Three Seattle Families, One Legacy of Service
Seattle’s history is built on the stories of families who helped shape the city from its earliest days. Recently, three members of those families — the Dennys, the Bartells, and the Grunds — came together to reflect on their shared legacy, their longtime ties to Seattle’s business community, and their deep commitment to local nonprofits, including The Salvation Army and The Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI).
Their gathering began when Stacey Grund, a longtime Salvation Army board member and currently serving on the National Advisory Board for The Salvation Army, met with Maria Denny. Maria’s family arrived at Alki Point (West Seattle) in 1851 and played a pivotal role in founding the city of Seattle. Stacey also invited George Bartell to the meeting. George is a fellow Salvation Army board member, whose grandfather purchased a store in 1890 that became Bartell Drugs, one of the region’s most recognizable local businesses. Stacey’s own family roots run deep as well—his family launched a construction business in 1898 and later contributed to wartime efforts during World War II.
Although their families did not previously know each other, their shared histories quickly sparked conversation. These families promote a legacy of service to their community, helping sustain Seattle's history while working to ensure the city moves forward, sharing the stories of the past, present, and future.
A Shared Commitment to Service
Both the Bartell and Grund families have long supported The Salvation Army and its mission. Stacey first joined The Salvation Army’s King County Advisory Board in 1991, when he was only 26. “I didn’t know much about The Salvation Army at first,” he said. “But I had always felt called to serve at a board level. Once I saw the dedication of the officers and staff—and how deeply they’re committed to changing lives for the better—I knew it was something I wanted to be part of.”
One of the moments that stayed with him forever happened during a Toy N Joy event:
“A young mother collapsed into my arms, overwhelmed with gratitude as she received a bicycle for her child.”
“That’s the kind of impact that keeps me coming back,” Stacey said.
George Bartell has served on the King County Advisory Board since the early 2000s, eventually stepping into a leadership role.
For George, the connection to The Salvation Army began long before his board service. Both of his parents lived through the Great Depression, and his mother always spoke about the support The Salvation Army offered during those difficult years. That early impression stayed with him.
His family stores supported The Army’s holiday programs for decades—advertising toy drives, hosting Angel Trees, and helping collect and distribute toys across the region.
Their discussions at MOHAI reflect the intersection of past and present: family legacies, Seattle’s transformation, and the vital role nonprofits play in preserving community and serving those most in need.