LaNell Olive (Neer) Gilk, 91, went to her eternal home in heaven Saturday, March 16, 2019. She met her Lord and Savior with open arms, knowing that her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were near her. LaNell was born to Ralph and Anna (Roberts) Neer Feb. 23, 1928, near Forrest, Wash.
She was raised on the family farm and attended Chehalis schools, graduating from W.F. West High School in 1946. In February 1946, LaNell met the love of her life, William “Bill” Gilk at a grange dance. They were married Aug. 10, 1946, and were able to celebrate 65 years of marriage together.
LaNell and Bill made their home on a 60 acre farm near Mary’s Corner. She was always a hard working farm girl, who had a deep love for her family, especially her three children. LaNell was also a member of the Jackson Prairie Assembly of God Church for almost 60 years, where she enjoyed her ladies bible study group and teaching Sunday school. She also volunteered at Napavine Elementary School for many years. LaNell loved nature, being outside and any outdoor activities. Fishing, hunting and taking long car rides on back roads were some of her favorite pastimes. She also enjoyed bowling, quilting, reading, snuggling with her kitty, Boots and gardening. She was passionate about her flowers, proudly showing them to all who visited.
LaNell was preceded in death by her husband, William Gilk Sr.; son, William Gilk Jr.; brothers, Walter Neer (KIA WWII) and Roy “Buck” Neer; and her sister, Marie Pattee.
She is survived by her sister, Betty Anderson of Richland, Wash.; children, Mike (Diana) Gilk of Chehalis, Susan Anderson of Chehalis and “son #3” Frank (Teresa) Holmes of Toledo. She had 10 grandchildren whom she loved dearly, Chad and Stefanie Gilk, Nicole Zickler, Nathan and James Gilk, Kelly and Bill Anderson, Kyleigh, Hunter and Haleigh Holmes. She is also survived by several great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; and many wonderful friends.
A graveside service will be held at the Claquato Sunset Memorial Cemetery, west of Chehalis at 9:30 a.m., Friday, March 22, 2019. A memorial service and luncheon will be held the following day at the Jackson Prairie Church, Saturday, March 23, 2019, at 1 p.m. All family and friends are welcome to attend the services. In lieu of flowers, the family recommends a donation to the Veterans Memorial Museum located at 100 SW Veterans Way, Chehalis, WA 98532.
