Lois Nelson

Born in Bellingham, Washington Lois was raised on a dairy farm near Mt. Baker. The family moved to Seattle in the late 1930's. Lois graduated from Seattle's Lincoln High School in 1939, where she played baseball and basketball.

During WWII Lois served in the Woman Marines. She was based at El Toro in Southern California, achieving the rank of Corporal. Lois remained active in the Woman's Marine Association until her death.

Returning to Seattle following her discharge, Lois attended Seattle University and later worked at the Naval Supply Depot at Pier 91 in Seattle, where she met her husband Al. They married in 1951, built a home on Queen Anne Hill, raised their two children and lived there until Al's death in 2011.

The family enjoyed summer vacations at Lake Chelan and ski trips around the northwest. Lois was both a Girl Scout leader and Cub Scout den mother, and spent many years with Al as a chaperone on Lake City Elks ski buses.

Lois returned to the work force when the children were older, spending a number of years working at the King County Election Department, and later as an administrative assistant at the Federal Health and Human Services Department.

After retirement, Lois and Al enjoyed many trips together to places around the globe. Their social calendar was filled with ballroom dancing as members of several dance clubs. Lois volunteered at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center working in their charitable giving department for more than 20 years. Lois stayed active swimming well into her 80's and took her daily walks, yoga and Zumba classes until her passing.

Preceded in death by her husband Al, her brother Lloyd and sister Kay, Lois is survived by her daughter Linda Cagley (Lon), son Larry (Carol), grandsons Colin and Sean Cagley, and great-granddaughter Charlotte.

The family thanks the staff at Merrill Gardens Kirkland, Careforce and Evergreen Hospice for their compassion and kindness.

At her request a private family service will be held.

Remembrances may be made to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center.

Words of comfort may be expressed for Lois Nelson's family by clicking on the guestbook link to the right.