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1934
2021
GLENNA RAE VAN BOXTEL
April 1, 1934 ˜ June 6, 2021
Glenna Rae (Durham, Speratos) Van Boxtel passed away June 6, 2021, at the Ray Hickey Hospice House at the age of 87.
Glenna was born in Swain, AR, April 1, 1934. Her parents homesteaded 40 acres and built a log cabin. While living there with sons Hershel, Paul, and Ron, Glenna and Jimmie were born. Life was tough and a three-year drought devastated their attempts to grow any crops. When Jimmie was seven months old the family of seven, plus three other people decided to travel west. They rode in the back of an old pickup truck with only their bedding and camping gear heading for Washington State. Carol was born later after they settled in Port Angeles, WA. Glenna married George Speratos and settled in Vancouver, WA, in 1961 with her daughter and son. She was employed with First Independent Bank for 19 years. She loved the banking profession and was supervisor of a large number of teller staff at the Hazel Dell branch for many years. In 1976 Glenna became the first female to be promoted to a bank manager position. She was assigned the Sifton branch. The following year she opened the brand-new Brush Prairie branch managing both until her retirement in 1980. Glenna raised her children, attended night courses to achieve her bachelor’s degree and served on various committees and business associations throughout those years. Glenna married Vernon (Van) Van Boxtel in 1974, so upon retirement it was the high seas for them. They loved to cruise and made many trips throughout the Caribbean and Bahamian islands going through the Panama Canal twice and a couple of trips to Alaska. They also were able to visit Japan and spent many winters in Kona, HI.
Glenna is survived by her daughter, Roni Stephens (Mark); Van’s children, John Van Boxtel (Carol), Ardis Nelson (Curt), Glen Van Boxtel (Betty), Gary Leroy (Rita), and Lynn Reichmann. Glenna had 18 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first husband, George Speratos; second husband, Vernon Van Boxtel; son, Lee Speratos; parents, Pearl and Lee Durham; and brothers, Hershel, Paul, and Ron.
Her memorial will be held at 1 p.m. July 17, 2021, at The Gathering Place church in Vancouver, WA. The family of Glenna wishes to thank the medical professionals at PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center and the Ray Hickey Hospice House in Vancouver, WA.
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5 Entries
Glenna was my neighbor for the majority of my childhood. However, she was so much more than just a neighbor. She was a beloved friend. We traded plants, stories and hugs. I am grateful to have had many meaningful visits with her and our families over the years and especially recently. I will surely miss her laugh and beautiful face. We have lost her way too soon. My thoughts are with her family at this difficult time as I know their hearts are breaking. I miss you beautiful lady!!
Donna Ottman
Friend
July 8, 2021
Glenna trained both myself and older sister Joan at First Independent Bank. And I remember you, Roni coming into the Bank and your Mom was so proud of you.
I am so sorry for your loss.
Glenna was a wonderful woman and Boss.
Ann Lechtenberg/Reiberg
June 30, 2021
My mom was a "mom" to many. She loved everyone and helped so many people in a multitude of ways. Always willing to lend an ear or a hand to whoever had a need. She was ready to meet her Lord and through the tears I know I will see her again.
Roni Stephens
Family
June 30, 2021
I'm so sad that my grandma died she was the best grandma. I would come over and always have coffee and cookies and I will never forget what all you have done for me. I miss you so much but I'll see you again in the next life in heaven I'm so happy your in a better place but I will never forget about you grandma you are very missed and I love you grandma .
Garrett Ruedi
Family
June 28, 2021
Roni, So sorry to read of the loss of your Mother. I will keep your Mom and you in my thoughts and prayers.
With wishes for peace and comfort in the days ahead.
Colleen Torrens
Colleen Torrens
June 26, 2021
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