Kip Ward
In 1984 I went to work for Kip Ward…
…as his only waiter in his 99 cent spaghetti restaurant called “Kip’s.” I worked there for a full year, writing, until my house near the beach in Lincoln City burnt down and my second wife and I moved back to Idaho to recover.
Thirty-three years. For the last thirteen years or so Kris and I have offered writer workshops based at his wonderful and unique hotel The Anchor.
I spent many wonderful evenings for years playing poker with Kip, one of the best natural players I had ever had the pleasure to go against.
Kip was part of the center of this town. The workshops will go on without him. The town will go on without him. So will life in general.
But he will be missed.
It was a great honor to know him and call him a friend.
10 Comments
Linda Jordan
I’m so sorry, Dean. The world is a poorer place without him. The Anchor is an amazing testament to his creativity. I loved seeing the new additions every time I went there. His cooking was legendary, I was sad when he retired, but that’s just me being selfish. I can only imagine how much of his creativity went into the community. He was always very kind whenever I met up with him. I’m sorry for those who know him, and will miss his presence.
Kate Pavelle
I am so sorry to hear of Kip’s passing.
Lena Goldfinch
So sorry for the loss of your friend.
Chris Clark
Damn. I’m sorry to read that Kip passed away. While I didn’t know him personally, it’s clear from the comments in The News Guard and elsewhere online that he was a much-loved member of the Lincoln City community. I’m very sorry for your loss.
Julie
Very sorry that you’ve lost such a good friend, Dean.
J.M. Ney-Grimm
Oh, hearing this makes me so sad. I am so sorry for your loss.
Mark Kuhn
Very sorry for your loss, Dean.
Gael
Sorry for your loss, Dean. He sounds like a great guy.
Steve
Sorry to hear of Kip’s passing, Dean. It’s been years since I’ve been to the Anchor, but Kip was a great guy.
Michele Laframboise
Oh no! I just learn about Kip.
I will remember his hospitality last October, his making us visit the Eventuary, and his wonderful crepes at the Anchor.
Will think of him each time as I do my own crepes.