Mary Jane ‘Palmer’ Dean passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, May 13, 2005, with her family at her side. She was born February 28, 1927 on the family farm on Duffy Road, Skiyou, WA to Burton and Petra Tomren Palmer.
She attended grade school at Utopia and Skiyou, graduating from Sedro-Woolley High School with the class of 1945. She was known to her friends as ‘Polly’. Mary met and married the love of her life, Bob Dean in 1946. They met at a dance at the Burlington Fireman’s Hall. Over the years they continued to dance following their favorite band, Lloyd Hooper’s Cascade Ramblers, where ever they played.
She retired from Boeing in 1986 after 27 years. After retirement, she and Bob moved back home to the family farm in Skiyou. Mary stayed busy volunteering for the Concerned Citizens of Hospital District 304. She and Bob could be found helping at every Potato Feed held.
She enjoyed working in her yard, where her rhodies are now in bloom. Mary also loved doing needle work, knitting, crocheting, painting and jewelry making. She and her cousins met every week for crafting at each others home. Her favorite times were fishing in Alaska with her grandson, Justin.
Mary is survived by her husband of 59 years, Bob. Her daughter, Delores Dean and Ron of Chico, CA. Her son, Michael Dean and his wife, Ashley and their son, Justin, her beloved grandson of Sisters, OR. Sister-in-law, Elise Palmer. Nephew, Cliff Palmer and his wife, Sue, and their son, Chris. Cousins, Doris Howell, and Shirley London. Also numerous extended family members.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her four brothers, Gus Beckman, Leif Beckman, Wilbert ‘Polly’ Palmer and Maynard Palmer.
At Mary’s request, there will be no formal services. Memorials are suggested to the Concerned Citizens of Hospital District 304 at PO Box 518, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284.
A remembrance for friends and family will be held at the American Legion in Sedro-Woolley, on Friday, May 27, 2005 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
Services under the care of Lemley Chapel, Sedro-Woolley, WA. You may share your thoughts of Mary by signing our online guestbook at www.lemleychapel.com