Obituary of B. Jean Saltness

B. Jean Saltness of Washougal passed away on Sunday, February 24th at the age of 81. She was born on February 1, 1927 in Maddock, ND. Jean was a resident of Washougal, WA for 20 years. Jean is survived by her three ''favorite'' sons and their wives, Col. Gerald Saltness Jennifer of The Villages, FL, Jim Saltness Lori of Stevenson, WA and Clark Saltness of Ironton, MN. Jean is also survived by six grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years, Gerald; a grandson, Jared; and her siblings Dale and Marion. Jean spent much of her life raising her boys in Fessenden and Grafton, ND while working as a school secretary, bank teller, mortgage loan officer and bank manager. She and Gerald built their own lake home in MN where they enjoyed the retired life together until Gerald passed away in1987. Her boys and their families remained the focus of her life, making for weekly if not daily phone calls, trips, and celebrations to include her 80th birthday surprise party at the Skamania Lodge, making for many good memories. Jean was well read, informed, interested and in many cases ''opinionated'' in the news of the world especially US politics, and enjoyed traveling. She and her close friend Joan had many good memories traveling to China, Russia, Morocco and Europe. Jean traveled to Abidjan, West Africa, where she celebrated her 70th birthday by visiting remote villages, artist markets and trekking through dense foliage to view waterfalls and sample local cuisine. Special memories and hobbies include camping, playing pinochle, gardening, crafting, and following the Seattle Mariners. Jean made many friends in her cul-de-sac and playing bridge. She was especially fond of her everyday meetings with Budge and Grant, and gatherings/holidays with the Modrow and McMillen families. A celebration of Jean's life and a luncheon will be held at the Washougal Community Center 1681 C St. on Saturday, March 22 at 1:00. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Straubâ??s Funeral Home & Columbia River Cremation in Camas. In lieu of flowers please take some time to remember her kind and gentle spirit. Her fairness, humor, spunk, tenacity and kindness will be missed by all who knew and loved her. To send condolences or to sign the online guest book please visit www.straubsfuneralhome.com.