Freda Echtle

Obituary Freda Bernice Echtle Freda, the second of seven siblings, was born in Rainier, Washington on July 15, 1923. She spent her formative years on the family farm in Yelm, Washington. Growing up, her most memorable chore was bringing the cows back from the oak grove to the barn each evening with her sister, Marian. After graduating from Yelm High school in 1941, she commuted with her sister, Juanita; and her father, George to the Naval Shipyard, working there in support of World War II. After the war, Freda continued working for the US Government at Madigan Hospital as an Administrative Assistant. She spent the next forty years at Madigan, ultimately becoming the assistant to the Chief of Surgery. After retirement she remained in western Washington, with the exception of five years spent in Las Vegas, living with and helping a dear friend until her death. Returning to Washington at that time, she lived with her brother George in Lakewood, Washington, until his death; at which time she moved in with her niece, Jackie Tebow for the next 9 years in Sumner, Washington. Throughout her life Freda enjoyed all manner of card games, especially pinochle, canasta, and various versions of solitaire. She also enjoyed the local bingo games and trips to the casino for 21 (Black Jack). Her friends were important to her, many of whom were members of YLI (Young Ladies Institute) as she was a member for over forty years. She was also an avid reader and a film buff, enjoying various genres of books and films. Freda is survived by two brothers, Jim and Ed Echtle; two nieces, Deana Pearsall and Jackie Tebow; three nephews, Ed, Jim, and Dave Echtle; seven great nephews and four great nieces. Freda is loved and she will be missed by her family and friends. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 12, 2014 at 12:00pm at St. John Bosco Catholic Church in Lakewood. The Rosary will be recited at 11:30am prior to Mass. All are welcome to attend a luncheon after Mass in the parish hall. Interment at Calvary Cemetery, Tumwater, WA. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.