Mary Elizabeth Gallinger

Mary Elizabeth Rhodes Gallinger, passed away peacefully on Monday, Nov. 10, 2014, at Buena Vista Nursing home in Colville, Wash., at the age of 91. She was born on Jan. 12, 1923, to Louis and Edna Garton Rhodes, in Coulee City, Wash.

She graduated from Coulee City High School and attended Business School in Everett, Wash. On her return to Coulee City area she went to work at Grand Coulee Dam as one of the first female timekeepers. Mary met Bill Gallinger, while working at the Dam, and they were married in 1947 and made their home in Coulee Dam. She continued work for the USBR until their children were born. In 1959 Mary went to work for BPA, part time as a clerk/typist, retiring in 1985.

Mary was active in her Church, PEO and enjoyed playing bridge. She was a special Mother and Grandmother and her happiest times were those spent with family. Her family has special memories of time spent at Twin Lakes and of the special canned goods she shared with them, especially her dill pickles.

 Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, parents, and siblings Louis Rhodes and Anna Lou Jensen.

 Mary is survived by brother, Don (Arminta) Rhodes; daughter, Christie (Steve) Hakola, Colville, son, John Gallinger, Chattaroy; grandsons, Dusty (Marcy) Gallinger, Gabe (Tami) Gallinger, and Mike (Carley) Gallinger, all of Deer Park, granddaughters, Faith Gallinger, Spokane and Lacey (Lance) Gallinger, Chattaroy; 7 great-grandchildren and special family friends, Karen Morley, Sue Palmer & Trudy Gallinger.

 A graveside services will be held at the Spring Canyon Cemetery on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2014, at 11:00 a.m. with a luncheon following at the Coulee Dam Community Church. Memorials may be made to Buena Vista Nursing Home, 151 Buena Vista Dr, Colville, Wash. 99114. Please visit the online memorial and sign the guestbook at http://www.danekasfuneralchapel.com. Danekas Funeral Chapel & Crematory has been entrusted with the arrangements.