Wilma Denise Munsey: December 27, 1936 – July 20, 2011
Born Wilma Akers on December 27, 1936 in Everett, Wilma passed away suddenly on July 20, 2011 at her home in Friday Harbor. She leaves behind her loving husband Tom Munsey, children Craig and Grant Arno and Denise (Robert) Gamboa; stepchildren David (Jennifer), Curtis (Jennifer), and Rebecca Border; grandchildren Elizabeth, Ben, and Victoria Arno, Alex and Glen Gamboa, Logan, Colby, Sarah, and Christopher Border; and several nieces and nephews.
Wilma was an active organizer in every community in which lived. Over the years she led scout troops, church groups, support groups, and other volunteer activities too numerous to list.
She earned her college degree in Technical Writing at age 60 in Manassas, VA, and put it to use writing, among other things, a gardening column in the Friday Harbor newspaper. She was past president of both Garden Club and Horticultural Society, coordinator for San Juan County Cancer Support Group, and leader of the Cancer Incidence Mapping Project.
She had organized annual plantings at the formal garden and Pig War Reenactments at English Camp, was active in the county fair, and was proud to reinstate the printed fair booklet this year. She also worked on the County Salary Commission.
Her professional life was equally varied, from dental receptionist to career counselor to owner of an employment agency. While her first priority was always family and home, her door was open to just about everyone.
She enjoyed people, was a great cook, and enjoyed gardening and decorating. She always liked to look her best in company. And she loved giving gifts! Her family and friends will dearly miss her warmth and generosity. She gave her everything to everyone.
Wilma was preceded in death by parents Ivan Akers and Lois VanLaningham Akers, brother Jack Akers, sister Patricia Mills, and nephew Mark Mills.
Family and friends are invited to a gathering at noon on Saturday, July 30 at Mullis Senior Center, 589 Nash St., Friday Harbor, WA. There will be a brief eulogy and we hope people will bring memories to share, and then a light buffet lunch. Shuttles will be available for ferry walk-ons. Wilma loved hats, so feel free to wear one if you wish.
Memories can also be shared at the online guest register at www.evanschapel.com.