Obituary of Lasley D. Warner

Lasley D. Warner “Las”, “Les”, “Ole’ Warner”, “Tapman”, “Papa” Feb 12, 1914 - Aug 31, 2008 Las died peacefully on Sunday morning at dawn, in his home of 57 years, with his beloved wife Stella at his side. He was 94 years old. The day before his passing, he was surrounded by family and friends, laughter and tears, songs and stories, as we gathered to wish him well on his final journey. After his weary decade of struggle with advancing dementia, we are all grateful that his suffering is now at an end. Lasley was born in Olympia, Washington, the oldest of four children born to Frances Fern Lasley and Claude A. Warner. He spent the remainder of his life here. Though he received little institutional education beyond the primary years, he developed a profound knowledge of farming and the natural world. In addition to farming, Las worked for Simpson Logging Company and the Olympia Brewery, before opening a private business servicing the beer taps of local establishments, earning himself both the nickname and license plate, “Tapman”. He was a member of the First Christian Church and later joined St. John’s Episcopal Church, where he proudly served as sexton for many years. He was an active member of the Olympia chapter Elks Club, earning the titles of “Tall Elk” and “Elk of the Year” for his consistent and generous support of the organization and their charities. He volunteered countless hours with the Thurston County Food Bank, and was always available to lend a helping hand to those who were in need. In the winter of 1950, Las heard, through friends, of a single mother with two children who was in danger of spending Christmas without power due to an electrical problem. He showed up on her doorstep- Christmas tree in tow- fixed the problem, and stayed for dinner. Las had met the woman of his dreams, and Stella Agnes had met the man who would love, shelter, and provide for her and her children for the rest of his life. They were married the following June of 1951. Robert and Roxanna welcomed their youngest sister, Brendajean, to their family four years later. Lasley missed the birth- he was busy fixing the roof of an elderly neighbor. To all who knew him, Las embodied selfless generosity and service. He was a lover of music, hard work, good stories, and family. The joys in his life included salmon fishing, geoduck digging, bowling, and scotch on the rocks. He loved to sing and tell good jokes, had a deep abiding patience and kindness, and never said “no” to anyone in need. He was humble, sincere, loyal, gracious, and gentle. His tenderness and care when dealing with each of us is a lasting testament to his character. He will be remembered by his children, Robert Andrew (Susan), Roxanna Shively (Ron), and Brendajean Warner (Valerie), his grandchildren, Tyler, Troy, Michelle, Erica, Creighton, and Audrey, nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter. The last thing Papa said to me was “do you need a place to sleep?”. Last week, I’d come in late at night to check on them, and despite all of his challenges, his pain and his confusion, his only thought was of my comfort. This is my Papa’s legacy. To honor Las, live as he did: be kind, be generous, work hard, laugh long. We would like to thank the many care providers who helped Papa remain in his home, including most recently, Kathie, Cyndee, Jeremiah, and Yong Ae. Join us in celebration of his life on Saturday Sept 6, 2008 at 4:00pm at St. John’s Episcopal Church on Capitol Way. Reception following service. Additional parking is available in the parking lot across from the Frog Pond on Capitol Way, and at Lincoln Elementary. You may leave your memories of Las and condolences for the family by clicking on "View Guestbook" below: