Barbra Pauline Aboen Lajala, 98, passed peacefully Feb. 19, 2019, in Tumwater, Wash. She was born Jan. 25, 1921, in Toledo, Wash., to Erland Aboen and Thea Barlond Aboen.
Barbra grew up in Toledo graduating from Toledo High school in 1939. She attended business college after her graduation and then worked as a bookkeeper in Seattle until her retirement in 1975. In 1963, Barbra married Jule Lajala and they then moved to Camano Island after their retirement, where they enjoyed the company of family and friends. After Jule’s death, she moved to Tumwater to be closer to her family.
Barbra was a gifted artist. She enjoyed painting, ceramics and creating greeting cards. Barbara also loved growing her own garden and trying new recipes. She was often seen in the stands at her great-nieces and nephews basketball games and track meets, bringing a box of freshly made cookies for the team.
Barbra was preceded in death by her husband, Jule; brothers, Berndt and Erland Aboen; and sister, Thora Aboen Sharp.
She is survived by her step-children; grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Her love of life will be missed by her family and friends.
A celebration of life will be held in Toledo, at Fir Lawn Chapel, Friday, March 15, 2019, at 3:00 p.m.
