She was born June 8, 1927 in Seattle, Washington to Anthony and Magdalen Harris. She grew up during World War II and helped her parents and sister entertain dozens of soldiers that were far from home, with home cooked meals and laughter.
She married the love of her life, Frank Louis Stariha, on April 16, 1955. Laurie and Frank quickly started their family of six children, that led to all the adventures of raising a big family.
Laurie was a great cook and baker and served up comfort foods for family, friends, and those in need. She loved sewing and all crafts and shared her handmade creations freely. Her hands were always busy. She worked at a fabric store for many years and shared her knowledge and creative talents with many customers along the way.
Laurie loved people and people loved her and she maintained many friendships. The one all of us kids knew well was her “Lunch Bunch” friends, Eileen Reeves and Sally Dammier, who met weekly to have a meal together. Laurie continued those lunches until she could not drive any longer.
Laurie was a dedicated mother first and foremost. She treasured her children and embraced every moment with them. Laurie’s kids all know her best for her winning smile that could melt your heart, her kindness, compassion, love for her Catholic faith, generosity, and love of travel. Her many travels included trips to Europe, Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, and Disney World and her last trip was an airplane ride near Mt. Rainier, with her daughter Geralyn as her pilot, for her 90th birthday. She even got to fly the plane!
Laurie taught all her six kids and her grandchildren how to be good people, have strong values and to be kind. She was the best Mom anyone could hope for and she is loved fiercely.
Laurie was preceded in death by her beloved husband Frank.
Laurie is survived by her sister Helen Snider; her children - Mark Stariha (Laurie), Geralyn Stonack (Bob), Donald Stariha (Beth), Gary Stariha (Pam), Paul Stariha (Tina), Lisa Stariha (Ken); grandchildren Taylor Stonack, Emily Rose (Justin), Matthew Stariha (Megan), Alissa Davis (Nick), Nicolé Stariha, David Stariha, Brynna Stariha, Alexandria Stariha, and Jonathan Stariha (Alexa); and great grandchildren Anamia Rose and Mason Rose (and a great grandson and great granddaughter on the way).
In lieu of flowers, Memoriams/Donations can be made to Taylor Adult Family Home, c/o Sharon Taylor 639 S 150th St, Burien WA, 98148 or St. Bernadette’s Church, 1028 SW 128th St, Seattle, WA 98146.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.8.18