Geraldine Bird Oleson

Geraldine (Gerry) Oleson left us on Friday, October 3, 2014. She leaves behind her two sons, Mike (Diana) and Craig, as well as host of friends and people who cared deeply for her. Gerry, with her beloved dog Babette, was a fixture in Edmonds. They could be seen everywhere. She lived as she wanted to, in her own home and independently. Gerry moved to Edmonds in 1963 with her husband Craig (an attorney for the State of Washington). She worked for years at the American National Bank in Edmonds, and while there made many lasting friendships. When Craig passed away in 1974, she continued on in her home while her sons attended universities in Seattle and Ellensburg. She was proud of all she was able to accomplish, but was extraordinarily humble in taking credit for being a loving and supportive wife, mother and friend. Gerry never has a bad word to say about anybody, and while private and unassuming, she was an inspirational force to all who knew and loved her. Gerrys passing marks another loss to The Greatest Generation. Gerry was born in Seattle on November 16, 1921, the youngest of Roy and Silvia Birds three children. She, with her brother Joe and sister Helen, endured the hardships of The Great Depression, World War II and all things following. Through it all, she never had a complaint and was grateful for any kindness ever offered. Gerry graduated from Holy Names Academys class of 1939. During the war she worked at a VA Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. She later moved back to be with her parents in Kingston, Washington, where she met a young attorney who would become her husband. Their two sons were the source of her greatest pride. She was at all times a mother who loved her family. Gerry loved her dogs and had many over the years she lived in Edmonds. She could be seen daily, rain or shine, walking her current companion. She also loved to work in her yard, knit, make clothes, hook rugs, embroider and play her piano. Her greatest joy came from being with her friends and doing simple everyday things like going to the store. To say that Gerrys presence will be missed is not even scratching the surface. She was an inspirational force, a kind heart, a willing hand and most of all a best friend to all who knew and loved her. We will be celebrating Gerrys life on what would have been her 93 rd birthday, Sunday, November 16, at 5:00 pm in the Chrysanthemum Hall at the Edmonds Conference Center located on 201 Fourth Avenue North. lease join us as we honor our wonderful mom and friend.