Maxine Bjorling passed away Sept. 6, 2009. She first saw the light of day in New Plymouth, Idaho, on Aug. 29, 1922. Her parents were Charles and Maude Schieber. She lived in New Plymouth, Hoquiam, and Bremerton, Wash., where she graduated from Bremerton High School.
Following graduation, she worked at Peninsula Stationery and later at the Naval Ammunition Depot in Bremerton. Bert Bjorling, a yeoman in the U.S. Navy, said he would love, honor and obey her on March 10, 1943, and he has been at it ever since.
Their son Mark was born seven years later (no shotgun here) and daughters Carolyn and Sally came along later. Mark and his wife Geri live in Neola, Iowa, and they have two sons. Carolyn lives in Addy, Wash., and has two daughters, and Sally lives in Oak Harbor with her husband Tracy Eppard and they have one son and two daughters. Maxine has one brother, Bill Schieber, who lives in Electric City, Wash., with his wife Doris.
During Maxine’s years she moved many times with Bert, who was employed as a civilian accountant with the U.S. Government. During their moving around period, one of the highlights was her two years in Newfoundland, Canada.
Throughout these years, Maxine has lent her positive attitude and organization skills to Cub Scouts, Blue Birds and Campfire Girls, as well as Spastic Children’s groups and the Whidbey Island Braillist. She wa a life member of Beta Sigma Phi. Maxine was a charter member and past president of the Oak Harbor Emblem Club. She also served as chaplain, treasurer, corresponding secretary and vice president, as well as having chaired and served on many committees.
Maxine enjoyed her grandchildren and great grandchildren, the outdoors, hiking, camping and just generally having fun. She was a delight to be around and will be missed.
A memorial service was held Sept. 11 at the Oak Harbor Elks Lodge. Memorials have been suggested to the Washington Elks Therapy Program, PO Box 110760, Tacoma, WA 98411-0760; or the Emblem I Care (for the visually challenged), c/o Emblem Club 450, PO Box 666, Oak Harbor, WA 98277. Condolences may be left for the family at www.burleyfuneralchapel.com.
