SALEM - Rachel Ruth Seals passed away peacefully after a long battle with cancer on February 12, 2008 in her home in Salem, Oregon at age 86.

Rachel was born on December 30, 1921 in Beulah, Wyoming where she grew up with her 7 siblings, 5 sisters and 2 brothers and parents, Jesse and Cleta Whitford. All but one sister has preceded her in death. Rachel graduated from nursing school in Wyoming as a Registered Nurse in 1944.

She met the love of her life in 1946, Marvin Seals, and they married the same year after a short courtship. The newlyweds moved to Portland, Oregon in 1949, then to Salem in 1950 where they resided in the same home until each of their deaths.

Rachel's passion was nursing. She spent her early career working in hospital and doctor offices. She spent the last 25 years of her career as the head nurse at the Oregon State Hospital.

Rachel's husband spent his career as a guard at the Oregon State Penitentiary. Marvin had a great sense of humor and he often introduced themselves to new friends saying Rachel was from the State Hospital and he was in prison.

Rachel was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years in 1995. Her hobbies were knitting, crossword puzzles and gardening. She was one of those rare people whom everyone loved. Marvin & Rachel had two beautiful daughters who married and produced 3 beautiful grandchildren. Her greatest time was whenever she was able to spend time with her children and grandchildren who all live in the Salem area. She looked forward to family gatherings every year when holidays and birthdays were celebrated with her whole family together.

Rachel and Marvin loved to travel and usually took one big trip every year. Their final trip together was a 3 week cruise through the Panama Canal where they met new friends and have kept in touch with them and fond memories of their special cruise.

Rachel is survived by her sister; Freda Thomas, of Story, Wyoming; 2 daughters; Vicki (Bruce) Laudon and Yvonne Johnson; 3 grandchildren; Lisa (Scott) Kelley, Ryan Laudon and Melissa (Brad) Columbus; and 5 great grandchildren; Hannah Laudon, Roxy and Makenna Columbus, Quinn Kelley and Sean Laudon. All of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren reside in Salem. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends. She will be missed greatly by Elliott, her faithful cat.

Visitation will be Saturday, Feb. 16th from 1 to 2 PM with funeral services following at 2 PM at Restlawn Funeral Home. Remembrances may be made to the Willamette Valley Hospice who provided outstanding care for her during her final days. Their address is 1015 3rd Street NW, Salem, OR 97304.

Statesman Journal - Feb. 15, 2008