Mildred “Elaine” (Rose) Mullenix, of Pe Ell, Washington, went to be with the love of her life on April 1, 2023, at the age of 92. She is smiling and talking once again.
Elaine was born in Vancouver, Washington, on Feb. 27, 1931, the oldest of Adam and Elva Rose’s three children. She grew up in Eastern Washington and moved to Pe Ell during her junior year of high school where she met Bill Mullenix. They graduated together in 1948 and then were married on Sept. 9, 1950. They raised their family in Pe Ell and enjoyed weekend getaways to the family beach house in North Cove and camping at Rimrock Meadows outside of Ephrata. She loved spending time with family and created amazing photo albums that document the lives of each grandchild. She was the No. 1 fan at sporting events, concerts and anything else she could attend to show her support. She was one of the original founders of a group called “Birthday Club” that lasted more than 50 years encompassing three generations of women. She was also part of the amazing group of women dubbed “Friends for Life.” They enjoyed getting together to celebrate each other’s birthdays while being the “kitchen crew” for many celebrations in the community.
Elaine was an amazing baker, known for her wonderful pies, cookies and jam. She was the family historian and loved having everyone over to celebrate any occasion. She balanced family and career while working as the manager for the Washington State fiEmployment Security office in Chehalis, serving on the Pe Ell City Council, the Board for the Pe Ell Medical Center, Lewis County Election Board and was active in the Methodist Church, Homecoming Committee and Booster Club. She treated everyone with respect and was known for her kindness.
Elaine is survived by three children, Teresa (Bud) Bush, Robert (Patricia) Mullenix and David (Cheryl) Mullenix; brothers, Leonard (Charmaine) Rose and Dwight (Joan) Rose; 10 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; one great-great grandson; and numerous nephews, nieces, great-nephews and great-nieces. Elaine was preceded in death by the love of her life, and husband for more than 70 years, Bill Mullenix; her parents, Adam and Elva Rose; grandson, Robbie Mullenix; honorary granddaughter, Haley Richards; and honorary sister, Ruthie Carlson.
Elaine’s love of family was not limited to blood. There are many around who referred to her as mom, grandma and auntie and were just as loved. She was an amazing person who will be greatly missed by so many. We are thankful for the wonderful memories that Elaine made with us and for us. We have many picture albums and VHS video tapes to remember her by. May you rest in peace. I know you are smiling, talking and having a happy time with our loved ones who have gone before you!
A viewing will be held at 10 a.m. April 14 at Pe Ell Methodist Church. A service will begin at 11 a.m. with a graveside service to follow at the Pe Ell Forest Lawn Cemetery and a celebration of life at the VFW hall in Pe Ell after the service.
Arrangements are under the care of Cattermole Funeral Home. Donations can be made to the Pe Ell Ambulance, PO Box 308, Pe Ell, WA 98572.
To view the obituary, please go to chronline.com/obituaries.
