1928
2021
CATHERINE (RAFFIN) ASPLUND
December 6, 1928 - October 7, 2021
Catherine Asplund passed away Oct. 7, 2021, in Chehalis, WA, at 92 years of age. She was born Dec. 6, 1928 in Cordenons, Italy. Catherine is survived by her three daughters, Christine (Chris) Langford of Chehalis, WA, Mary (Morry) Stafford of University Place, WA, and Susan (Mark) Kershisnik of Loveland, CO. Catherine is also survived by her brother, Louis Raffin; seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Catherine was preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, John Victor Asplund; her parents, Erminio and Carolina (Meiorin) Raffin; and brother, Paul Raffin.
After immigrating through Ellis Island in 1932, Catherine lived in St. Helens, OR, graduating as Valedictorian of her high school class. After high school, Catherine attended Oregon State (College) University where she met her husband, John. They married in St. Helens, in 1949. Catherine finished her college degree in Education at Southern Oregon State College. She worked at Green Hill School in Chehalis, was a substitute teacher at various schools, taught 5th grade at Roosevelt Elementary School in Rock Springs, WY, and worked in admissions at Portland Community College in Portland, OR.
Family was especially important to Catherine. She created a warm and welcoming home for her family throughout numerous moves within Oregon, Washington and Wyoming. Catherine was an accomplished seamstress, designing her own clothing. She loved entertaining, was an avid golfer, a skilled Bridge player, and active in research and investing. Catherine was a P.E.O. member who treasured her P.E.O sisters in the states of Wyoming, Oregon and Washington.
Catherine and John planned many camping trips with their daughters and family friends. Catherine loved traveling and returned to Italy several times to visit her family. After retirement, she and John began extended adventures visiting their daughters and exploring places of historical interest across the United States and overseas. Over the years, Catherine kept in touch with the many friends she and John made with each move, and she loved writing and receiving letters. Her friendships were such an important part of her life.
Catherine was gracious, welcoming, and a great conversationalist. Education was very important to her; she was persistent and strived for excellence throughout her life.
A private family memorial is planned for Catherine and John.
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4 Entries
May God's promise found in John 6:40, of the hope to see our loved ones again, comfort your heart and give you peace, strength, and hope in the days ahead.
J.
December 6, 2021
I was saddened to hear of Catherine's passing. She was such a lovely person. I enjoyed being with Catherine and John on beach trips and dinners at our homes. She surely will be missed.
Sharon Baker
Family
December 6, 2021
Catherine was a delightful person and will be missed.
Dorene Young
November 15, 2021
Cathrine was a great lady. I enjoyed talking with her and John. She will be greatly missed.
Love Karen (Christensen) Ropar
Karen Ropar
November 13, 2021
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