Phyllis A. Wakefield

Phyllis Wakefield, 89, a long time resident of Beaverton, passed away February 25, 2014, surrounded by her family. Phyllis was born October 22, 1924 in Lothair, Montana. She was the eighth of nine children born to Claude and Ella Ames, on the family ranch in Montana. Growing up as part of a larger family in rural Montana, Phyllis' childhood provided the back drop for several short stories she wrote describing the adventures and mischief she and her siblings shared. These stories were captured in a self published book titled "I Remember When", which she shared with her family.

When Phyllis was 13, the family moved to Salem Oregon, where she attended Salem High School and graduated valedictorian. Phyllis held several jobs in her community and it was at one of those jobs where she met her future husband. Phyllis was at work one day when Charles L. Wakefield II, an Army supply sergeant stationed at Camp Adair nearby, came in to have his uniforms cleaned. They fell in love and married soon thereafter.

Their first son, Charles L. Wakefield III was born in 1943, followed by Timothy Mark Wakefield in 1947. As a young wife and mother, Phyllis spent those early years working and raising her sons. Those were difficult years, especially when her husband was away in Europe during WWII.

Sadly, their marriage ended and Phyllis moved to Portland and made a home here for her and her sons. In 1956 she took a job at Leupold & Stevens in Portland where she rose to credit manager. She was proud to have worked there for over 30 years. Her position as credit manager afforded her the opportunity to travel extensively including trips to China, Germany, and 49 of the 50 states. She missed Delaware.

Upon her retirement, Phyllis enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, gardening, reading and working on her family genealogy. She also was a member of St. Cecilia Catholic church in Beaverton and drew great comfort and joy in the time she spent attending services there. In addition, she was a proud member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, being a direct descendant of Roger Toothaker.

Despite several health issues and declining eye sight, Phyllis remained independent, living in her own home and even until her death she worked out twice a week with a trainer at 24 Hour Fitness. A fact she was very proud of.

Phyllis is survived by her two sons, Charles Louis Wakefield III and Timothy Mark Wakefield, daughter-in-law Donna of Portland. She also had four grandchildren: Shannon, Sean, Ashley, and Justin along with four great-grandchildren, all which she was very proud of. Also surviving Phyllis is her brother Jim Ames and sister-in-law Delores of Canby, Oregon. She had several nieces and nephews.

Phyllis will be remembered for her sense of humor and optimism even when faced with several health challenges. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

A celebration of her life will be held Friday, March 7th at Skylline Memorial Gardens in Portland. Remembrances may be made to: Friendly House, 2617 NW Savier, Portland, Oregon, 97210.