Denise Marie Stolen Rodriguez Vernon

Obituary Denise Marie Stolen Rodriguez Vernon Denise was born on June 17, 1951 in Tacoma, Washington and she passed away after a long illness on March 10, 2015 in Puyallup, Washington. She was preceded in death by her parents, John S. and Helen (Kitty) Stolen. Denise is survived by her daughter, Desiree Rodriguez; ex-husband, Juan Rodriguez; sister, LuAnn (Ken)Yadon; and numerous nieces and nephews. Denise worked for 35 years for the United States Army and Air Force as a civilian employee. She was trained in and excelled at aircraft maintenance back in the day when women were mostly considered suitable for secretarial positions. The last several years were spent in Logistics, but she retired before she was ready due to her illness. Denise was a hard headed, strong willed, big hearted woman. She always had time to listen even though she had a million things going on. If you approached her with a work or personal problem, you felt like you were her top priority. She might not tell you what you wanted to hear, but focused on what you needed to hear. Many a recalcitrant airman admitted to being re-directed with a well-timed intervention from Denise. Denise was an Eagles member and she enjoyed spending time with the group at Aerie # 3563 in Spanaway, raising funds for charity, playing poker and catching up with everyone. She also enjoyed fishing and hunting with pals. She was always happy when she was around water, either fishing or swimming. A Rosary will be recited on Saturday, March 28, 2015 at 1:30pm at the Celebration of Life Center at Mt. View Funeral Home on Steilacoom Blvd, followed immediately by a Memorial Service. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.