Another Skagit native has passed from this valley. Florence was the first born of Edd and Lillian Clair in Mount Vernon followed by sibling Doris, Howard and Mildred.

She attended various local schools, graduating from Mount Vernon High.

She married Sven R. Newman in 1932 in Mount Vernon. Beverly and Carl were born and the family followed the jobs to various locations. In 1943 Sven hired on with Civil Service in Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island after which Nancy was born.

Florence was widely known for her loom woven rugs and prolific handiwork which earned her sweepstake honors at fairs and served as barter with door to door salesmen and even the local dentist. She was active in the Whidbey Homemakers, Organ and Rock clubs.

Florence and Sven retired to west Burlington in the early 70s. Sven passed away in 1975, her parents both in 1977. Not one to be idle, Florence became a regular on the banks of the Skagit at the Spud House snagging steelhead. She was active in the Mount Vernon and Burlington Senior Centers and was once selected the RSVP Volunteer of the Year.

Surviving her are daughters, Beverly Chapman of Mount Vernon; Nancy Joy and husband, Bill of Birdsview; daughter-in-law, Louise Newman of Mount Vernon and sister-in-law, Lily Glassmeyer of Mount Vernon; plus 5 generations of descendants in addition to numerous nieces and nephews. Private interment was at the Burlington Cemetery. Donations to the Meals on Wheels program through the Burlington Senior Center would be most appreciated. Arrangements are under the direction of Lemley Chapel, Sedro-Woolley.