Donna Rae Sowler

Donna was a 1947 graduate of Seattle’s Roosevelt High School. She worked at the Traffic Violations Bureau in Seattle until marrying her husband of nearly 60 years, Craig Sowler. She and Craig raised six children in Shoreline and were longtime members of Bethel Lutheran Church of Shoreline.

“Mom” loved to sew and taught that skill to all four of her daughters. She enjoyed completing large crocheting projects and gave away many beautiful afghans to family members over the years. She loved to cook, often trying out new recipes - usually with success but always with a sense of humor.

Donna and Craig enjoyed frequent camping and fishing trips throughout Washington. Their travel trailer was a second home, and they delighted in sharing trips with grandchildren who have many fond memories of their adventures with Grandma and Grandpa. Donna kept a journal of their travels, making entries for all their trips. She was naturally curious, and loved studying maps and reading recipes just for interesting facts she could obtain from them. Whenever there was a disagreement about a place name, mileage, or a recipe ingredient, it was always best to put your money on Donna’s position in that particular dispute.

She was a serious Shanghai Rummy player and some of her grandchildren carry on the tradition. She became a big Seahawks fan when the team launched in 1976 and always looked forward to watching their games. Her beloved dachshund, Frieda, was a great companion for many years.

For the last seven years, Donna’s home was Vineyard Park at Bothell Landing. She always enjoyed hosting multigenerational holiday gatherings, and continued to do so while at Vineyard Park. She and family members have always appreciated the warm, friendly care shown by staff over the years.

Donna was preceded in death by her brother Noel Griffin, her husband Craig Sowler, and two granddaughters, Briana Hart and Megan McNerney. She is survived by daughters Linda Sowler, Mary Hart (Brian), Colleen Lawler, Karen McNerney (Jim), sons Scott Sowler and Mark Sowler (Tina), and former son-in-law J. Kelly Lawler.

She also leaves behind 14 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

Though Donna made no secret about her sadness at losing Craig, her life was deeply enriched by friends and family. At the risk of missing some of those individuals, a special thanks is owed to lifelong friend Beverly and activities director Katie. Your caring for Donna lifted her spirits immensely.

Immediate family will observe interment at Tahoma National Cemetery. All are invited to share in a memorial service to be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, July 19, at Bethel Lutheran Church’s new home at 17529 15th Ave NE, Shoreline, WA 98155