Dorothy Jane Holm

Dorothy Jane Holm October 18, 1919 - April 25, 2011 Dorothy Holm passed away peacefully after having spent her last month surrounded by family and friends. Her amazingly strong, joyous spirit was an inspiration to us all. Dorothy Jane Johnson was born in Tacoma on October 18, 1919 to parents Ed and Virginia Silcox Johnson. Dorothy grew up in Seattle, graduating from Lincoln High School and the University of Washington. Dorothy loved being a Husky, a tradition she shares with her daughter, granddaughter, cousins, nephews and nieces. Dorothy applied her UW studies in Art to become a draftsman at Todd Shipyard in Tacoma during WWII and later an interior design intern at Barker Brothers furniture in Los Angeles. Her true home, however, would be Silcox Island in American Lake. Silcox Island was bought by her grandfather in 1905 and was a permanent home to Dorothy and her parents during the Depression and then a summer home right up through last summer. It was while at the island that she met the love of her life, Clary Holm. They met dancing at a teen club in Tillicum, were married in 1946 after Clary returned from WWII, and danced for 53 years until his passing in 1999. They could truly cut a rug! Dorothy was an avid reader, and active in her community. She served on the Board of the Friends of the Tenzler Library in Lakewood, starting the first "Used Book Sale" for the Friends of the Library. She was honored for her work and recognized as one who put her passion for reading to use for the good of the community. Dorothy's greatest role was that of wife, mother and grandmother. Dorothy was Clary's right hand "gal" as they built and managed apartments in Lakewood. She was his and daughter Susan's greatest supporter. Dorothy's other joy was that of being Grandma to granddaughter Morgan Virginia Gierke. She loved us unconditionally! Dorothy is survived by daughter Susan Holm Gierke, loving son-in-law Steve Gierke, and adored granddaughter Morgan Gierke. Dorothy treasures the Cox and Holm family cousins, and considers anyone connected to Silcox Island her family. We will miss you, Mom, but celebrate you now and always. There will be a celebration of Dorothy's life on Saturday, May 14th, 2011 at 2:00 at the Tacoma Country and Golf Club. Please consider donations to Friends of Lakewood Library, P.O. Box 98374, Lakewood, WA 98498. The family wishes to thank the dedicated staff at Evergreen Hospice. Their support, care and kindness were greatly appreciated.