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As we pay tribute to our servicemembers on Veterans Day, we’re taking this time to highlight a few members of our Market community who have served in our armed forces. We’re proud to host a diverse array of workers and residents who gather here from all walks of life to find comradery, success, and a sense of home at the Market.
Keep reading to get to know 5 of our veteran-owned businesses and staff!
Nathanael Engen, Founder of Black Forest Mushrooms
Serving in the U.S. Air Force, Nathanael found his passion for mission-driven work while operating in logistics and special assignments. This led him to a role supporting the military’s mortuary in Delaware, helping the transition period to bring home fallen service members and their families.
“My work at the Port Mortuary was deeply impactful, ensuring that the dignity and honor of each service member was upheld as we assisted their families in the process of repatriation. This role gave me a profound sense of duty and purpose, reinforcing my commitment to service both in and out of uniform.”
The work during his service resonates deeply with the values that drive his business today at Black Forest Mushrooms. He was eager to build something meaningful to give back to his community after transitioning out of the military, and has done just that. Started as a small passion project in his home garage, this urban farm has grown with immense success in just a few years. It offers a place for Nathanael to share his passion for sustainability and innovating our local food systems, working to transform the urban cultivation process from “fungi to fork”.
Don Kuzaro Jr., Owner of Don & Joe’s Meats
Operating the Market’s sole remaining butcher shop at Don & Joe’s Meats for 38 years, Don Kuzaro has a deep history with the Market that dates back to his youth. Starting as a “clean-up kid” under his father’s charge, Don stepped away from the business to join the Navy on Valentine’s Day in 1972.
Serving on the USS Oriskany based in the Bay Area, Don’s service took him abroad during the Vietnam War, deploying to the Philippines, Hong Kong, and even Kenya.
“It helped me get along with all kinds of people, getting thrown on a ship together.”
Don returned to his roots at the Market after his military service ended in 1976 and found love waiting just across the aisle at another family business. Diana Hanada, who grew up working at her father’s farm stand, became fast friends with Don during their teenage years. Remaining pen pals throughout his deployments and growing closer while abroad, Don tied the knot with Diana in 1978. With the success of their business at Don & Joe’s, they’ve raised a family and enjoyed a lifetime of happy memories making friends in the Market.
Chuck Saul, Owner of Charlie’s Flying Fish
Selling on our craft line since 2003, Chuck Saul of Charlie’s Flying Fish is an Army veteran. Working in air defense artillery, his 4 years of service took him abroad to South Korea during the 1988 Olympics. Working duty during the day, his evenings off consisted of taking in the games alongside his squad members.
It was in the streets of Seoul that he first experienced the energy of a global audience, watching alongside folks from all over to see everything from fencing to ping pong at the highest level of competition.
It was a highly formative experience for Chuck, and carries largely into how he works today.
“You have a respect and decorum in how you carry yourself and interact with others.”
The adventure of travel and meeting people from all around the world is much like working at the Market. Visitors coming to immerse themselves in the local culture can find a connection around every corner, where makers share their passion for craftsmanship and stories of their journey.
Ed Delorme, Assistant Security ManagerÂ
Bringing his 23 years of experience serving in the U.S. Army, Ed has been with our Market Security team since 2020. His tenure took him to bases across the U.S. and deployments in both Iraq and Afghanistan, serving roles in logistics and heavy vehicle transport.
“It was a great experience seeing different parts of the world and being able to serve this great nation.”
At the Market, Ed brings his leadership and technical training to keep a safe and welcoming place for all workers and visitors. He helps manage a team of nearly two dozen officers who provide 24/7 assistance across our nine acres to keep it secure.
Liz Teasley, Security Officer IIÂ
Formerly serving in the National Guard, Liz spent 6 years as a field medic based in the Interbay Armory just north of downtown Seattle. She is one of our most tenured security officers, and has worked at the Market for a combined 18 years in two stretches between her military service. She’s also taken her medical skillset to Harborview Medical Center, working to support intense trauma patients. Liz is a familiar welcoming face to the businesses here and a trusted source for Market knowledge as she’s seen it evolve over the last few decades.
