Leona Elizabeth French passed away peacefully December 6, 2011 at the age of 98 in Olympia, Washington. She was born March 18, 1913 to Matthew and Edna Little Hagerty in Naches, Washington. She was raised in Tieton and graduated from Tieton High School in 1931. She married Adrian French on Thanksgiving Day, November 30, 1933. They settled in the Tieton area where they owned and operated a wheat and cattle ranch. Adrian passed away on December 4, 1973.
Leona is survived by her children, Linda (Roger) Polzin of Olympia, Penny (John) Buffo of Seattle, and Allen French of Tieton. Also surviving are grandchildren Abby Polzin of Lynnwood, Washington, Wendy Polzin of Olympia, and Mike (Susan) Buffo of Olympia. Survivors also include a sister, Ermadyne (Clarence) Smith of Almira, Washington and seven nephews. Leona was preceded in death by her sister, Margaret Stillwaugh and brother, Marion Hagerty.
In 1985, Leona relocated to Olympia to avoid the snow and ice of the eastern Washington winters. She had many wonderful friends and enjoyed a good game of pinochle, cribbage, or bridge, as well as reading and traveling. She greatly enjoyed her travels to Europe and around the U.S.
For the past three and a half years Leona resided at Olympia Manor Rehabilitation Center in Olympia. Our family would like to extend our appreciation to the staff at the Manor for the excellent medical and social care she received during her stay.
Graveside services will be held at 3:30 pm, Friday, December 16, 2011 at Terrance Heights Memorial Park, 3001 Terrance Heights Drive, Yakima, WA 98901. A reception will be held in the Tieton Presbyterian Church social hall immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers Leona would like you to make a donation to a charity or organization of your choice.
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