RHODA HAZEL CLAASSEN LINDSTROM

Rhoda Hazel Claassen Lindstrom of Shelter Bay died Sunday, April 8th, 2018 at Island Hospital following a battle with heart failure. She was 95. Rhoda was born December 26, 1922, in Akron, Ohio to Arthur and Letha Claassen.

In 1942 she married Edwin Eugene Lindstrom in Tacoma. She was married to Edwin Gene for 66 years. In 1985 Rhoda and Gene built their home in Shelter Bay where they enjoyed boating, fishing, RVing and camping.

Most of Rhoda’s career was in Special Education. She worked at Renton Hospital, delivery and nursery, Lake City Fircrest TB ward, Lake Washington School in Kirkland, Special Education, New Orleans taking the Census and Special Education, Garden Grove, California, Farmers and Merchants Bank, switchboard, 10 key operator and bank receipts, State Hospital in Costa Mesa, California, Boys Ward psychiatric technician.

At 50 years old she received a two-year degree at Seattle Community College to teach the deaf. Both of her parents were deaf from childhood disease. Rhoda belonged to the La Conner United Methodist Church. She was an excellent seamstress, reader and writer. She supported the Boys & Girls Club, Senior Center and Chamber of Commerce. She loved her family, friends and La Conner Retirement Inn.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Bud. Rhoda is survived by her sister Annalee Buckmaster. Rhoda’s cousins: David Nelson and Mary Bell. Rhoda’s children: Linda Sarratt, Candice Tjersland, Douglas Lindstrom and David Lindstrom. She also leaves five grandchildren: Kim Pedroza and her husband Rene, Lori LaBrie, Naomi Cary and Jason and Michael Conner; six great-grandchilden: Alicia and Candice Pedroza, Jayme and Tyler LaBrie and Samantha and Tommy Carey.

A celebration of Rhoda’s life was held April 28th, 2018.

The family suggests that in lieu of flowers donations be made in Rhoda’s name to the La Conner Braves Club or to the La Conner United Methodist Church.

Arrangements are under the care of Hawthorne Funeral home, Mount Vernon.