Gertrude N. Parker, 83, of Oak Harbor, died Feb. 17, 2003 at Careage of Whidbey, Coupeville. She was born July 10, 1919 in New York, New York to Elmer and Isabelle (Long) Nelson.

Gertrude’s family left New York and eventually settled in Los Angeles. She graduated from high school and attended Pepperdine University. She was married and left California, moving to the Minneapolis/St. Paul area of Minnesota. The terribly cold winters convinced the Parkers to move back to California. Her marriage eventually ended in divorce.

Gertrude was employed by Northrup Aviation for several years. She then worked for Mattel Toy Company in Hawthorne, Calif. Her last job was with MiraCoate Company, manufacturing bath fixtures.In 1985, Gertrude moved to Oak Harbor. She loved music and reading.

Mrs. Parker is survived by two sons and their spouses, Alan and Morrie Parker and Dennis and Nancy Parker, all of Oak Harbor. Six grandchildren and ten great grandchildren also survive. One grandchild preceded her in death.

Cremation was held with private family inurnment to follow at a later date. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Burley Funeral Chapel, Oak Harbor. This obituary may be seen on-line at http://burley.plan4ever.com.