We are very saddened by today’s news; Jeff Brotman’s passing is a big loss for our community. Jeff was a visionary, not only in business, but also in community giving. He understood the power of bringing people together and has influenced so many in our area, that his legacy will undoubtedly live on.

United Way of King County is lucky enough to have counted Jeff as a close friend for many years. He chaired the United Way fundraising campaign in 1997 – 1998 and his level of commitment to that work surprised no one. He dedicated a team to support United Way and hit the campaign trail sharing his passion for United Way’s work. He helped shape the United Way brand and grow our fundraising to do even more good. His was a record breaking campaign and he introduced so many people to supporting health and human services that year.

He and his wife Susan have been long-time supporters of the arts and they encouraged their peers to include United Way in their giving. Along with Scott Oki, Jeff began co-chairing the Million Dollar Roundtable beginning in 1999. They grew the program to more than 40 members – and Jeff has been the Chair ever since. Because of his commitment and charisma, this is the largest United Way Million Dollar Roundtable group in the country. He made it exciting to be involved in social services and United Way. He and Susan hosted parties – from formal events to themed events, like ‘elephant bumping’ in Sun Valley.

“Jeff has been a giant in the worlds of business and philanthropy.  He has been a mentor for me and he has been enormously supportive of United Way. I’ll deeply miss his help and guidance and I know that so many others are feeling that same sense of loss today”, reflected Jon Fine, United Way of King County President and CEO. “Our heart goes out to Susan and their family.”