Darlene & Philip

Darlene Johnson ’82 and Philip Barnes ’81

Phil and Darlene attended ASL's prom at the Hyde Park Hotel in May 1981

How did you meet? We were in Mr. Jesse (ASL 1964-91)’s 20th Century American Literature class together; I was a junior and Phil was a senior. During a class reading of Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, Mr. Jesse assigned us the roles of tempestuous couple Martha and George.

What was your first impression of each other? (Darlene) Phil’s status as a Canadian made him almost exotic at ASL. He came from a military/diplomatic family and was somewhat rebellious—he was also the smartest guy I had ever met. The fact that he was a departure from the clean-cut guys in my circle made him wildly attractive. (Phil) I thought she was a woman who you don’t meet every day. She had intelligence, character and beauty with effortless grace.

What was your first date? During a lasagne fundraiser I helped organize as a member of the prom committee, Phil met me outside to hang out with me on my break. It was very sweet.

What is your favorite shared ASL memory? We both appreciate the amazing privilege it was to have excellent teachers in a culturally rich environment. I was at ASL for 10 years, and Phil only arrived senior year. But we both understood even then that it was a singular place.

What is your favorite thing about each other? (Darlene) His caring support of my journey and being a nurturing father to our two sons. (Phil) Her courage to blaze a unique trail, choosing principles to live by and holding true to them through life’s challenges.

Describe your life today. We live in Seattle. Phil is a silicon architect for Microsoft and until recently, I was a chef for a fraternity at the University of Washington. We're also part owners of a large organic farm next to the Olympic National Forest and are currently building a residence/meeting space/workshop and commercial kitchen on the property.  

Where do you see yourselves in 10 years? Deep into farm life, sharing the land and meals with friends and the wider community and constantly learning. That was the idea behind buying the farm; we wanted endless projects and engagement with the world in retirement.

Darlene and Phil hiking in Vietnam a few years ago