Long-time Silverdale resident Doreen Wixson died Oct. 21, 2013, surrounded by her loving family.

Mary Doreen Hanke was born in Chehalis, Sept. 2, 1934, to Henry F. and Gladys C. (Setter) Hanke. She graduated from Chehalis’ West High School in 1952, and worked at Montgomery Ward until her marriage on May 1, 1954, to Mahlon S. Wixson. The couple moved to Bremerton and soon purchased their family home in Silverdale where they raised their family. Doreen was a member of the Silverdale Homemakers and a Sewing 4-H leader. She was well known for her green thumb and beautiful gardens, was an avid collector of Precious Moments figurines; and most importantly, a loving wife, mother, and devoted friend.

Doreen was also an exceptionally strong woman who lived her life with grace and this was never more evidenced than in her long battle against breast cancer.

She is survived by her children, Vicky Wixson-Henderson of Saratoga, Calif., Yvette Wixson of Tumwater, and David (Carolyn) Wixson of Silverdale; grandchildren, Lauren and Brett Henderson, Gailon Wixson-Pursley, and Ryan Wixson; brother-in-law Gail Wixson of Huntington, Ark.; sister-in-law Minnie Wixson of Hoquiam; brother-in-law, Bob Putman of Seabeck; and nieces Cindy Badgett, Candy Regan, and Denise Rawlins; and her beloved dachshund, Blu. She was preceded in death by her husband, Mahlon; son, Brian, and infant son, Richard; infant grandsons Andrew and Bryant Henderson; her sister, Patricia Putman, and her parents.

Services were held Oct. 26, at Lewis Funeral Chapel, Bremerton. In lieu of flowers, donations to Breast Cancer Research Foundation at 60 East 56th St., 8th Floor, New York, NY, 10022, are requested.