Winnifred Bartlett

Obituary Winnifred Bartlett was born on December 16, 1929 in Devils Lake, North Dakota to Alexander and Mary Pearl Smith. She passed away on October 26th, 2017 in Tacoma after a life well lived. Winnie moved from North Dakota when, her older sister, Delia Markland sent for her to be in her wedding and convinced her to stay. She agreed and got a job working at Buffelen Woodworking. Winnie met the love of her life, Robert Bartlett and they married in November 1951. They purchased a home in Ruston where they lived for over 60 years. After raising her children, she went back to work at Whittier Elementary as a lunchroom lady until she retired. Throughout her life, Winnie was a devout Catholic and enjoyed volunteering with the annual rummage sale and other events. Her dedication to helping others led to a lifetime of valuable friends through her faith. She loved traveling, especially the many trips to Reno, a Southern Caribbean cruise, many destinations through the VFW and of course, to Yuma, Az. She crocheted for many years and was always ready for a competitive card game. Winnie was proceeded in death by her husband, Robert Bartlett; parents - Alexander and Mary Smith; brothers and sisters; Howard, Frances, Eddie, Sister Cecilia, Ambrose & Delia. She is survived by her children; Dale, Bryan (Verna), Cindy (Ray) Kerr and Bobbie (Trevor) Thornsley; as well as brothers and sisters; Alfie, Alice, Larry (Teresa) and Julie. Grandchildren include Samantha (Jonathan) Kimm, Megan (Kevin) Harris, Austin Kerr, Christopher and Mathew Thornsley. Being "nanny" to all of her grandchildren was the sparkle in her eye. She lived a long life and will be dearly missed by her family and friends. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, November 3rd at 11am at Holy Cross Church 5510 North 44th Street in Tacoma. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Franciscan Hospice Services 2901 Bridgeport Way W in University Place, WA 98466 253-534-7000 or 800-338-8305. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home