We are saddened to share the news that longtime NAMI Southwest Washington volunteer and former board member, John LaPointe passed away on June 13, 2026, at the age of 71.
For nearly 10 years, John touched countless lives through his compassion, dedication, and commitment to helping others. He first became involved with NAMI in 2016 while seeking support and resources for his family. What began as a personal journey grew into an extraordinary commitment to serving individuals and families affected by mental health conditions throughout our community.
John contributed more than 1,000 volunteer hours to NAMI Southwest Washington from 2016 to 2026, serving at our front desk, facilitating support groups, and sharing his valuable perspective with those we serve. He also served on our Board of Directors for 4 and a half years. He will be remembered for his wholesome “Dad jokes” around the NAMI office, and his unwavering dedication to our mission and organization.
One of John’s guiding beliefs was simple: “If I can help that person over there, and make their life just a little bit better, isn’t that worth my time?”
