Patricia Moran, passed away on Friday, August 22, 2008 at her home on Bainbridge Island, Washington. She was born on July 27, 1925 and was 83 years of age. Arrangements are pending through Cook Family Funeral Home.
Addison F. Muzzy, passed away on August 19, 2008 at Harbor House in Poulsbo, Washington. He was born on March 14, 1913 in Lorenz, Iowa and was 95 years of age. Memorial Services at First Lutheran Church are pending through Cook Family Home.
Ora I. Brumbelow, passed away on Tuesday, August 19, 2008 at Martha and Mary Health Care in Poulsbo, Washington. She was born on July 22, 1911 in DeLeon, Texas and was 97 years of age. Inurnment will take place at Restlawn Memory Gardens Cemetery in Salem, Oregon. Arrangements entrusted to Cook Family Funeral Home.
Louise Richer, passed away on Sunday, August 17, 2008 at Island Health & Rehabilitation on Bainbridge Island, Washington. She was born on April 28, 1917 and was 91 years of age. Arrangements are pending through Cook Family Funeral Home.
Walter D. McKerchar, died on Tuesday, August 12, 2008 at Harrison Hospital in Bremerton, Washington. Walt was born in Brooklyn, New York on September 8th 1929.
He enlisted in the Coast Guard at the age of 15 to serve in World War II. He attended MIT, and became an electronic engineer, specializing in electromagnetic. After working in a number of aeronautical companies, he moved to Boeing. Eventually he went into a consulting business for himself and traveled all over the world. His wife Kaye traveled with him. He was renown in his field and received many awards.
After the couple moved to Poulsbo, he became a principal consultant of Electromagnetic Engineering. Walt was active in the Seattle Nile Temple. He attended a three-day University of Minnesota clown school to become a Shrine Clown. His greatest reward was in entertaining others.
He was a member of St. Antony’s Episcopal Church, Noon Lyons, Poulsbo police volunteer, docent at under sea Naval Museum, and charter member Viking Shrine Club.
Walt is survived by his Wife, Kaye McKerchar; son Jim McKerchar, daughters; June Tommey and Kim Reeff; stepson, Rick Jennings, six grandchildren, many great grandchildren and one on the way.
His life and legacy will be honored and celebrated at St. Antony’s Episcopal Church in Silverdale on August 19th at 2:00 PM.
Memorials can be sent to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center at PO Box 19024 Seattle, WA 98109.
Carmelita Faye Seachord, "Candi", passed away suddenly on Sunday, August 10, 2008 at Harrison Hospital in Bremerton, Washington. She was born on April 29, 1949 in Tonasket, Washington to Joseph Cornelius Ives and Geneva Vivian Jones Ives. She was 59 years of age.
Candi worked as the Court Administrator and Enrollment Director for the Port Gamble – S’Klallam Tribe in Kingston, WA. She was a member of the Colville Confederated Tribe and the Port Gamble Worship Center.
Candi is survived by her husband, Terrance L. Seachord, children, Kari L. & Dennis D. Decoteau, Jackie A. and Anthony Reynolds, also her siblings; Joseph E. Ives, Raymond D. Ives, Patrick V. and Tracy A. Ives, Deborah J. Ives, Martina M. Ives Armstrong and Betty Y. and Brett Decoteau. Candi also leaves behind her grandchildren; Tawny L., Jaymon D., Shayla D. and Bryce J. Decoteau and Michael A., Chad A. and Natasha Reynolds and Brittny McBride, also her great-grandchildren; Izaiaha and Jadyn Reynolds. There are many other loving family and friends.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend the funeral service on Saturday, August 16, 2008 at 2:00 PM at the Port Gamble Tribal Gym in Kingston. Interment will take place at the Port Gamble Tribal Cemetery. A reception will follow the services at the gym.
Juneau Wilkinson, passed away on Saturday, August 9, 2008 at Island Health and Rehabilitation on Bainbridge Island, Washington. She was born on October 16, 1916 and was 91 years of age. Arrangements are pending through Cook Family Funeral Home.
Duane Francis Pape, Jr., "Wayne", passed away on Thursday, August 7, 2008 in a car accident in Kingston, Washington. He was born on November 22, 1963 in Portland, Oregon and was 44 years of age.
Wayne loved to fish, hunt and play sports. He served in the U.S. Airforce for four years. He worked as a tree topper and lived life to its fullest.
He is survived by his mother, Sally L. Sullivan of Kingston, his father Duane Francis Pape, Sr. of California and his step-father Conrad Sullivan. He also leaves behind his step-children; Amanda, Alyssa, Josh and Krystyn Purser, his siblings; Stormy Sullivan and Marie Hebert of Kingston, Traci Ives of Suquamish, Donald and Mike Sullivan of Kingston, many nieces and nephews, one great niece and his grandchildren Justin, Marcelene and Kylia.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend the visitation on Wednesday, August 13, 2008 from 5-7 PM at Cook Family Funeral Home, 163 Wyatt Way NE on Bainbridge Island, also the Memorial Service on Thursday, August 14, 2008 at 1:00 PM at The Port Gamble - S'Klallam Tribal Gym.
John Carroll Herber, passed away peacefully after a prolonged battle with Parkinson’s disease on Monday, August 4, 2008, in his wife’s arms and surrounded by family. His life was one punctuated with success: most significantly in his resolve to remain at home with Annette, the love of his life, until his end despite his long-term debilitative illness.
He is survived by Annette, their five children, three sons-in-law, nine grandchildren, his brother, and a menagerie of family dogs, all of whom were devoted to him.
Professionally, his career in banking spanned 45 years, 35 with Seafirst and Bank of America, and 10 with Frontier Bank. Privately, he was an avid reader, fisherman, golfer, and lover of good food and strong coffee. He served his country as a Marine during the Korean War, and served his community through his active participation as a volunteer with Rotary, the United Way of Snohomish County, the Snohomish County Economic Development Council, the Providence Hospital Executive Board, the Everett School District Advisory Board, the Everett Golf and Country Club Board, and myriad other service organizations and groups of which he was proud to be associated. With his easy wit, ready smile, and straightforward common sense, John earned a reputation that extolled exactly what he was … a very gracious, loyal and decent man. He will be deeply missed.
For those in Everett wishing to celebrate John’s life, the family will be hosting a memorial gathering at 4 P.M. on Tuesday, August 19, at the Everett Golf and Country Club.
For those on Bainbridge Island wishing to celebrate John’s life, the family will be hosting an open house from 3 – 6 P.M. on Saturday, August 30, at the family home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Providence General Foundation (P.O. Box 1067, Everett, WA 98206) or Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers of Bainbridge Island (PO Box 11253, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110).
Robert G. Morgan, passed away on Saturday, August 2, 2008 at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, Washington. He was a resident of Bainbridge Island, Washington. No services will be held at his request. Cremation arrangements are pending through Cook Family Funeral Home.
Robert George Morgan, passed away of natural causes on Saturday, August 2, 2008 at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, Washington. He was born on May 26, 1929 in Seattle, Washington and was 79 years of age. Robert lived on Bainbridge Island since 1959.
He is survived by his wife Hazel, children; Robert Jr., Jeanne, Linda, Teresa, Kathleen and Betty. He also leaves behind his granddaughter Rachel.
No services will be held. Memorial contributions can be made to Bainbridge Island Ambulance, P.O. Box 11548, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110.
Thomas Kelley, of Seattle and Whidbey Island WA, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2008. He was born in Seattle, grew up in Laurelhurst and attended Sacred Heart Villa Academy, Blanchet High School, WSU and the UW. He spent many summers growing up on Bainbridge Island.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Anna Helen Kelley, his sister, Sue and his nephew, Jason. He is survived by his sisters Helena Chechopolous (George) of Marrowstone Island, Maureen Jurcak (Tom) and brother, Bill Kelley of Bainbridge Island and numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.
Tom had a great love of reading and was always in pursuit of academic interests. Tom was active in the Northwest Dharma Association and with his many friends at Tahoma One Drop Monastery on Whidbey Island. He had a special devotion to those in need, working as a hospice volunteer on Whidbey Island and especially devoted to his brother, Bill.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Tahoma One Drop Monastery 6499 S. Wahl Rd. Freeland, WA 98249. Arrangements are with Cook Family Funeral Home on Bainbridge Island, with a private memorial service to follow on Whidbey Island at a later date.
Patricia Marion Foster, of Bainbridge Island passed away on July 29, 2008 after a long illness. She died peacefully at home surrounded by her family.
Pat was born in 1924 to Walter Reginald Brook Oliver and Isabella Anne Oliver in Seatoun, a suburb of Wellington, New Zealand. She received her teachers training certificate and taught primary school. She later worked as a photogrammetrist, a job which she particularly loved. She married Paul Saxon Alexander Foster in 1949 and they immigrated to the United States in 1951, becoming naturalized citizens in 1957. They lived in New Jersey for one year, then in Seattle, settling on Bainbridge Island in 1960 where they put down roots and raised their five children.
Pat loved gardening, sailing, camping, knitting and music. She was accomplished at the piano, the baroque recorder and composing, and instilled a love of music in her children. She was a deacon in the Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church, coordinating ushers and organizing the flowers for many faithful years. She and her husband Paul also volunteered at Helpline House during their retirement years.
Pat will be remembered for her gentle spirit and quiet joy in helping others.
Pat was preceded in death by her beloved husband in 1999 and her brother Robin Oliver in 2001. She is survived by her sister Nancy Oliver, her five daughters, Susan Newell, Elizabeth Foster, Catherine Foster, Leslie Foley and Mary Grant, and two grandchildren, Arthur Grant and Paul Foley. She will be greatly missed.
A memorial service will be held at Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church Wednesday, August 6, at 2:00 p.m.
Cynthia Niemeier Johnson, passed away on Wednesday, July 23, 2008 at her home in Seattle, Washington. Arrangements are pending through Cook Family Funeral Home.
Mabel Ruth Smylie, age 91, died on Tuesday, July 22 on Bainbridge Island. She was born in Severy, Kansas on August 2, 1916, four years before women could vote. She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Mary Finchum, by her four siblings, Lily, Thena, Dayton, and Jean, and her former spouses, George Hunter Smylie and Gene Earl Smylie.
Mabel was a gifted student, graduated from high school at age 15, and began teaching following her graduation from Lewiston Normal School at age 17. She continued her love of teaching and helping others throughout the years. She acted as a tutor and mentor to immigrants coming to the area and was honored as a long time volunteer at Helpline House where some of her best times were spent helping Kay Nakao and others make soup for Tuesday night dinners for those in need.
Mabel loved politics, books, quilting and taking care of her family. She was a “mom” to many and always ready to help in her quiet but insightful ways. She loved her children’s friends as her own and enjoyed a multitude of treks to the beach, always with an idea of teaching about sea life and preservation of our environment. She was never critical, always positive and an inspiration to all who knew her.
Mabel is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Tarry & Jim Decker, her three grandchildren, Anne Decker Wangthamkua, George Dayton Decker and Mary Hunter Decker, by her three great-grandchildren, Kathryn Smylie Wangthamkua, Benjamin James Wangthamkua, and Ruth Irene Covert Decker, and by her son George Hunter Smylie, II.
The family wishes to thank her long-time physician Gregory Keyes, M.D. and also Frances Fladoos at Island Bay Adult Family Home for their outstanding care and support.
A gathering in honor or Mabel’s life will be held on August 2nd at the home of Tarry and Jim Decker, from 4:00 to 7:00 pm. (annedw91@msn.com for directions)
Memorials are suggested to the Bainbridge Island Fire Department or to Helpline House.
Elroy W. Bohlin, 90, died peacefully July 17th while listening to the waves at the shore of his Hansville, WA home. An avid conservationist and outdoorsman, he devoted his life to our country’s legacy of National Parks and community service.
Born December 14, 1917 Elroy grew up in Ballard, and traveled with his family each summer to Scandia, WA to make camp there. As a young man he and his Ballard buddies hitched rides on trains out of Seattle to hike and climb among the high peaks of the Cascade Mountains. He joined the Civilian Conservation Corps at the age of 16.
Elroy enlisted and served in WWII as a B-24 pilot assigned to the 20th Combat Mapping Squadron. He flew over 40 unescorted reconnaissance missions behind enemy lines in the South Pacific, including a flight over the Japanese mainland.
After the war, Elroy graduated from the University of Washington with a BS in Forestry. He embarked on a 30 year career with the National Park service, where he developed his passion for conservation and the preservation of our national parks. All who encountered Elroy came away with a new understanding and appreciation for the natural world. He was the first Ranger assigned to Kalaloch, WA after the government acquired the oceanfront land for Olympic National Park. He served as Park Ranger at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park (Hilo), and Chief Ranger at Mt McKinley National Park (Denali). He was Supervisor of Mammoth Hot Spring, Yellowstone, Big Hole National Monument, and Gila Cliff Dwellings, New Mexico.
On retirement, Elroy returned to the Pacific Northwest and volunteered his time to the Hansville community, including helping to establish the Orchard Beach Water District. Music was a life-long interest, and he performed as a member of the Windjammers Musical Group (accordion and vocals). He loved to play golf with his friends almost as much as he loved to work in his garden. During this time he donated land at Lofall to the Kitsap Land Trust for a wetlands nature preserve.
He is survived by his loving wife Marcelline and two daughters Janice Ceridwen, Seattle and Debbi Avery, Greenwater.
Words cannot express the special person that was Elroy. He will be missed by all who knew him for the gleam in his eye, humor and positive attitude. Through his words and example he encouraged everyone he met to make the most of each and every day.
A gathering in honor of Elroy’s life will be held at the Hansville Community Center at Buck Lake on August 23rd at 2:00pm.
Robert G. Thompson, Retired Navy Captain, beloved father, grandfather and great-grandfather passed away from complications of diabetes at Harrison Hospital in Bremerton on July 15, 2008. His sons were visiting him at the time of his death. Robert “Bob” Thompson was the only child born to Leonidas and Adeline “Addie” Thompson in Oskaloosa, Iowa on November 27, 1924. He grew up on the Thompson Family Farm and enjoyed playing the drums and listening to jazz. After graduating from Oskaloosa High School in 1943, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was later selected for Officer Candidate School. Robert received his commission in 1945, and subsequently served as a gunnery officer on the U.S.S. Oregon City. Following WW II, he completed post graduate training at the State University of Iowa, School of Dentistry and was appointed to the U.S. Navy Dental Corps in 1951.
Bob met Lt. Mary Elizabeth Glavin, a Navy Nurse at Balboa Hospital in San Diego in 1955 and married March 17, 1956 in San Diego, California. They had 4 loving sons, Peter, Brien, Christian and Kurt. The family was stationed in Key West, Maryland, Norfolk, London and Puget Sound. Bob and Mary enjoyed traveling with the boys throughout Europe in their beloved red, 1965 Volvo. One of his favorite trips was a 2 week African safari in 1970.
In 1975, he was stationed at Bremerton Naval Shipyard where he served as Regional Commander of the Dental Clinic. Robert and Mary built a house on Bainbridge Island where they remained after his retirement in 1983.
The strong work ethic of growing up on a farm was always present with Bob as he and the boys worked on many projects around the house. He would regularly change out of his uniform after arriving home and don work clothes for completing the next task.
Bob was a loyal, hard working man of strong opinions and high standards. He also loved the simple joys of life; gourmet food, taking Mary out to dinner, good conversation around the back yard picnic table, watching the grandchildren and dogs play while discussing politics with friends and family.
Always an excellent provider, Bob lovingly cared for Mary during her bout with Breast cancer and subsequent strokes and heart attacks a decade later.
After Mary’s death in January of 1998, Bob visited their children in San Diego and Arizona and shortly thereafter, suffered his first stroke. Son, Christian, dutifully took care of Bob for last 10 years. The family wishes to thank the Olympic Peninsula Kidney Center for their treatment over the past 4 years.
Robert is survived by his sons, Peter (Annette), Brien, Chris, and Kurt (Christine), 8 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.
His life and legacy will be honored and celebrated at Bangor Chapel, Friday, August 1st at 10 AM. Memorial donations may be made to: www.vitaminangels.org.
Olivia Slanzi Whitlow, passed away on Monday, July 14, 2008 at The Messenger House on Bainbridge Island, Washington at the age of 81. She follows her husband David Whitlow, who passed way last October, and two brothers and six sisters. She leaves her sister Rita of Camano Island, WA and her three children Marc of El Sobrante, CA, John of Bainbridge Is, and Leslie of Kansas City, KN and their families.
She was born to Frank and Luigia Slanzi in Hurley, Wisconsin on March 25, 1927. She led an active life. Growing up, she was often out skiing or ice skating. In high school she was a cheerleader.
After the high school, she left Hurley and joined her sister Doris in Kirkland, WA. She met David Whitlow through the Chancellor’s Club in Seattle.
Her love of skiing and fun lead to many adventures. Some of the Ancient Skiers may remember the fun that was had on the long train trips to Sun Valley, Idaho or the weekend adventures to the Timberline Lodge on Mt. Hood. There was some danger associated with these adventures. In the early 50s, while skiing with two friends at Stevens Pass, they were all buried in an avalanche. Olivia was buried up to her neck. She directed rescuers to her two buddies, and insisted that they concentrate on finding them before digging her out. This sense of adventure was passed along to her children, who have been known to go down the wrong side of more than one mountain.
A good way to see Olivia at her best was to take a trip to Europe with her. On one trip she arrived in Rome with no reservations, drove to the top of the Spanish Steps in the heart of Rome, and found a wonderful room. On another occasion, she found a wonderful hotel on a small Italian island that no American had visited. She loved good food. In Italy there was always time for an afternoon gelato. During these trips, she would visit her relatives in Fucine and Cremona, Italy.
Olivia was a beachcomber. She loved to walk on the beach with her children collecting agates and interesting driftwood. David and she had a second home at Ocean Shores in the 60s, before trading it for a room in Skiers Inc. at Crystal Mt. They retired to a beach on Camano Is., until returning to West Seattle.
Visitation will be held from 10:30 to 11:00 AM on Thursday July 24, 2008 and the funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM at Holyrood Catholic Cemetery Chapel, 205 NE 205th Street, Shoreline, WA 98153.
Gordon H. Anderson, also know as “Gordy” passed away on the morning of Saturday, July 12th, 2008. He had been lovingly cared for at Island Health and Rehab center on Bainbridge Island. He was born in St. Paul, Minnesota on August 3rd, 1927, the son of Theodore and Ida Anderson and lived almost 81 joyful years.
Gordon is survived by his sister, Delores Meihack of West Point, Georgia and his brother Harold Anderson of St. Paul, Minnesota as well as his loving daughter, Wendy Danzig and her husband, Brian, and his grandchildren Jacqueline and Lauren of Bainbridge Island. He is also survived by his son, Michael Anderson and his wife Heidi, and their children Hanna and Jack of Linwood, New Jersey.
At age 17, Gordon entered the navy and a few years later, once out, moved to Havre, Montana to secure a new job as a radio announcer. There, he met his future wife, Irene. They were married 55 years before Irene passed away in the fall of 2007. During half of their married life they resided in Billings, Montana where Gordon enjoyed his days as a traveling salesman for the Yellow Pages. Several of the original crew remained his friends until his passing. In 1975 Gordon and Irene moved to Spokane, Washington, where Gordon owned and operated The River City Tavern near Gonzaga University. It was a lively “hang out” for the college kids and locals alike. He also worked at Betts Oil Company of Spokane for a time prior to retirement. In 2001, they moved to Poulsbo, Washington, to be closer to Wendy, Brian, and their girls.
Gordon will be remembered by all who knew him as an extremely kind, gentle, selfless and gregarious man; as his daughter often said, “He is everything that is good in this world.” He saw life, even its obstacles, in a positive light. He always valued family above all else and adored and was devoted to his grandchildren. He never missed Jacqueline’s soccer games at Bainbridge High School or Lauren’s many ballet recitals through Bainbridge Dance Center. He made people feel important when in his presence. He will be missed greatly.
In lieu of a funeral, Gordy’s life will be celebrated joyously at the home of Wendy and Brian Danzig who wish to extend their gratitude to Lexi and the staff of Island Health and Rehab for their loving, attentive care of Gordon.
Roger Carl Leitz, passed away on Friday, July 11, 2008 at Harrison Hospital in Bremerton, Washington. He was 65 years of age.
On March 14th, 1943 Roger Carl Leitz was born to Carl Leitz and Aimee Louise Leitz in Portland, Oregon. He graduated from Kelso High School in Longview, Washington in 1961. He also holds a Bachelor's degree in Business. In 1963 he joined the Air Force. He later met the love of his life, Chitra, in Thailand. They had two beautiful children together, Terrance and Charene, and a beautiful two month old grand daughter, Kailani. For service information, please contact the family.
Arrangements are through Cook Family Funeral Home.
Glenn C. Waterman, beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2008.
Glenn was a remarkable man who lived a remarkable life. He loved his work, loved to joke, enjoyed his friends, loved playing the piano, and treasured his family.
Born April 8, 1912 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Ralph E. and Cecil Waterman, Glenn discovered his life-long passion for geology as a student at Stanford University obtaining his AB and MA Degrees. He memorably said in his booming voice, “Rocks are the only living thing that speaks to your soul”. He spent 40 years of his life traversing multiple continents and countless cities and towns as he explored the rarefied world of rocks. He retired from the Anaconda Company in 1974.
Glenn married Agnus June (Judy) Renfro on June 1, 1938 and together they raised two sons. Judy was always at Glenn’s side, whether that meant surviving an austere life in a canvas tent in the jungles of British Guiana, living in a small home in the high-altitude deserts of Chile or settling into a comfortable suburban life in California, Utah, Arizona, Ontario and British Columbia, Canada. After surviving 22 moves they settled on Bainbridge Island in 1985. They were married for almost 54 years before Judy passed away in 1992. Glenn missed her deeply and never stopped talking about the love of his life and best friend.
A man of enormous intellect and strong opinion, Glenn learned to use a computer late in life and blessed his family with 12 books filled with family history – all published after age 75. These books provide a clear and lasting insight into the passions, ideas and dreams of our departed friend.
Until only a few years ago, Glenn entertained guests with his incredible ability to play the piano by ear. Taught by his Uncle Glenn in his teens, he could here a song and instantly play it on the piano. In his nineties he began building complicated model boats and shared the finished ships with friends and family.
Glenn loved life. He once told a grandson, “Few things in life retain their thrill as one gets older. Speed, however, never gets old.” As a fitting and final gift to himself, he purchased a two-seat sports car at the age of 95 so he could feel the rush of the cool Northwestern wind across his face. He loved this car, loved to drive the country roads of Bainbridge Island and was eager to share his passenger seat with anyone willing and courageous enough to come along for the ride.
Glenn leaves behind two sons, Glenn (Miriam) and Gary (Karla) Waterman, six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
His life and legacy will be honored and celebrated at a memorial service at 10:00 AM Friday July 18, 2008 at St. Barnabus Episcopal Church, 1187 Wyatt Way NW, Bainbridge Island.
Frances E. Roberts, passed away peacefully at Wyatt House Retirement Center at Bainbridge Island on July 10, 2008, surrounded by loved ones. Frances was born on August 5, 1916 in Elberton, Washington to John and Edna Bishop. She grew up on the family homestead north of Elberton and graduated from Garfield High School. Frances attended Washington State College in Pullman.
Frances met her husband Bill in 1937 and they shared a sweet courtship. Frances quietly came to Poulsbo to meet Bill and they were married on June 30, 1939. They moved to Bainbridge Island in 1946. Frances and Bill bought the Locker building on Winslow Way where they rented out lockers and had a meat-cutting and packing business. Bill apprenticed with a master watchmaker who rented space in their building and gradually through the years with many remodels, the building became Roberts Jeweler. The two worked together to build a successful and respected jewelry business.
She lived at their beloved homestead at Roberts Road on Bainbridge Island from 1949 to January of this year. They worked hard through the years to remodel the old house and tended their vegetable and flower gardens when they weren’t working at the store. Retirement in 1975 brought much pleasure to Frances as she was able to work in her garden every day, often into the dark of the night. She loved sharing her beautiful flowers. People from afar would come by to admire Frances’ gardens.
Frances was very active at Eagle Harbor Congregational Church from 1947 and for many years thereafter. She kept the church hedge trimmed for over 40 years, as well as many other quiet acts of service.
She lived at Wyatt House for her last six months of life. Although her health was declining, she faithfully participated in the activities there. The family would like to thank the staff at Wyatt House for their wonderful hospitality, love and care to her, particularly her last weeks of life.
Being “Grammy” and “Great-Grammy” were probably one of her most cherished and enjoyable times in her life. Frances adored her grandchildren and great- grandbabies and loved every minute of her time spent with them.
Frances is survived by her daughter, Rita Rowe (Adrian), Granddaughter, Elisa Louis (Wayne), Grandson, Mark Rowe (Sarah), Great-Grandchildren, Ava Rowe, Luke Rowe and Zoe Louis; and sister, Pat Burnett. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Frances was preceded in death by her husband Bill Roberts, brothers Paul and John Bishop and sister Regina Burnett.
A memorial service will be at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, July 27th at Eagle Harbor Congregational Church.
Memorial donations may be made to Children’s Hospital, P.O. Box 50020, Mailstop 5200, Seattle, WA. 98145-5020 or to Bainbridge Island Volunteer Firefighters Association, 8895 Madison Ave., Bainbridge Island, WA. 98110.
Arrangements are pending through Cook Family Funeral Home.
Leon "Ace" Parker, was born on September 20, 1914 in the Bronx, New York. He died on July 5, 2008 peacefully in the comfort of his home on Bainbridge Island, surrounded by his wife of 52 years, Mildred, his younger son, Michael and his new best friend, Racey, the Island’s friendliest Golden Retriever. Death was expected as Alzheimer Disease was advancing rapidly.
He graduated from DeWitt Clinton High School in New York City in June, 1932. He was an avid New York Yankee fan since the time of Ruth and Gehrig. However, when he moved to Olympia in 1987 he discovered the mariners with Junior Griffey and A-Rod, and enjoyed the Mariners for the past 21 years.
In 1942, at the age of 28, Ace was drafted into the Army of the United States, 77th Division, 205th Infantry and served in the South Pacific, from Hawaii to Japan. During his three years of service he was wounded twice earning him Two Purple Hearts with an Oak Leaf. He said, “Those were easy, all I had to do was stop a bullet.” He was proudest of his Bronze Star which was awarded to him for bravery and self-sacrifice while under enemy fire. He made two commemorative trips to Guam to celebrate their 40th and 50th anniversaries of liberation from Japan. He was recently honored in Bremerton for his role in liberating the people of Guam.
Leon held a variety of jobs before he became a stock broker in 1953. In 1955, Leon picked Mildred’s name off a prospective client list and called hoping to sell her shares in a new mutual fund. She was quite interested in what he was “selling”. In fact, she says she “knew right away”. Within six months of his first sales call, they were married on December 15, 1955. Mildred did invest some money in the mutual fund Leon was selling, but more importantly she invested her life with him. They proudly announced the birth of their first son, Douglas in April 1957, as “an Extra Dividend.” Their other “dividend” Michael declared himself in March, 1959.
Leon and Mildred moved to Olympia in 1987. Leon enjoyed volunteering at the Senior Center as a cook, preparing meals and as an ambassador, greeting the visitors. They moved again in 2003, to Bainbridge Island, following the move of their son Michael. For the past five years Leon has enjoyed swimming in our community pool, reading the newspaper at the library and shopping at our grocery stores.
Leon was the youngest of five and was preceded in death by his brothers, Barnett, William and Sydney and his sister Ruth.
Leon is survived by Mildred S. Parker , his wife of 52 years, his two sons, Douglas S Parker (and his wife Jeannie) of Westchester, New York and Michael R. Parker, MD of Bainbridge Island. Leon is also survived by seven grandchildren, Valerie, Eric, Alex and Max (from Douglas) and Steven, Julie and David (from Michael).
Leon was a man who cared deeply for his family and country. As a couple, they enjoyed cruising in the Caribbean, Hawaii and Alaska. He loved to cook complex soups and prepare special hors d’oeuvres. He enjoyed watching baseball and the stock market, especially when the Mariners were winning and his stocks were rising. His remains will be inurned in the Columbarium at Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia.
The family feel deeply indebted to Hospice of Kitsap County, the Bainbridge Island Fire Department and Kitsap Transit Access Bus Service.
Michael Wayne Foley, passed away on Thursday, July 3, 2008 at Harrison Hospital in Bremerton, Washington. He was born on March 24, 1949 and was 59 years of age. Arrangements are pending through Cook Family Funeral Home.
Marian D. Miller, passed away on Thursday, July 3, 2008 at Martha and Mary Health Services in Poulsbo, Washington. She was born on September 15, 1930 in Hollywood, California and was 77 years of age.
Marian lived in San Diego prior to her move to the Kitsap area. She is survived by her sons; Brian and Jon and daughter Toni Miller. She also leaves behind her brothers; Douglas Morton and William Morton. Marian was preceded in death by her husband D.K. Miller (Jerry) in 1996.
No services will be held. Memorial contributions can be made to Martha and Mary Health Services.
To browse
the obituaries enter a page number below and click Go or use the Next or
Back links.
Ora I. Brumbelow, passed away on Tuesday, August 19, 2008 at Martha and Mary Health Care in Poulsbo, Washington. She was born on July 22, 1911 in DeLeon, Texas and was 97 years of age. Inurnment will take place at Restlawn Memory Gardens Cemetery in Salem, Oregon. Arrangements entrusted to Cook Family Funeral Home.
Walter D. McKerchar, died on Tuesday, August 12, 2008 at Harrison Hospital in Bremerton, Washington. Walt was born in Brooklyn, New York on September 8th 1929.
Carmelita Faye Seachord, "Candi", passed away suddenly on Sunday, August 10, 2008 at Harrison Hospital in Bremerton, Washington. She was born on April 29, 1949 in Tonasket, Washington to Joseph Cornelius Ives and Geneva Vivian Jones Ives. She was 59 years of age.
Duane Francis Pape, Jr., "Wayne", passed away on Thursday, August 7, 2008 in a car accident in Kingston, Washington. He was born on November 22, 1963 in Portland, Oregon and was 44 years of age.
John Carroll Herber, passed away peacefully after a prolonged battle with Parkinson’s disease on Monday, August 4, 2008, in his wife’s arms and surrounded by family. His life was one punctuated with success: most significantly in his resolve to remain at home with Annette, the love of his life, until his end despite his long-term debilitative illness.
Patricia Marion Foster, of Bainbridge Island passed away on July 29, 2008 after a long illness. She died peacefully at home surrounded by her family.
Mabel Ruth Smylie, age 91, died on Tuesday, July 22 on Bainbridge Island. She was born in Severy, Kansas on August 2, 1916, four years before women could vote. She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Mary Finchum, by her four siblings, Lily, Thena, Dayton, and Jean, and her former spouses, George Hunter Smylie and Gene Earl Smylie. 
Elroy W. Bohlin, 90, died peacefully July 17th while listening to the waves at the shore of his Hansville, WA home. An avid conservationist and outdoorsman, he devoted his life to our country’s legacy of National Parks and community service. 
Olivia Slanzi Whitlow, passed away on Monday, July 14, 2008 at The Messenger House on Bainbridge Island, Washington at the age of 81. She follows her husband David Whitlow, who passed way last October, and two brothers and six sisters. She leaves her sister Rita of Camano Island, WA and her three children Marc of El Sobrante, CA, John of Bainbridge Is, and Leslie of Kansas City, KN and their families. 
Gordon H. Anderson, also know as “Gordy” passed away on the morning of Saturday, July 12th, 2008. He had been lovingly cared for at Island Health and Rehab center on Bainbridge Island. He was born in St. Paul, Minnesota on August 3rd, 1927, the son of Theodore and Ida Anderson and lived almost 81 joyful years.
for the Yellow Pages. Several of the original crew remained his friends until his passing. In 1975 Gordon and Irene moved to Spokane, Washington, where Gordon owned and operated The River City Tavern near Gonzaga University. It was a lively “hang out” for the college kids and locals alike. He also worked at Betts Oil Company of Spokane for a time prior to retirement. In 2001, they moved to Poulsbo, Washington, to be closer to Wendy, Brian, and their girls. 
Roger Carl Leitz, passed away on Friday, July 11, 2008 at Harrison Hospital in Bremerton, Washington. He was 65 years of age.
Glenn C. Waterman, beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2008.
Frances E. Roberts, passed away peacefully at Wyatt House Retirement Center at Bainbridge Island on July 10, 2008, surrounded by loved ones. Frances was born on August 5, 1916 in Elberton, Washington to John and Edna Bishop. She grew up on the family homestead north of Elberton and graduated from Garfield High School. Frances attended Washington State College in Pullman. 
Leon "Ace" Parker, was born on September 20, 1914 in the Bronx, New York. He died on July 5, 2008 peacefully in the comfort of his home on Bainbridge Island, surrounded by his wife of 52 years, Mildred, his younger son, Michael and his new best friend, Racey, the Island’s friendliest Golden Retriever. Death was expected as Alzheimer Disease was advancing rapidly.
Marian D. Miller, passed away on Thursday, July 3, 2008 at Martha and Mary Health Services in Poulsbo, Washington. She was born on September 15, 1930 in Hollywood, California and was 77 years of age.