Obituary of Rae Nicole Blevins

Rae Nicole “Nikki” Blevins passed away on October 29, 2014, after a courageous battle with Pulmonary Fibrosis. Nikki was born in Tacoma, Washington, on May 1, 1942. Nikki was part of the first graduating class from Wilson High School. She continued her education at Washington State University where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and Education. This college experience started a 54 year love affair with the WSU Cougars. She and her college friends never missed a homecoming game. Nikki had a long career with Pierce County Parks & Recreation. During her college years, she worked as a playground leader. The summer following her graduation, she traveled around the world, returning to Tacoma to start her job as the recreation supervisor for Pierce County Parks. Thirty-four years later, she retired as their financial/business manager in December 1998. The Pierce County Council honored Nikki’s contributions to the Parks Department by declaring the day she retired as “Nikki Blevins Day” in Pierce County. Throughout her lifetime Nikki joined and participated in many organizations. Some of these included WSU Alumni Assoc., Catholic Daughters of America, St. Frances Cabrini Church and School, TAC Shanahan Sports Museum, Daffodil Festival (Queen Mother), and Allenmore Golf Womens Club. Nikki was an avid sports fan, both as a participant and spectator. The highlight of her golfing days included a “hole-in-one” at Allenmore. She was a season ticket holder for the Seattle Mariners and enjoyed many games shared with her family members. She would be the first one to tell you that the love of her life was spending time with her two grandchildren. Because of that love, her family has a volume of memories to cherish. She is survived by her mother, Mary Mahnkey; her daughter, Lisa Blevins Harrison; grandchildren, Madison Harrison and Levi Harrison; sister and brother-in-law, Karen and Keith Moorhead. She was predeceased by her father, Earl Mahnkey Sr.; and brother, Earl Mahnkey Jr. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Franciscan Hospice House, 2901 Bridgeport Way West, University Place, Washington 98466. Please leave memories of Nikki or condolences for her family in the Guestbook below.