Edward Rosenbaum

Edward “Ted” Rosenbaum, 88, of Bainbridge Island, Washington, passed away on March 24, 2026, due to complications from lymphoma.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Ted was raised in Winnetka by his parents, Arthur and Zelda Rosenbaum. In the 1960s, he played a key role at Antioch College, helping bring in talent and organize performances—an experience that reflected his lifelong love of people and connection. He went on to earn his doctorate in psychology from the University of Wisconsin and built a career as a dedicated psychologist in private practice.

In the mid-1980s, Ted began volunteering with the Bainbridge Island Fire Department, where he helped establish its Critical Incident Stress Response program, supporting both firefighters and victims in times of crisis. He later expanded this work to include the police department, the County Sheriff, and the State Parks, becoming a deeply respected and long-serving volunteer in the community.

Ted was bright, funny, and something of a reluctant curmudgeon. He wasn’t big on sentiment, but he cared deeply in practical ways. He loved his family and found lasting meaning in helping others, especially through his years supporting firefighters, police officers, and those in crisis, offering aid and solace when people needed him most.

Ted remained closely connected to his early love of the arts and public radio, volunteering as a talent coordinator and escort for visiting performers. Through this work—and earlier at Antioch—he formed lasting friendships with artists, including the legendary folk singer Odetta and others he greatly admired.

One of Ted’s favorite activities was to cook. To experiment and try new foods and new techniques. He spent years perfecting his bagel recipe, a legacy that will live on with his son and grandchildren.

Above all, Ted’s greatest passion was his family. He was deeply devoted to his son, Josh, and took great pride in raising him. And his wife Virginia. He found his greatest fulfillment in helping others, offering compassion, respect, and perspective to everyone he encountered.

Ted also shared a special bond with Mount Rainier. Beginning in 1980, he and his son made an annual pilgrimage to the mountain. It was a tradition they honored without fail for decades.

He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Virginia MacKinnon; his son, Josh Rosenbaum; and his stepson, Ian MacKinnon; his daughter-in-law, Kat Rosenbaum; and his grandchildren, Rachel and Nick Rosenbaum.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ted’s memory to the

Bainbridge Island volunteer Firefighters association

https://onecallforall.org/bainbridge-island-volunteer.../

OR

Washington National Park Fund:

https://wnpf.org/support-parks/donate/