Wow, I can't believe it's been a month since I started my trip report. However it was very difficult month. On September 12, my grandmother passed away. You may remember I mentioned that she was in the hospital in my last post - she never got better this last time. She was surrounded by family in her final days. "On Wednesday, September 12, Edwina Jane Reitter, 79, left her beloved home in Anchorage where she had shared her life with family, friends and husband of 63 years. She fought the good fight and is now with her Lord and Savior watching in anticipation for others to join her in eternity.
Born to Clyde and Bessie Jones, in Meridian, California, on May 17, 1933, Edwina was preceded by brother Alvie Jones and sister Margarie Jones Taws. Edwina attended grammar school in Meridian and Sutter Union High School.
In the late 1940's, Edwina caught Bob's eye while babysitting his brother's children; soon Bob was stopping by to borrow the dictionary to work crossword puzzles. They married on December 9, 1950, and began their incredible journey together.
Edwina was ALWAYS ready to entertain or just add another plate for more people. She loved to cook the favorites during the holidays.
When Edwina and Bob arrived in Alaska on vacation in 1971, she embraced everything about Alaska. She was an avid fisherman, fish wheeling, clamming, salmon and halibut fishing. She loved to hunt, dropping two Caribou with one shot. She even tried a hand at prospecting in Chicken. She sewed parkas for each member of the female side of the family, adding mukluks and parka ruffs as well.
Edwina loved working for the Alaska Court System where she retired as Supervisor of In Court Clerks. She and Bob took motorhome trips visiting family, friends and sights throughout the United States. They extended their family to include the members of their local RV group.
Edwina is survived by her husband Bob; son Robert and wife Kathy of Grants Pass, OR; son Alan and wife Susie of Kenai; son Jeff of Anchorage; grandchildren Louisa and husband, Jim James of Tok; Toni and Duane of Kenai, and great grandchildren Trinity and Demitri of Tok.
A Service to Celebrate Edwina's Life will be held on Saturday, September 15 at 4 p.m. at ChangePoint Church, 6689 ChangePoint Drive in Anchorage. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made to your favorite charities."
I'm now in charge of getting the family photos in order and scanned and ready for distribution at some point. It's been a challenge, but I love looking at all the photos! I even posted some on facebook and am learning the stories behind them and meeting family friends that way. (Also had an ex of my dad's contact me... which was awkward.)
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