Dorothy Elizabeth Anderson's Obituary
Dorothy (Debbie) Elizabeth Anderson, passed away April 26th, 2012, in Tacoma, surrounded by loving family.
She was born to Dr. Roy and Marie Bowell on February 22, 1924 in Bonner's Ferry, Idaho, the younger of two girls. As a little girl, she would accompany her father and assist him on his rounds much like a -Å"candy striper-. Her deep sense of compassion and service to others began at a very early age.
Debbie attended Bonner's Ferry High School where she played alto saxophone for the marching band, was valedictorian and met her future husband. She attended the University of Idaho, majored in Home Economics, and joined Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. She graduated in 1946 and married LeRoy Anderson on June 7, 1946. The couple moved to Aberdeen, WA in 1948 then to Lakewood, WA in 1950 where they raised their family.
Debbie believed strongly in continuing education, taught sewing at Clover Park Voc. Tech, also taught piano lessons in her home and volunteered with the Literacy program. She instilled in her children a great love for books and the magic which they held. She was a founding member of P.E.O. Chapter DV in Lakewood and an active member of The Little Church on the Prairie, working for the church library, the prayer tree and FISH program that provided transportation for others. She was all about giving.
Debbie loved to sew and won numerous awards for her tailoring and quilting. She was out in the garden as much as possible creating beautiful flowers with the -Å"green thumb- inherited from her father. She also took courses in landscape design and Ikebana floral arranging. She loved rocks and stones and used them as focal points. Some of her favorite gifts she received were rocks from far away places. She baked the most wonderful pastries and desserts and was always eager to share her recipes. Music was an integral part of Debbie. She passed on her love of the outdoors, art, music and dance to all her daughters. She had a wonderful sense of humor, an adventurous spirit and always looked forward to accomplishing new things.
Debbie is survived by her husband LeRoy Anderson; four daughters: Darice Anderson, Lyris Marie and husband Harry Steiner, Lael Turnbow and husband Larry Turnbow, and Dayna Anderson. She is also survived by her sister Louise Rathbun, five grandchildren, six great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Debbie's life will be held at The Little Church on the Prairie June 1st, 2:00 p.m.
In memory of Debbie, donations may be made to the Lakewood P.E.O. Chapter DV Program for Continuing Education at www.peointernational.org. There will also be P.E.O. Sisters at the service to help with any questions.
-Å"You are kindness, light and love Little Mom, and we will miss you so.-
Arrangements by Mountain View Funeral Home.
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