King County Executive Dow Constantine tonight mourned the passing of Chris Wedes, creator of the beloved TV character, J.P. Patches:

“Several generations of Seattle kids owe a bit of their personality and sense of humor to J.P. Patches.

“Chris Wedes, sidekick Bob Newman, and director Joe Towey created a remarkable world of improvised comedy that enthralled children and, with an occasional wink or double-entendre, let parents in on the backstage hilarity.

“I knew this day would come, but cannot believe that it has. Goodnight, sweet clown.”