Freida McKie Obituary (1929

Frieda McKie, 84 passed peacefully Sept. 25, 2013 after a long and bravely fought battle with CHF. Frieda was born Feb. 16, 1929 at home through a midwife to her parents who had recently emigrated from Europe to escape the ravages of WW1. Frieda was the youngest in a family including 3 brothers. She graduated from West Technical High School in Cleveland and following a few years as a secretary for local doctors she attended Ohio State and Cleveland's Fairview Park Hospital obtaining a Nursing degree. Upon graduation, she worked in her field in Oberlin, Ohio but her sense of adventure took over and she accepted a position as a public health nurse in Ketchikan, AK where she flew in float planes to remote logging camps and villages to provide healthcare. At 35 years of age while still in Ketchikan, she chose from among her many suitors, the husband she would spend the next 47 years with, Ian McKie. Frieda gave birth to 3 children, Keith, Kevin and the last one, Valerie, arrived in 1973. The children added to an exciting, loving, happy, and outdoor life. Ian's environmental work took the family through the diverse and pleasing areas of NC, UT, DC, OR, WA and then to the Puget Sound area for retirement. Frieda lived a full and happy life. She loved and is loved by her family and friends. Frieda will be missed but her memory will live on and encourage future generations to live in a selfless, caring, and compassionate way.