinting down the street with a project,” she said.

She added that Morgan was responsible for so many “beautiful” things in the community and region, including that he helped found Evergreen Hospital and was one of the founding fathers of Bellevue Community College.

“His fingerprint, his touch is on just about everything that is good in this city. His legacy is our city,” said McBride.

Morgan was one of former Kirkland Mayor Bill Woods’ best friends for more than 50 years.

Woods said his friend “wouldn’t hesitate to write an editorial page if he disagreed with the council. He was very vocal and influenced people a great deal.”

Besides Morgan’s work ethic, he was also known for being quite the prankster and his sense of humor. Residents have spotted Morgan dancing on table tops when he was in his 80s and well into his 90s.

“He hated growing old,” Woods said.

Morgan is survived by his son, Doug, and daughter-in-law, Joyce, of Wenatchee; son, Greg, and daughter-in-law, Elena Love, of San Jose, Calif.; two grandsons and five great-grandchildren.