Obituary of Grace Genevieve Ash

Grace Genevieve Ash Grace passed away quietly on the morning of May 7, 2012, at Capitol Medical Center in Olympia, Washington. She was born in Stevens Point, Wisconsin on December 4, 1908 to Bernard and Elvie Formella. After her father’s death in 1920, the family moved to Hoquiam, Washington where she graduated from Hoquiam High School in 1927. Following graduation, Grace worked as a secretary for various lumber mills in the Aberdeen area. There she met her husband, Cyril “Curly” Ash, and they married in 1932. He passed away 20 years later. Grace then moved to Olympia where she worked for DSHS until her retirement in 1975. Grace had no children, but considered all her nieces and nephews as her family. Her home on Black Lake was always open to family, and many happy days were spent there swimming, boating, and potlucking. Grace was generous with advice and a helping hand. She was an avid gardener, daily news reader, and enjoyed baking treats for all who dropped by. She belonged to St. Michael’s Parish and was an active member of the Catholic Daughters of America. Grace was the last of ten Formella siblings. She is survived by three generations of nieces and nephews who will do their best to carry on the Formella tradition of hard work, good food, and family camaraderie. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on May 11, 2012 at Fern Hill Cemetery in Aberdeen, Washington. There will be a reception at the home of George and Sue Heye in Olympia after the service for all family and friends. Please leave memories of Grace or condolences for the family in the Guestbook below.