Barbara Bliss Shinpoch

The Whitefish High Class of 1948 is in great sorrow over the passing of one of the greatest members of their class, Barbara Bliss Shinpoch.

She moved to Renton, Wash. where she became Renton's first female mayor, a position she held for eight years. Known for her quick wit, she is also credited with preserving thoroughbred horse racing in Western Washington. She served as the chairwoman for the Washington Horse Racing Commission. During a time of contention and tensions, she kept her cool and horse racing intact. Her husband, Albert "Bud" Shinpoch, was a chairman of the powerful Ways And Means Committee in the Washington legislature.

At Shinpoch's request, no memorial services were held. Contributions can be made to the Renton Salvation Army Food Bank PO Box 977, Renton, WA, 98057 or to the Renton Historical Society, 235 Mill Ave S., Renton, WA 98055.