Dorothy Elaine Arey of Port Townsend, died at the age of 83, after complications from neurosurgery at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. Elaine passed away peacefully with her daughters at her side Sept. 19, 2022. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Lee Arey earlier this year.
Elaine was born in Tyndall, Manitoba, Canada. She attended Western Washington State College where she met and married the love of her life Lee. After college they settled in Lee's home town, Port Townsend. They were married for nearly 64 years. If you ever had a conversation with Elaine, you would recall that glow in her eyes whenever she spoke of Lee.
Elaine worked for Jefferson County Information Services where her commitment to the job was second only to her pride to be a Port Townsend resident. She loved to tell people about her town, and she loved walking at Fort Worden near their family home.
While Elaine loved to travel, and likely shared one of her experiences with anyone who would listen, she truly enjoyed her rose and vegetable gardens and her small orchard of apple trees. Elaine’s apple pies were second to none. We believe the secret was in the crust, but it could be Lee’s apple trees.
She is survived by her sister, Sandra Barton of Everett; her daughters, Kim (Bob) Putich and Michelle (Joey) Parks; her four grandchildren, Jackie Huber, Lauren Hopkins, Dan Putich, and Ryan Parks; as well as seven great-grandchildren; and her many friends. Elaine once said she enjoys life through other people’s experiences. She loved to hear what everyone was up to each day.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that those who are able instead donate to Seattle Children's Orthopedic Hospital, one of Elaine's favorite charities.
A Celebration of Life will be held Nov. 12, 2022. Details to come.
