Jacqueline Gilbert Dennis

Jackie, or “Mums” as she was known by her grandchildren, passed away peacefully at her home on February 9, 2010 as a result of cancer complications. Jackie was born on December 5, 1936 in Bozeman, Montana. She had a happy childhood growing up on a dairy farm amid the beautiful mountains and streams which surrounded Bozeman. Jackie was preceded in death by her parents, John Gilbert, Jr. and Rita (Hansen) Gilbert. She is survived by her sister, Georgene (Geeg) Gilbert Kyle (Donald), her former husband, H.L. Dennis, her son Jeff Dennis (Carolyn), their three daughters, Alisa Dennis, Krista Dennis, and Jenna Dennis, also, her daughter Pam McLaren (Gordon), and grandchildren, Chelsea Watson (Kit), Ashlea McLaren, and Bryce McLaren, and great Grandchildren, Casen, Hudson, and Kolter Watson. Following graduation from Gallatin County High School in 1954, Jackie attended Kinman Business School in Spokane, WA. Upon completion of her secretarial course, Jackie was hired as a secretary by The Boeing Company in Seattle. During her 22 years at The Boeing Company, she had worked her way up to become a top secretary for the Space Engineering Program. While Jackie’s children were young she took time off from Boeing to open Western Secretarial Service in her home. This venture lasted from 1962-1978.Jackie was a member of the Meridian Valley Garden Club for 48 years and leader of the Trails End 4-H Club. After retirement, Jackie continued her Boeing connections through their volunteer retiree program, The Bluebills, where she dedicated her time to multiple endeavors. Jackie could always be found with a smile on her face and a genuine desire to help anyone who needed her. Her greatest joy came from serving friends and family, who will miss her dedication and positive attitude.A memorial service to honor Jackie will be held Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 2:00 pm at Grace Community Church, 1320 Auburn Way South, Auburn, WA 98002.Memorials in Jackie’s name may be sent to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Attention: Donor Services, P.O. Box 650309, Dallas, Texas 75265-0309