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Burna Holbrook Obituary

Burna Jean "Cleo" Holbrook

Burna Jean "Cleo" Holbrook died Feb. 17, 2011 at the family home in Olympia.
She was born in Walla Walla, WA to Jean and Aaron Sterling and raised by her mother and stepfather, Ralph Dunker. She attended schools throughout Western Washington, graduated from Olympia High School in 1940 and attended business college in Seattle.
She married Arthur M. Holbrook Jr. of Olympia in 1943. Cleo was a homemaker and she and Art raised four children in Seattle and Olympia. She was employed during many sessions of the Legislature by the state Senate. She was also a sales agent for Coldwell Banker Realty fo several years.
Cleo was actively involved in the St. Peter Hospital Auxiliary, the Children's Hospital and the American Cancer Society. She was a member of the Dana Egert Orthopedic Guild and the Olympia Country and Golf Club. She was an enthusiastic golfer, loved to play duplicate and party bridge and delighted family and friends with her culinary skills. The Holbrooks traveled extensively during their senior years.
She is survived by her husband, Arthur M. Holbrook Jr., a son Arthur M. Holbrook III of Olympia (Patricia), three daughters, Janet Holbrook, in route to South Africa (Tom), Jean Holbrook of Olympia and Judy Ware of Boulder, CO, (John), six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
The family suggests any memorials be made to the Children's Hospital or a favorite charity. There will be a celebration of Cleo's life 1:00 p.m., Feb 26, at the Olympia Country and Golf Club.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Olympian on Feb. 20, 2011.

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4 Entries

Ruth Moss

February 21, 2011

I've only known Cleo for a short time, but even in her last years I could see in her eyes the glimmer of all the years that had come before. She was fabulously one of the most precious and inspiring women I have ever met . . . I took something magical away from every encounter ! Peace & Love to all who loved her.

Lynda Benak

February 21, 2011

We are so enriched to have known Cleo and have always been inspired by her impassioned presence and kindness. She has imparted unconditional love for one dear to me - and a kindness and compassion that is ever lasting. Gods bless you Cleo - love to Art and family. Lyn

February 20, 2011

We are sorry to hear of Cleo's passing. We always had so much fun at the beach house. Art: You and Cleo were so much support to Mom in Arizona when Dad was so ill. I will never forget the love you shared with us. Mom is on vacation so she will miss the celebration of life, but please know you are in her thoughts. Sandi "Kilde" Leighton

Mark Lovrien

February 20, 2011

Sorry for your loss.

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