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Jean Swain Nilmeier

1920 - 2017

Jean Swain Nilmeier obituary, 1920-2017, Portland, OR

Jean Nilmeier Obituary

Jean Swain Nilmeier

Portland, OR

Jean (Betty) Swain Nilmeier died on November 16, 2017 in Portland, Oregon.

She was born on June 12, 1920 in Riverside, CA to Albert Free Swain (entomologist) and Vivian Ida Volk (Montessori teacher). She graduated from Alhambra High School in 1937, earning the highest grade-point average, and was the Women?s Tennis Champion. She graduated from UC Berkeley in 1941, majoring in Math/Physics with a teaching credential. On November 20, 1941 she married Herbert Phillip Nilmeier (met at UCB) in Reno, Nevada. They were married for 70 years living in Albany, Orinda and Ventura.

Betty taught math in high schools in Tule Lake, Clayton Valley, Santa Paula; and Frank Colston?s School in Ventura. Jean was active in AAUW for over 50 years trying to advance women pursuing math/science careers. She was a docent at the Olivas Adobe for 33 years. She served on the Ventura City Historic Preservation Commission. In 1990, Betty earned the City of Ventura Volunteer of the Year Award. Betty spent hours enjoying her family, playing bridge, dancing at the La Estrella, playing golf, reading and travelling with family and friends.

Betty was predeceased by her husband, son (Allan) and granddaughter (Melissa). She is survived by her daughters Laura and Doris (John); daughter-in-law (Barb); grandchildren Rob (Maria), Chris and Sarah (Courtney); and great-grandchildren: Evan, Miles, and Samantha. She is survived by her brother Robert Swain and many nieces and nephews.

Jean will be interned at Los Oso Cemetery. Please send cards to 15740 NW Andalusian Way, Portland, Oregon.

Published by Ventura County Star from Nov. 26 to Nov. 28, 2017.
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Memories and Condolences
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3 Entries

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Annie Horne

December 8, 2017

Mrs Nilmeier was my Geometry teacher at Clayton Valley in 1961. I loved her. She was the best. My heart goes out to her family.

Pam Goheen/Bishop

December 2, 2017

I am so sorry for your loss. It is never easy when we lose someone we love. Please know prayer can heal and God is always ready to listen, Psalms 94:19. Sincerely, K.

November 27, 2017

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