Ardith Pauline Ille Obituary (1929

Ardith Pauline Ille of Mountlake Terrace, Washington was born on June 29, 1929, in Maive, Minnesota to Anton and Anna Kotlan (Stein). Ardith entered the pearly gates of heaven on December 31, 2023, in Everett, Washington at the age 94 1/2 while holding the hands of her youngest son and his daughter. Ardith lived a life full of love, wisdom, and cherished moments. She was a devoted Stanley Home Products dealer for nearly 40 years, sharing the gift of quality products and embodying resilient entrepreneurship. Ardith met Donald T. Ille while dancing and they were married on June 26, 1977. Their union created many shared experiences that spanned the globe. For 25 joyous years, they called a farm in Shelton, Washington their home, where they raised beef cattle. Ardith was a global adventurer and family historian, spending a few years traveling to meet, visit and create her family tree, a bucket list item to see the Panama Canal, visiting all 50 states, plus other countries, and even living in Japan. Each destination became a chapter, and the joy of discovery held a special place in her remarkable life. As a mother of five, she showered them with unconditional love, creating a treasure trove of memories that her children will always hold close to their hearts. As the grandkids increased grandma's kitchen was a haven of delicious recipes, inspiration, wisdom, and friendship, but also the secrets to a fulfilling life - kindness, generosity, and a dash of humor. Her journey through nine decades was a testament to resilience and grace. She witnessed a world evolve, yet her core values remained. She taught her family the importance of family gatherings, the joy that is found in simple pleasures, and the beauty of a life well-lived. From stories of her youth and the wisdom that she acquired; Ardith's life was rich with experiences. She took charge of every challenge with strength that left a mark on all who knew her. For the last 5 years of her life, Ardith was lovingly cared for by her youngest son and his daughter, another testament to the deep bond she shared with family. During this time, her strength and resilience showed even brighter as she faced many medical challenges, and her son and granddaughter provided unwavering support and love. Ardith had many titles in her life, "the farmer", "the entrepreneur", "the explorer" and the "family historian" and was a loving soul who touched countless hearts. Ardith will return home to the breathtaking sunsets of Alaska. There will be a Catholic Memorial Mass at St. Pius X located at 22301 58th Ave W Mountlake Terrace WA 98043 on February 9, 2024 at 10am an Afterlife Celebration for Ardith to follow at Matt's Shop 24111 Highway 99 Edmonds, WA 98026 behind the Burlington Coat Factory. Please call Miranda for the exact time at 206-313-6908. Memorial donations can be sent to 5308 228th Street SW Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043. Arrangements entrusted to Lewis Funeral Chapel in Bremerton, Washington.