Our mother, Edna Gluth, 97, passed away on Friday, September 28, 2012. Edna, a long time Portland resident had been residing at Cedar Sinai Park (Rose Schnitzer Manor) for the past few years.

She was born June 7, 1915, the older of two daughters, in La Center, Wash. to Nicholas and Anna Rashford. Both her maternal and paternal grandparents were early Clark County pioneers who homesteaded this area. Her father was the first mayor of La Center. Edna was raised in La Center but graduated from Vancouver High School. The summer of 1933 she represented Clark County as a princess on the Mid-Columbia River Regatta’s royal court. Edna attended Portland Business College for one year prior to moving to Seattle to attend the University of Washington. In 1940, she received her degree in economics and business. Many happy college memories were associated with Sigma Kappa sorority. For years she remained a dedicated and active alumna as well as a Panhellenic member.

After graduation, Edna moved to Portland and married Alden Roland Gluth in 1941. When Al preceded her in death in 1995, they had been married for 54 years. While her husband was in Germany serving in World War II, Edna worked as a stenographer for the Navy Disbursing Office. After the birth of her two children, she devoted her time and energy to family, organizations and varied personal interests. She was a complete homemaker, blessed with artistic talents that were showcased throughout her long and fulfilling life.

As a young woman, Edna’s focus was on fashion and she became a gifted seamstress. She also enjoyed gardening and growing beautiful flowers which she used to create designer floral arrangements. Edna was an excellent cook who entertained often and was known for her delicious pies. A favorite outing was trips to Seaside for digging clams and frying up ones that the family thought were the best in the town.

Throughout life, Edna was an information seeker with a true appreciation for reading and challenging her mind. She spent enjoyable time walking daily, playing bridge, doing cross-word puzzles and traveling. Many road trips to Reno and Death Valley; special cruises including the Panama Canal and various trips throughout Europe and Asia highlighted Edna and Al’s retirement years.

Edna had a keen interest in local, state and national politics. She was a life-long liberal and welcomed a lively debate on issues of concern to her. She enjoyed serving on election boards.

Later in life, duplicate bridge became a passion that was with her until recently. Friends will remember Edna as a patient, considerate understated lady with an independent spirit and can-do attitude. She was part of the Great Depression generation that defined her strength and wisdom. The family has many memories of listening to her stories of how living through this time in history left a profound mark on her life. She learned early the lessons of frugality, resourcefulness and perseverance.

Edna was a partner of the Gluth Timber Co. in Oregon and Rashford Tree Farm and Investment Co. LLC in Washington.

In 1962, Edna was preceded in death by her beloved sister and best friend, Margaret Schneider.

Her loved ones were the light and center of her life. The family wishes to thank the Rose Schnitzer staff and residents; her many bingo buddies who helped make Mom’s final years as enjoyable as possible.

In keeping with our mother’s wishes, there will be no memorial service. A private entombment will be held at Riverview Abbey Mausoleum, where she will be laid to rest with her husband and her parents. For those who wish, remembrances may be made in Edna’s name to the La Center Historical Museum at 33920 NW Pacific Hwy., La Center, WA 98629.

Facts Born: June 7, 1915
Place of Birth: La Center, WA USA
Death: September 28, 2012
Place of Death: Portland, OR USA

Survived By Carol Hills (Larry), Daughter
Nick Gluth , Son
Heidi Hoffmann (Steve) , Granddaughter
Molly Huard (Brock), Granddaughter
Six great-grandchildren