Ellen Blackshaw's Obituary
Ellen O. Blackshaw 8/14/1914 - 2/11/2012 Ellen was born in Tyson, ND, the second of nine children born to Rev. Ira J. and Alice McFarland. Ellen, 97, was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, J. Paul Blackshaw, her parents, and seven of her eight siblings. She is survived by her youngest brother, Rodney McFarland (Linda) of Des Moines, WA, daughter Janet Erickson (Dean) of Hawaii, Janet's sons Lance, Jon and Todd Kleiven, daughters Linda and Rebecca Blackshaw of Tacoma, and numerous nieces and nephews. Ellen was a graduate of Orting High School, where she was Senior Class President, was on the track team (hurdles), and on the debate team. She was also a graduate of the Deaconess Hospital School of Nursing, Spokane, WA, and worked as an RN in Pullman, Yakima, and Tacoma. She discovered her talent for treating young children at Mary Bridge Children's Hospital, and her compassion for unwed mothers at the Faith Home, Tacoma. Ellen was a caring, generous and witty lady who enjoyed sewing and crafts, fashion, home decorating, event planning, gardening, camping with the family, and traveling. Ellen and he husband were active members of Calvary United Methodist Church, where Ellen was on the church board and sang in the choir. Ellen's life was a testament to the Lord's faithfulness. Ellen will join her husband in burial at Mountain View Memorial Park. A memorial service in her honor is being planned; the time and location will be announced.
Arrangements by Mountain View Funeral Home.
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