Geraldine Deloris Klahn (Howe), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on August 17, 2026, at Summit Pacific Medical Center in Elma, Washington. Born on April 16, 1932, in Tacoma, Washington, Geraldine lived a life marked by devotion to her family, her work, her community, and her many passions.

Throughout her 94 years, Geraldine touched the lives of all who knew her, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and quiet strength. She grew up in Belfair, WA, the cherished daughter of Melvin (Harry) and Elfrda Howe. Devoted to learning, she earned her GED in the late 1960s—a testament to her perseverance and love of knowledge.

Geraldine excelled in her professional life, dedicating ten years to Grays Harbor Paper and later serving as head cook at Hoquiam High School for eight years, where her culinary talents and caring spirit enriched the lives of students and staff alike. She retired in 1989, leaving behind a reputation for hard work and kindness.

Geraldine poured her heart into her hobbies and creative interests—sewing, knitting, crocheting, making stockings and quilts for loved ones, camping, canning, and cooking were among her greatest pleasures. Her handmade gifts will remain treasured keepsakes, forever linking generations of her family. As president of Wynochee Wildwood Park, she found fulfillment in community service, while her involvement with the pinnacle card club and her loyalty as a season ticket holder for Seattle Seahawks games brought her much joy.

Geraldine’s life was anchored by her deep bonds with her family. She is survived by her children: Michael (Karen) Stites, Cynthia (Richard) Johnson, and Maryanna Klahn (Kevin Wilmot). She also leaves behind her sister, Marie Broten, her sister-in-law Anita Klahn, and her nieces Elfie Zach and Juanita Van Wagner.

Geraldine’s spirit lives on in her grandchildren: Geri (Gerald) Ford, Don Stites, Reuben (Tracie) Pruett Jr. , Malina (Andy) Espinoza, Mathew Smith, Maxamillion Wilmot, Paula Boerner, and Angela (Steven) Simpson. As well as 20 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. Each of them will carry forward her memory and love.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Klahn; her parents, Melvin (Harry) and Elfrda Howe; her brothers Richard, Robert, and Chuck Sinclair; her sisters Barbara Peterson and Juanita Van Wagner.

A celebration of Geraldine’s remarkable life will be held on September 26, 2026, at 1:00 pm at Wynooche Wildwood Park, 530 Geissler Road, Montesano, WA 98563. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend and honor her memory together.

She will be deeply missed, and fondly remembered by all whose lives she touched.