Obituary

Violet “Vi” Rose Wylam passed away quietly on Monday, March 27, 2023, at PeaceHealth Medical Center in Bellingham, in the presence of her two daughters.  Violet was born February 8, 1928, to Joseph and Angela (Hanulka) Smaciaz in Chehalis, Washington.  Violet was the wife of Gordon Dean Wylam, who died in 1958.  She was a devoted and caring mother who singly raised her two young daughters.

Violet grew up in Pe Ell, Washington, on a family farm with five sisters and three brothers. She graduated from Pe Ell High School in 1946. After graduation, she moved to Centralia to start her career with Pacific Northwest Telephone Company as a phone operator for nine years; she referred to this as her “best” job.  In 1956, she left the phone company to raise a family.  A few years later, she returned to work as deputy clerk in the Lewis County Treasurer’s Office, retiring in 1990.  After retirement, Violet volunteered at St. Mary’s Catholic Church taking on several weekly duties.  She was a faithful parishioner for over 70 years.

Violet touched the hearts of many with her kindness, quick wit, generosity, straightforward disposition, and sweet smile. She always had time to talk to friends and make them feel special. She enjoyed shopping and staying current with fashion trends which she tastefully incorporated into her home.  She was an avid gardener, kept a manicured yard, plus vegetable and flower garden. But most of all, she was a great mom, grandma, and friend.  Faith, family, and friends meant the world to her.  Mom, you were one in a million and we will deeply miss you!

Violet is survived by her two daughters: Cindy (John) Andersen and Jane Wylam Moore; four grandsons; Brian Andersen, Brett (Halee) Andersen, Sean (Erin) Moore and Alex (Caitlyn) Moore; two great-granddaughters, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; son-in-law James; sisters, Stella Gehlert, Josephine Pemerl, Julia Brewer, Edith Richter, Logie Howell; and brothers, Steve, Andy, and Joe Smaciaz.

Funeral service will be held on Friday, April 21, 2023, at 11 am at Sticklin Funeral Chapel, 1437 South Gold Street, Centralia, WA.

Donations may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church or your favorite charity.