Jeanne Brodsack

Obituary Jeanne M. (Arnold) Brodsack, born in Manson Iowa, died peacefully January 25, 2009 in Gig Harbor, WA. The oldest of 11 children, she was raised and educated in Iowa and received her nursing diploma at Mercy Hospital School of Nursing in Fort Dodge, Iowa. She moved to Washington State with her husband Don following his military deployment there during WWII. Jeanne and Don settled for stretches in both Tacoma and Everett before transitioning to their "Funny Farm" home on the Key Peninsula in the late 60's. As a young mother, Jeanne was involved in her children's activities while pursing her nursing career at Tacoma General Hospital, Everett General Hospital and Everett Providence Hospital. She completed her Bachelor's Degree in nursing and Master's in communications at University of Washington. Subsequently, she worked for the Snohomish Health District, Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department, Clinical Research Centers at Western State Hospital and as nursing home administrator at Jefferson House in Tacoma. Jeanne was among the first group completing their certification as nurse practitioner at the UW in the early 70's. Perhaps her greatest professional satisfaction was as primary founder of the non-profit Key Peninsula Health Clinic to provide health services to the medically under-served KP population. She was a community volunteer and organizer as well as a hands-on healthcare provider for her community. Jeanne was preceded in death by her husband Don and infant daughter Margaret Mary. She is survived by her 6 children and their spouses, 5 brothers, 2 sisters, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family as well as friends in the community. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, January 31, 2009 10:00 am at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Gig Harbor. Viewing will be all day Friday at the funeral home. The family suggests memorial donations may be made to Key Peninsula Community Services, PO Box 392, Lakebay, WA 98349. Jeannes family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped keep Mom safe, comfortable and full of life over the past 2+ years; including the dedicated Franciscan Hospice team, especially Suzanne, Rob & Kerry; Deb, Mom's caregiver until July of last year; the caring staff at Sound Vista Village; and her good friend and neighbor, Donn.