Colton Robert Jobes

Colton was a loving son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend. Colton died Sunday, November 17th. He was on a work trip with his dad in Texas. He was joking and laughing with his dad and others at a restaurant right up to the last few minutes. His death was unexpected, sudden and so tragic. 

Above all, Colton valued his family. He was the first grandchild on both sides and shared a special bond with each of his grandparents. Colton’s love for his family was immense. He was especially close to his siblings, always taking pride in being the best older brother he could be. Colton spent countless hours with his family, creating memories and offering support to those he loved. His devotion extended to his friends as well. He cherished spending time with them—whether it was sharing a meal, attending Husky games, chess tournaments or going on hikes. Colton had an extraordinary way of looking after those around him. He would drop everything to be there for the people he loved. Colton always made time for others, and he would patiently listen. 

Colton graduated from Woodinville High School in 2019. He entered the University of Washington as almost a junior with 87 credits from the AP courses he took in high school. He was a National Merit Commended Scholar and had a near-perfect SAT score. Colton was an athlete who grew up playing baseball, tennis, and golf. In high school, he ran track and field and played varsity golf. He was the captain of his golf team in his senior year. Colton also loved to give back, volunteering as a tutor after school and as a camp counselor at Camp Sambica, where he found great joy in teaching others. 

In 2023, Colton graduated from the University of Washington’s Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering with a Bachelor of Science degree. Colton was accepted as a direct admit to the Computer Science program. During his time at UW, Colton was a Teacher’s Assistant for computer science courses and worked as a Java programming instructor for Ellipsis Academy. Teaching was a passion for Colton, and his gift for it was evident in the way he connected with students and made complex concepts accessible. 

After graduation, Colton began his career as a Software Engineer at Sporcle, where he became a valued team member. He loved his job, felt proud of the work he was doing, and was deeply appreciative of the colleagues he worked with. 

Colton was always wise beyond his years, with an insatiable curiosity about the world around him. Always seeking the silver lining, he had a unique ability to focus on the positive, no matter the situation. His natural inclination to challenge the boundaries of the world, testing limits and questioning the rules, reflects his deep desire to understand not just how things are, but why they are that way. He could never accept things at face value, he needed to know the reasoning behind them, always striving to uncover the deeper truths that others might overlook. 

Colton loved to joke and make everyone laugh; puns were his specialty. He would use his amazing sense of humor to make everyone have fun and feel comfortable. Colton was also an avid chess player, golfer, hiker, and skier—always ready for an adventure. He was patient, a great listener, and kind to everyone he met. He was always so willing to help anyone at any time. He brought joy everywhere he went. Colton’s presence brightened any room.  

Colton was deeply loved, and he loved us all with his whole heart. His memory will live on in the countless lives he touched, and the spirit of who he was will forever remain with us.