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Kay Engel Obituary
Kay Young Engel passed away peacefully the evening of March 14, 2011 at her home in Tumwater, WA. Kay was born Kathryn Ruth Young on November 30, 1923 in Des Moines, IA to Everett Lewis (Lewie) Young and Ruth Rachel MacRae Young.
Kay attended Cotty College in Nevada, MO and, in 1944 she enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. Kay graduated from Pepperdine University, Los Angeles, CA earning her B.A. and Master's degree. She taught school in Iowa and California.
In 1952 Kay married Richard (Dick) Engel and they had 3 children, Richard, Rob and Ruthie. Kay and Dick later divorced. She retired in 1977 and moved to Colorado to operate her own business until 1981 when she moved to Washington State.
Kay was an inspiration to many and she loved her life and those in it. Her smile was welcoming and incandescent.
Kay was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother-inlaw, Richard (Dick) Coolidge. She is survived by her sister, Blanchie Coolidge, Overland Park., KS; her children, Richard (Cindy) Engel, Chehalis, WA, Rob Engel, Huntington Beach, CA. and Ruthie (Gary) Holt, Chehalis, WA. Kay is also survived by 9 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A celebration of Kay's life will be held on Saturday April 2, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at the Olympia Unitarian Universalist Congregation at 2300 East End St NW, Olympia. A potluck reception will immediately follow. The family is requesting donations be sent in Kay's memory to Out of the Woods Shelter, OUUC, 2300 East End St NW, Olympia, WA 98502 or to the charity or cause of your choice. Please be sure to wear your brightest colors and come join us as we join together to share memories and marvel at the legacy of this amazing woman.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kay Engel
Sponsored by "Ricky" H. .
Catherine Amos
June 16, 2011
I knew Kay for 30 years. I hope I'm not too late to send this message to anyone still reading this. Especially you Ruthie. Kay was such an important person in my life. More than anything she was a cheerleader...bright, cheerful, encouraging. Thanks Kay, and thanks for sharing yourself with the rest of us. My birthdays will never be the same.
Nancy LaPointe
April 2, 2011
Kay was an inspiration, she was always challenging the status quo, not accepting information at face value. She was a life long learner, teacher, and guide. By her example I'm driven to be involved in my community, to support causes, and question the status quo. Thank you Kay, for the gift for your friendship. We were blessed to be part of your life.
Don Martin
April 1, 2011
I think Kay was on the original Board of Directors of Stonewall Youth--at least she was already there when I joined the board a couple of years later. I always thought of her and me as the 'Stonewall elders.' She was a wonderful woman who touched a lot of folks of all ages and walks of life and who was committed to the community. I will miss her beaming smile.
Peggy
April 1, 2011
I was just thinking about Kay a few weeks ago. I have such wonderful memories of Kay. I always looked forward to seeing her smile and her positive attitude was infectious (and I frequently needed it!). I am thankful for the times I spent with her.
March 28, 2011
Who will bring my mom piping hot homemade soup when she is ill? And who will protect the bees! Good-bye to a sweet, kind and generous human being. My condolences Ruthie, to you and the entire family.
Love from the Great White North. Terry's daughter, Joyce.
Rick "Ricky" Harvey
March 28, 2011
Kay came into my life 29 years ago on Tuesday, February 9, 1992 at 0900. We were instant friends. And, she eventually became my second Mom. She helped me through some extremely rough times, and saved my life.
I am crying now, but the tears will dry as I will remember her warm smile and encouraging words for the remainder of this life.
My thoughts are with the members of her family and her many friends.
Rest well "Sweetie", you have more than earned it!
Rozanne Rants
March 27, 2011
So many admired Kay for her strong character and real caring for those who needed help.
kim krones
March 27, 2011
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
kim krones
March 27, 2011
I love you Kay.
Patti Stoumbaugh
March 27, 2011
Our Prayers are with you Ruthie and to your family . We are happy because our love ones are in a better place , but sad because we miss them so.... Take care.
Kay at Ethnic Fest, "Fishing for Justice."
Alice Curtis
March 27, 2011
Kay was an inspiration. She was a stalwart member of the Olympia FOR Committee for Alternatives to the Death Penalty. Always engaged, always welcoming, always energetic.
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