June 16, 1931 - June 21, 2015
BALDERSON, Mary Ellen (Taylor) Born: June 16, 1931 in Newport, WA Passed away: June 24, 2015 in Spokane, WA Mary is survived by her three children Karen Strong, Sally Purvine and Michael Balderson along with three grandchildren and three great- grandchildren. Mary was born and raised in Newport, WA where she went to school with her future husband of 65 years, Lyle Balderson. Mary and Lyle married on April 15, 1950 and upon his entering the Navy moved to San Francisco where she worked as a telephone operator. After leaving the Navy they moved back to Washington State where they began their lives together raising their three children. Throughout her life, Mary was involved in her community in various roles. Mary worked as a lioness secretary for the Lions Club, was a Brownie/Girl Scout/Cub Scout leader and worked in various schools where she was a classroom volunteer and tutor. She was also very involved in the United Methodist Church in Vancouver, WA where she was active with the United Methodist Women Organization. Mary also enjoyed much travel throughout her life, visiting both a vast portion of the United States and internationally where she and Lyle traveled throughout Europe on multiple occasions with extended family. Mary enjoyed a full life living throughout the northwest spending her final years in Spokane surrounded by family and friends. She will be remembered for her extensive support and encouragement of her family and as a wonderful woman, mother and partner who shared much strength and love with those around her. A celebration of Mary and Lyle's lives will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2015 from 3:00 to 6:00 at the Contempo Community Club House located at 1205 E. Lyons Ave., Spokane, WA 99208
