John K Winters

John Winters, custom jeweler and original owner of Gold Mine Jewelry passed away February 18 after a brief illness. John was the son of Billy and Juanita Winters of Colusa, California. He lived there until he graduated from Colusa High School where he was on the football team. After high school he attended Sacramento State University in Sacramento, California. While there he lived across the street from the original Shakey’s Pizza Parlor on J Street. Living so close to a pizza parlor probably accounts for his lifelong love of pizza. John and Lois married in 1965 and together they moved to Seattle. Son Mark was born in 1966. John worked for the Boeing Company testing non-metal materials which would later become major components of Boeing airplanes. Following the loss of his job at Boeing in 1971, John began learning the art of jewelry making. He took classes at Seward Park Art Studio, but very quickly became the instructor.

After that he started Gold Mine Jewelry which had several locations in the Seattle area before settling on First Avenue near the Pike Place Market. While there, John along with friend Charles Faddis developed a wax cutting device powered by an Apple Computer. John used the device to make many interesting and unusual items of jewelry. They were able to market their device through a joint venture called Wax Cutter. 

Following the sale of Gold Mine Jewelry to colleague, Cindi Hansen, John enjoyed making the occasional piece of jewelry at his home in Poulsbo and most importantly small tops which he loved to give away to anyone he thought might appreciate one. There was an informal competition to see who could make one spin the longest. One of the best times is nearly a minute. In total, John gave away more than 1500 of these tops. 

During his life time John’s hobbies included making model airplanes, model ships, sailing, and driving his red Sprite. 

John is survived by long time friend and companion, Julia Murray, who provided immeasurable support and help; son Mark Winters; ex wife Lois and many friends and customers. Contributions in John’s memory may be made to a favorite charity.