Elsie Stevenson

February 15, 1914 – October 14, 2011

      Elsie Stevenson, of Bainbridge Island, was born February 15, 1914 in Wooster, Massachusetts. She died October 14 at age 97.

      Elsie was raised by her mother, Lena Spilectec, an immigrant from Austria. While Lena worked in New Jersey factories, Elsie found family with “Tanta,” a loving neighbor also from Austria. Elsie left school after the 8th grade in order to work to help her mother. In spite of her foreshortened education, Elsie had a bright, curious mind and was an avid reader and crossword puzzler. After retirement, she returned to South Seattle Community College to obtain her high school diploma. It was very important to her that she actually graduate, not just get a GED, and she did so after petitioning the college to waive the health class requirement – “I’m 72 years old; I think I know about health!”

      Elsie married Harold Heppenstall from Seattle and they raised two children at their Alaska Street home. Elsie worked as a hostess at the Bon Marche restaurant and, later, as a secretary for several departments of the federal government. With her second husband, Stan Stevenson, she enjoyed post-retirement travel. Until age 94, Elsie walked 3 miles a day every day. Her last years were spent at the Madison Avenue Retirement Center where she will be remembered for her sense of humor.

      Elsie was predeceased by her husband and her beloved daughter, Barbara Shaw of Calgary, Alberta. She is survived by her son, Don Heppenstall (Emily Mansfield) of Bainbridge Island, her grandchildren Brad Shaw (Tara), Keri Rimel (Travis), Nick Heppenstall, and Marina Heppenstall, and four great-grandchildren.

      At Elsie’s request there will be no memorial service. Remembrances can be made to American Cancer Society, Seattle, Washington.

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