Edna "Erma" G. Oakley

Edna "Erma" G. Oakley, 87, Moses Lake resident and former longtime Soap Lake resident passed away Wednesday, July 11, 2012 in Moses Lake. Edna was born on July 24, 1924 in Gage, Montana to Silas and Elsie Manchester. As the 5th of nine children, Edna was a born nurturer. She cared for her younger siblings and neighbors' children as though she was the mother. She married Howard Oakley on July 19, 1940, and gave birth to her first daughter, "Jean" in 1941 with two more daughters, Terrie and Ida following a few years after. Edna and Howard relocated to Washington when the children were young, living in Gig Harbor, Electric City and Soap Lake.

Edna became a widow at the age of 49 when Howard passed away suddenly in 1973. She met Barney Baker in 1976 and they shared nearly 24 years together before Barney passed away in 2000.

Edna's thirst for life was inspiring to everyone who met her. Every minute mattered and she was driven to learn something about everything. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren were her pride and joy. She guided and encouraged them all to never give up on their

dreams. If she could help them achieve their dreams, she was the first one giving them a hand. She demonstrated unconditional love, understanding and unselfishness to every life she touched. She was the "rock" that guided everyone through the rough spots in life, often sacrificing her own needs. She led by example and taught them to never give up.

Although Alzheimer's disease robbed her of the ability to speak, her bright smile and happy spirit endured, and will be forever remembered be everyone who knew her.

Edna was preceded in death by husbands: Howard Oakley & Barney Baker; daughters: Jean Strunk, Terrie Warner and Ida Oakley; and grandson Jimmy Strunk.

She is survived by brother: Charles Manchester of Buffalo Wyoming; granddaughters: Linda Strunk of Moses Lake and Lisa Earhart (Eric) of East Wenatchee; Great Grandchildren: Anthony Mylonas (Nancy), Jason Mylonas, Nikolas Mylonas (Jenica), Savannah Strunk-Gonzales, all of

Moses Lake, and Madison Earhart of East Wenatchee and Great-Great Grandchildren: Jackson, Hunter, Drake and Ava.

Funeral Services to be held on Monday, July 16, 2012 at Kayser's Chapel of Memories at 10:00 a.m. with interment at Valley View Memorial Park in Soap Lake immediately following. Please sign the on-line guestbook or leave a note for the family at www.kayserschapel.com. Arrangements are in care of Kayser's Chapel &a Crematory, Moses Lake. Cards may be sent to 1327 E. Hope Ct, Moses Lake, Wa 98837.