Irene I. Davison

Irene Isabelle Davison, 96, passed away at her Rochester home on Wednesday, August 10, 2011. She was born in Olympia on July 23, 1915, the daughter of Earl J. and Mary Leage (Gilkey). After graduating from Highline High School, Irene attended Dietz Business College, and became a secretary with the Washington State Parole Board. Irene married the love of her life, John W. Davison, Jr., in Olympia on February 12, 1942, and moved to Oakland, California to be near John when his Navy ship was in port. When the war ended, the couple moved back to Olympia, built a home, and had two children. John passed away in 2003 after a car accident with a drunk driver.

Irene was accomplished at needlecrafts and sewing, and was a renowned cook. She loved the outdoors, including swimming, clam digging, camping, and going on hunting trips with John. Irene was an avid bowler, starting with the Brewery Wives league in the 1960s. She had a 188 average and earned numerous trophies every year. Irene loved gardening and later worked for commercial greenhouses. She became a Master Gardener and volunteered with Dirt Works, where she raised tomatoes and basil. She raised fuchsias (80 varieties) and tomatoes (40 varieties) at her home greenhouse. Irene belonged to the Friendly Flower garden club, American Fuchsia Society, VFW auxiliary, and enjoyed visiting the Farmer's Market. Most of all, Irene enjoyed being with her family and activities with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She will be greatly missed.

Irene is survived by her children, John W. Davison III (Joy) of Hansville, Washington; Joan M. Kross (Paul) of Olympia; grandchildren, Dianna M. Lance (Jim) of Rochester; Steven J. Kross (Berneta) of Olympia; Ananda Ybarra (Adam) of California; and nine great-grandchildren.