June 22, 2023

Jon Runstad dies at age 81

Runstad

Wright Runstad & Co. yesterday announced the death of its founder and chairman, H. Jon Runstad, who died at the age of 81.

Runstad founded Wright Runstad in 1972 and served as its chief executive officer for nearly 47 years. Under his leadership, Wright Runstad developed nearly 20 million square feet of large-scale office and mixed-use real estate projects, including the iconic Rainier Square and 1201 Third Ave., both of which define Seattle's skyline, and the Spring District in Bellevue. Runstad also was proud to lead the 2013 redevelopment of Husky Stadium on behalf of the University of Washington.

Runstad built the company on core values of integrity, quality and service, which values are demonstrated in its continued commitment to premier development, ownership and management of a 4.5 million-square-foot real estate portfolio, on behalf of its valued tenants, third-party owners and institutional partners.

In addition to his real estate accomplishments, Runstad, along with his wife Judith M. Runstad, was an active philanthropist with a focus on civic causes, entrepreneurial real estate education and local charities that strengthened Pacific Northwest communities, including the creation of the Runstad Department of Real Estate at the UW, his nearly lifelong involvement with the Board of Rowing Stewards at the UW, and his more recent prominent support of the Waterfront Park as part of the Waterfront Seattle project.

In a joint statement, Greg Johnson and Walt Ingram, Wright Runstad co-CEOs, expressed their sorrow and gratitude for Mr. Runstad saying, “Jon has been and will always be a monumental figure in our city and region. Jon was marked by his keen intellect and understanding of all aspects of real estate, his disciplined way of thinking, his ability to make concise decisions and most importantly his belief in each of the projects and the people that worked towards successful outcomes.

“He was a generous philanthropist, a stern leader, a wonderful partner and an unwavering friend to many. We will miss his leadership, guidance and steady hand. We extend our deepest condolences to Judith, Jon's family and loved ones.”

“It was my great privilege to work closely with Jon and learn from his approach and dedication to doing things the right way,” said Andy Bench, a principal and managing director of development. “The leadership of the firm and each of the employees of Wright Runstad are committed to honoring Jon's legacy in that way.”