Arthur Tenebrae

Arthur Tenebrae, age 38, of Forks, WA, has left this world on March 20, 2024.

At age 18, Arthur attended Peninsula College. There, he worked as an instructional support technician by maintaining and improving the Biology Department’s biological collection, and as a lab technician, caring for their reptiles and amphibians. He graduated with an Associate of Arts degree in 2006, and an Associate of Science in 2010. Arthur has volunteered at the Olympic Peninsula Humane Society, Feiro Marine Life Center, as a COASST beached bird surveyor and drawing wildlife sign illustrations for Country Aire Natural Foods.

In 2011, he moved to Bellingham, WA, and enrolled at Western Washington University. He was hired as a laboratory and research assistant for WWU’s Biology Department, aiding in lizard studies, maintaining the biological collection and looking after the lizards. Arthur has been acknowledged for assisting in two master thesis studies: western fence lizard thermoregulation and the site occupancy of sagebrush lizards. In 2016, he earned a B.A. in Multidisciplinary Studies and an English minor. He also volunteered at the Sardis Raptor Center, tending to injured and non-releasable birds of prey.

Arthur moved to Forks, WA, in 2018. He joined Friends of Forks Animals, and briefly volunteered for COASST again.

In life, Arthur would be described as solitary, unconventional, creative, imaginative, practical, inquisitive, analytical, cautious, honest and exuberant about his special interests.  Solitude has always provided him with the greatest pleasure, truth, growth, creativity, strength, belonging, freedom and peace.

Zoology was his greatest passion. Since childhood, Arthur always held a strong fascination and deep connection with the animal kingdom, including the so-called “uncharismatic” species like snakes, spiders, cockroaches, rats, vultures, sharks, worms and wasps. He believed all creatures, regardless of human judgement, deserve some respect, compassion, understanding and appreciation.

His other interests and hobbies included biology, paleontology, mythology and folklore, animation, horror, fantasy, science fiction, true crime, the paranormal, vegan cooking and baking, reading, beachcombing, nature walking, rock and fossil collecting, singing and stargazing.

By his request no funeral arrangements will be held. Donations can be made to Washington CoastSavers or COASST in Arthur Tenebrae’s honor.

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