Ritajean Koehl

Born Oct. 26, 1953 to Fergus and Rita Brown in San Francisco, California, Ritajean Koehl died at home April 3 following a fierce battle against pancreatic cancer.

Rita was an adventurous and avid lover of the outdoors. She moved from San Jose, California, to Gig Harbor in 1977 where she built a home for herself and her first son, Eric. She also built community wherever she went, befriending many with her charm and kindness ;

In 1988, Rita married Eldon Paul Koehl and raised a family on the Key Peninsula. She could always be found outside tending her blueberry bushes or going on walks with neighborhood friends. She was involved in many causes but the 4-H Club, Vaughn Church, WayPoint Church and Quilting for the Homeless were the most prominent. ;

She worked various jobs over the years from gas station attendant to school bus driver, as cook in the Peninsula School District, and eventually retired from Costco as a food demonstrator. She was known for always lending a helping hand to those in need.

Rita is survived by her husband, their two children and a grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents and son Eric and joins them in heaven.

A memorial service is postponed until gathering in large groups is allowed. Rita was buried in Vaughn Cemetery. GPS coordinates are 47.347170 - 122.785653.

Anyone interested in attending the memorial service are encouraged to email ritasmemorial@gmail.com or write to Eldon Koehl, P.O. Box 902, Vaughn, WA 98394.