Washington State Tidbits

Recent polls and analysis have revealed interesting trivia about Washington, including the location that was voted as the perfect place to pass away, that our state has one of the most disability-friendly national parks in the country, and as being home to one of America's greatest historical mentors.

Washingtonians Ideal Location for Passing Away? 

Shi Shi Beach at Olympic National Park has been voted as one of the best places to pass away in the state, according to a poll sponsored by Choice Mutual, an insurance agency specializing in final expenses. Perhaps it's the sound of the waves and the peaceful escape that gave Shi Shi Beach this distinctive honor. If you’re going to unwind one last time, why not do it at the edge of the world? 

The report states that while most people may know how they want to be remembered -- perhaps at a dream funeral -- and many may have decided who inherits their prized possessions, there’s one thing we rarely discuss: what would you really want to be doing when you take your last breath? Would you prefer to slip away peacefully at home in bed or while tending to your garden, or would you rather go out with a bang cheering on your favorite team in the final moments of a nail-biting game? Or perhaps you'd choose something you truly love - like hiking your favorite trail or catching the perfect wave. After all, why not make your last moments the ultimate bucket list experience?" 

The poll had other interesting feedback on people's thoughts on passing away. As for who they’d want by their side, 50% said they’d prefer to be surrounded by friends and family, while 19% opted for the presence of one special person. Interestingly, 13% would want their pet with them, proving that our four-legged friends hold a special place in our hearts until the very end. When asked about the vibe they’d want in their last hour, 27% chose to spend it laughing out loud, embracing the joy and humor in life, while nearly 24% preferred a calm and reflective atmosphere. Another 22% hoped for a spiritual journey, focusing on peace, closure, and spirituality. And how would they like their life to be celebrated afterward? A big party was the top choice for 31% of Washingtonians, while a quiet memorial was preferred by 29%. A unique 15% wanted a tree-planting ceremony symbolizing life, growth, and a lasting legacy. When it comes to their obituary, 21% hoped it would start with “Always Made People Laugh,” reflecting the importance of humor and joy. Meanwhile, 19% wanted to be remembered as having “Lived Life to the Fullest” or as being “Beloved by Family and Friends.” Each sentiment tells a story of how they wished to be remembered - whether through love, laughter, or a life well-lived.

Mount Rainier National Park is Disability-Friendly

A report published by isbrave.com (a prosthetic solutions guide) looked at the most disability-friendly national parks in America. Mount Rainier National Park came in second place after Yosemite. The report analyzed online reviews of national parks with a focus on disability related keywords (such as wheelchair, accessible, disability, mobility) to learn which parks best catered to those with disabilities. Mount Rainier scored 72.0% out of 100 (Yosemite scored 73.3% and 3rd place Bryce Canyon scored 69.5%). The reviews of Mount Rainier noted the park's well-maintained roads and high-quality visitor center with interactive displays, movies, artifacts and more. Jonas Torrang, co-founder of isBrave.com, commented on the findings: “This research highlights a critical yet often underappreciated aspect of the tourism industry: accessibility for people with disabilities. Everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy America’s top national parks without feeling excluded, and those that make exceptional efforts to provide such accessibility deserve recognition.”

Washington State: Home to One of America's Greatest Mentors

Throughout history, America has been shaped by individuals whose impact extends beyond their personal achievements. These trailblazers didn’t just succeed in their fields but also played pivotal roles in guiding others, shaping movements, and educating future generations. From civil rights leaders to pioneering scientists, their mentorship has left an indelible mark on education, personal development, and society as a whole. 

Washington had three mentors included in the poll as among the nation's most inspirational in America:

Chief Seattle. A Suquamish and Duwamish chief, Seattle mentored his people and others in environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, and diplomacy, leaving a lasting legacy in Washington State.

Mother Joseph Pariseau. A pioneering figure in Washington’s education and healthcare systems, Mother Joseph mentored young women in leadership and service through her work with the Sisters of Providence.

William O. Douglas. A Supreme Court Justice from Washington, Douglas mentored many through his legal career and advocacy for environmental conservation and civil liberties.

The poll showed that the top 10 most inspirational historical mentors in the country included Martin Luther King, Jr., Helen Keller, Amelia Earhart, John Adams, George Washington Carver, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Frankline, Susan B. Anthony, Frederick Douglass, and Harriet Tubman. 

“This poll highlights the men and women who, through their unwavering dedication, shaped America’s future and helped countless others along the way. Their legacy of mentorship continues to serve as a guiding light for those striving to make a positive difference in the world today,” says Laura Roeder, Founder of Paperbell.com, which sponsored the poll of 3,000 respondents from across the country.