Edith May Randall (nee Carlson) passed away June 13, 2023. She was 92 years old.
Edith was born on February 8, 1931 to Axel and Signe Carlson in Spokane, WA. Her parents were both immigrants from Sweden, but her childhood could best be described as all-American, complete with softball games and McDonald’s hamburgers. Despite old-world Swedish staples like home-baked rye bread and meatballs anchoring her childhood, her parents always encouraged assimilation. Nevertheless, she remained proud of her Swedish heritage, passing along many customs and culture to her family throughout her life. Christmas smorgasbords and Swedish coffee bread were always highlights, and the whole family can (and does) sing Sweden’s “Happy Birthday” song.
After graduating high school, Edith enrolled at Washington State University and quickly found work as a legal secretary, a career that she would pursue for most of her working years until retirement in 1992. Looking for a change of scenery and a glimpse of big city life, Edith left Spokane to move in with an aunt and uncle in Seattle in 1955. A devout Lutheran her entire life, she met her future husband, Jack, at church. They began dating after a memorable youth group dance held at Ballard’s Nordic center, and were married in 1957. They had two daughters together, Sharon and Pamela, and remained married until Jack’s death in 2022.
Jack and Edith spent their retirement years in Port Ludlow in a beautiful home overlooking the northern end of the Hood Canal. This time was largely devoted to church, friends, some travel, much bird watching, but especially family. Edith’s seven grandchildren (and six great grandchildren) were a great source of pride and joy in her life.
Edith will be remembered as a fastidious and proud homemaker, talented cook and baker, avid sports fan, and eager card player (and occasional gambler). She was a devoted wife and mother with a strong sense of right and wrong.
With respect to that latter bit, she was well known for how thoroughly she could express her thoughts on a matter with a remarkable economy of language; often only a gesture would communicate volumes (and frequently to great humorous effect). She became more reflective about this quality of hers later in life, and I want to end with some words she wrote regarding them which I find quite beautiful: “There were times that were maybe difficult in accepting what [my loved ones] did in my eyes but that all passed. Nothing was so serious; all are forgiven whatever they were. I hope they will forgive me for many things I said that were hurtful, it probably at the time seemed important but time heals. I am at peace in hopes what was said before is forgiven by them all.”
No forgiveness was asked for and none was warranted. She is missed very much by us all.
A memorial for close friends and family was held at her Port Ludlow home in December. If you are moved to do something to commemorate her passing, please consider a donation to Peace Lutheran Fellowship, P.O. Box 65295, Port Ludlow, WA 98365
