John Brewer, a journalist with a 50-year career including nearly two decades at The Associated Press, has passed away at the age of 76. While on a fly fishing trip in Montana, the boat Brewer was in hit a submerged log and flipped over, resulting in his tragic death. Brewer retired in 2015 after serving as the editor and publisher of the Peninsula Daily News in Port Angeles for 18 years. He was remembered as a dedicated journalist driven by a passion for community and local journalism.
Born in 1947, Brewer began his journalism career by writing for his high school newspaper before taking on his first paid job with a weekly paper in Upland, California. He went on to work for The Associated Press from 1969 to 1988, holding roles such as reporter, bureau chief, and executive in Seattle, Los Angeles, and New York. As the Seattle bureau chief, Brewer oversaw coverage of the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens and later supervised reporting on the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. He even had a memorable encounter with actor Mark Hamill during his time with the AP.
Throughout his career, Brewer made lasting connections with colleagues, such as Jeff Wilson, whom he hired as a reporter in Los Angeles. Wilson recalls Brewer’s presence during his overnight shifts and the encouraging words he would receive from his boss. Brewer also spent a decade as the president, CEO, and editor-in-chief of The New York Times Syndication Sales Corp, where he brought on high-profile columnists for the Times’ syndicate. In Port Angeles, Brewer was actively involved in various civic organizations and was known for his dedication to serving the community.
Described by his wife as the nicest, most generous man, Brewer was involved in his small town as a mentor and advisor to many. He was known for his commitment to keeping the community informed and engaged through his work in journalism and involvement in local events. Even in retirement, Brewer continued to stay connected online and support community initiatives. Survived by his wife and two sons, Brewer’s impact on the journalism industry and his local community will be remembered by those who knew and worked with him. Funeral arrangements for Brewer have not yet been announced.
