Rosalie Charlotte Schwalier died March 18, 2008 at her home in Coupeville at the age of 85. She was born Aug. 31, 1922 in Osakis, Minn. to Wallace and Clara (Nelson) Larson.

Rosalie was raised in Minnesota. She was married to Charles D. Schwalier on May 2, 1942 in Moorehead, Minn. Charles was an officer with the

U. S. Army Air Force and then the U.S. Air Force. During World War II, Charles was sent to the Pacific Theater and Rosalie returned to Minnesota with daughter Christine.

When Charles returned to the states, Rosalie and the family followed his career, living in Guam, Thailand, Germany, Florida, and the longest tour in Riverside, Calif. Charles retired in 1974 and they spent time in Colorado and Riverside. They soon discovered Whidbey Island, and Coupeville became home. Together, they built their dream home on Pheasant Farm Acres.

Rosalie was first and foremost a loving, caring, giving wife and mother. Her family always came first. She was a gracious hostess and distinguished military wife. She served proudly as president of the Officer’s Wives Club while stationed at Ramstein Air Force Base in Germany. She was also a quiet person and appreciated her privacy. She enjoyed oil painting and gardening.

Rosalie is survived by her husband of 65 years, Charles Schwalier, Col. USAF (Ret) at the family home; three children, Christine Hirtzel of Grants Pass, Ore., Terry Schwalier, Major. Gen. USAF (Ret) of Coupeville, and Charles Schwalier II, Cmdr. USN (Ret) of Jefferson, Colo.; sister Jean Olstad of Hot Springs, Ark.; four grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one son, David Schwalier.

Memorial services for Rosalie Schwalier were held Friday, March 21, at the Oak Harbor Lutheran Church with Rev. Jay Decker officiating. Cremation was held with family inurnment on Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at Olivewood Cemetery, Riverside, Calif. Arrangements are entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel in Oak Harbor.