Elaine Jeannette Armstrong, former Pan Am stewardess, made her final flight to heaven on Oct. 3, 2011. She was born to Esther Ingara Paulson and Miriam Clare Armstrong on Jan. 26, 1923 in Seattle. Elaine’s three-year struggle with her health ended, bringing her peace and rest.
During her early school years, Elaine belonged to a unique roller skating dance club. She traveled with the club, giving performances, twirling her red satin lined skirt with the music. Then her interests turned from skating to snow skiing, swooshing the slopes of Washington, California, Idaho and Alaska.
Elaine was a career gal, working outside the home most all of her adult life before retiring at the age of 72. She was an accountant for several engineering law and architecture firms. For 15 years, Elaine worked for Pan American Airlines, both as a ground agent and a flight attendant in the 1940s and ‘50s. She flew on the Stratocruisers to many exotic South and Central Pacific destinations, as well as Alaska. She delighted many friends by sharing stories of her flying adventures.
Elaine made Whidbey Island her home for nearly 30 years. Her life had been one of continual activity and enjoyment with her long-time Seattle friends, and her new Island friends. She loved exploring the beaches, parks and trails with her beloved pets. Elaine held a very soft spot in her heart for animals. Gardening was her hobby, as well as maintaining her home which she held so dear.
Elaine was preceded in death by her parents, a sister and two former husbands. Elaine was extremely proud and grateful for those who remained close in her final years. She found such love and happiness. It was Elaine’s wish that those she leaves behind find as much happiness as she did in her lifetime. She often expressed her appreciation and thanksgiving for the love and friendship of Jean-Claude and Barbara Renoux, The MAC Clinic, and to the Whidbey General Home Health Care staff.
At her request, there will be no services. Elaine will be laid to rest at Acacia Mausoleum with her parents.
As long as we are alive,
she too will live
because she is part of us
when we remember her.
