Ragni Osterberg

Ragni Bernice Osterberg, born May 21, 1917, went home on December 22, 2021 after 104 years on this Earth.

Born one of two girls in Tacoma, WA to Carl and Borchild Evensen, Ragni lived a tremendous life. The last 22 years she lived at the Norse Home in Seattle making many friends and participating in their activities including being a lead character in countless plays the Norse Home put on.

Ragni graduated from Bainbridge Island High School in 1935. In 1939 after a short courtship, she married Vernon Osterberg, a Naval Officer.

On December 7, 1941 Ragni saw Japanese planes approaching before the bombs began falling. Vernon, who was assigned to the USS Arizona but off duty at the time, rushed to duty. She did not hear from him for 2 weeks.

When Vernon finally called, he was on the ship Tennessee in Maui. Per the Navy, Maui was too dangerous a destination for Ragni and their young daughter Janice. Ragni was advised to return to Seattle. Other military destinations include Boston, Long Beach, CA and San Diego.

After Military life Ragni and Vernon resided in Western WA including Seattle, Sultan and Woodinville.

Son Stephen was born in 1947.

Vernon passed in 1973 at 58 years old.

Later in life Ragni met Horace Heath that led to a 16-year relationship filled with great travels until his passing in 1997. Together they saw the U.S., as well as Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Alaska, Canada and other remote islands. These travels provided fulfillment and lifelong memories she talked about often.

She was an excellent cook making Holiday and other family gatherings a tremendous treat for all. Leg of Lamb, Ham, Turkey and Fattigmann cookies are a few of her delicious cooking/baking favorites.

Ragni is preceded in death by her parents, sister Ingrid, daughter Janice, granddaughter Susan, husband Vernon and dear friend Horace.

She is survived by her son Stephen, grandson Tim (Tiffany) and great-grandchildren Kelcy and Garth, in addition to many special family members including Butch, George, Dave and Doreen. We all feel so lucky to have been part of her life.

There will be a Springtime family service at Seabold Cemetery.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Cook Family Funeral Home of Bainbridge Island.