June 3, 1966 – July 17, 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we share the news of the sudden passing of former WPEA President Kent Stanford, a long-time and deeply valued member of our union family. Kent’s commitment to public service, his belief in the power of solidarity, and his larger-than-life presence will be missed by all who knew and worked with him.

Kent joined WPEA in 1999, when he began his career at the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). He served as a forester and was frequently deployed as a wildland fire fighter. His dedication to public service extended beyond his job—Kent was a fierce and steadfast union member from the very beginning. Long before our affiliation with UFCW, Kent served on the WPEA Executive Board and was a key voice on the task force that helped lead us through that important chapter in our union’s history.

In 2014, Kent was elected President of WPEA, serving two consecutive terms through 2020. During his leadership, Kent brought his characteristic energy, humor, and unwavering dedication to the members he represented. His presidency was marked by advocacy, growth, and a deep sense of community. He believed in listening, acting with integrity, and making time for everyone. After completing his service as President, Kent returned to DNR where he continued to serve the public and remained an active part of our union.

Kent was not only a leader: he was a friend, a mentor, and a source of warmth and inspiration at WPEA and beyond. He was gregarious, kind, supportive, and could always be counted on to speak his mind. At its annual convention this week, the Washington State Labor Council honored Kent with a moment of silence–but Kent was never a silent man. He filled every room with his booming voice, his big heart, and his boundless enthusiasm for justice.

We do not yet have details about Kent’s memorial service, but we will share that information with membership as soon as it becomes available.

Kent Stanford’s legacy will live on in the union he helped build, the members he served, and the countless lives he touched. We send our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who mourn his passing. He was truly one of a kind.