Lillian Kemph

She was born in St.Louis, Missouri, the youngest of three children, on March 9, 1932. Lillian graduated from Beaumont High School in 1949 and then received her AA Degree from Harris College in 1951. She joined the Army Reserves as an X-ray Technician and worked at St. Paul Hospital. Lillian met her future husband, Donald Kemph, at Fort Lawton. They were introduced by friends and married in 1956 in Seattle, Washington. She became a Domestic Engineer. They later moved to Olympia, Washington. Their six children were born in Seattle and reared in Olympia.

Lillian enjoyed the company of her friends and family. She had a great laugh and a wonderful sense of humor. She also enjoyed bowling, playing cards, gardening, sewing and reading. Lillian and Donald also liked to travel.

Lillian was a member of St. Brendan's Parish in Bothell, Washington. She was an active member in the community organizations throughout her lifetime. At St. Brendan's she was a member of the Just Faith group. Up until the time of her death she was working as a volunteer reading tutor at Hilltop Elementary and swam four days per week at the gym. In Olympia at St. Michael's she was involved with the Social Action Committee and Pregnancy Aid and was active in the St. Michael's Parish Southside Community, and then later the St. Michael's Parish Westside Community. Lillian also worked with the Jaycees and was a Girl Scout Leader.

Donald, her husband of 53 years, preceded her in death in 2009. Lillian is survived by her children, Martha McCorkhill (Gregg), Charles, Matt (Lisa), Larry, Donna Schatzer (Philip) and Thomas (Carol); ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her nieces, Sr. Jeannine Newman and margaret Harvey with whom she grew up; and many other nieces, nephews and cousins. Lillian had the gift of friends who became part of her family. Whether you knew her for a short time or a long time you felt a part of her family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Lillian's name may be made to St. Brendan Catholic Church, 10051 NE 195th St. Bothell, WA 98011.