Marian Jennings

~Marian Maxine Jennings~ Marian was born to Martha and Victor Helt October 9, 1920 in Addy, a small farming town in Eastern Washington. She graduated from Colville High School in 1938. Marian then attended Eastern Washington State College and earned a degree in Education. She also trained as a volunteer nurse for The War effort. Marian began her teaching career with the Okanogan School District and then moved to Tacoma, Washington to teach at McKinley Elementary School. She met her husband, Fred Jennings, after his 18-month assignment overseas during World War II, and were married three months later on March 31, 1946. They built a home in Tumwater, Washington in 1950 where they raised 4 children. Fred died in 1970 and Marian continued to live in her home another 40 years. In addition to raising her children and teaching school, Marian was a Sunday School teacher, scout leader, a member of United Commercial Travelers and Ruth's Circle Church Guild. Her family meant everything to her and everyone always enjoyed getting together at her home to celebrate birthdays and holidays. She also spent family vacations every summer in Addy and Colville. After teaching for 30 years, Marian retired from the Tumwater School District in 1982. In retirement, she spent the first few years caring for her mother. Later, she spent her time traveling, reading the paper (cover to cover), playing Bridge, following The Mariners and taking care of her grandchildren. She took several trips, including Hawaii, California, the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas and an Alaskan Cruise. Marian was preceded in death by her husband, Fred Jennings; son, Alan Jennings (Meredith); son-in-law, Duane G Cordiner; and brother, Roland Helt. She is survived by her brother, Durwood B Helt (Felicia); her three daughters, Anelle Granger (Joe), Karen Johnson (Ed) and Kaylene Johanson; 9 grandchildren, Duane A Cordiner (KC), Jeff Seeman (Gina), Wes Seeman, Joanne Granger, Miles Granger, Yvonne Granger (Joe Ordonez), Lyle Jennings, Alex Jennings and Sayer Johanson; 5 great grandchildren, Adam Cordiner, JD Seeman, Corbin Seeman, Stella Ordonez and Saphhire Ordonez; and many beloved nephews and nieces. Marian's service will be held at Mills & Mills Funeral Home in Tumwater on Friday, September 7, 2012 at 2 pm with a viewing at Noon. A reception will follow. Her daughters would like to acknowledge with deep appreciation the love and kindness shown to Marian during her lifetime, with a special thanks to Darlene and John Maxwell and to Thelma and Al Suaviso and Staff of Sound Care Adult Family Homes. They are also very thankful to have been blessed with a wonderful mother who gave them lots of laughter and many fond memories.