Elaine was a past president of Soroptimist International of Sequim and a past recipient of the club’s Woman of Distinction award. Elaine was more than just a Soroptimist Sister; she was a friend, a mentor, a teacher. Elaine touched the hearts and minds of others through her kind and caring nature - and her sense of humor. She had a “Can Do” attitude. Elaine gave of herself, being there for others, showing up for life.

In gratitude for these and the many other gifts she gave, we honored Elaine Carlson by wearing ribbons of gold and blue, our Soroptimist colors.

We will miss Elaine’s physical presence, but her love and spirit will remain in our hearts always.

Dear Friends:

When I first heard that Elaine Carlson had passed away my heart was heavy. I took a breath and sent loving thoughts to Jerry and the family. Taking another breath a thought crossed my mind: “We should dedicate the Garden Show to Elaine.” Then a few more thoughts came in: “Would that be appropriate?” “Would we have enough time to do it properly?” The initial idea fell away.

Thursday evening before the show Sandy Reed called me at home. She and Gail Frick thought we should dedicate the Garden Show to Elaine. What a great idea! I was so grateful that they wanted to do it. Sandy asked me if I would write up the dedication. Gail and Sandy were going to make up ribbons that all the Soroptimist members would wear at the show in honor of Elaine. The ribbons would be blue and gold – our Soroptimist colors.

Friday morning I looked through club scrapbooks and pulled out five pictures of Elaine to include with the written dedication. Jerry leant us a framed photo of Elaine. All of these were on display near the entrance to the show.

I attended Elaine’s memorial service this past Friday. The church was packed. Many of the people who shared comments about Elaine had known her for 20 or more years. I felt a bit of an outsider since I had only known her since I became a Soroptimist six years ago. Then a woman wearing a scarf on her head stood up on the far side of the room. Her name is Lois Thomas. She said she had only known Elaine for three months but said that Elaine was the most positive and inspirational person she had ever met. Elaine had given her a book titled, There’s No Place Like Hope. It is inscribed- “To Lois, Love and my very best wishes and prayers” Elaine Carlson. It brought tears to my eyes because it was plain to see how Elaine touched so many lives – even those she had known for just a short period of time. What a great example!

With Love and Gratitude,
Kathy Purcell


PS At our evening meeting on 3/30/04 we had a Candle Lighting Service in honor of Elaine. Lois Thomas leant her book to us and Debra Danielson read several of the writings. Judy Ogilvie told us that the pot luck salad that she brought included Pecans she had received from Elaine. It was as if Elaine had provided us with food for both our bodies and our souls. Thank you, Elaine!