Adeline Louella Thornquist passed away peacefully at her Columbia Beach home, with her son Ron by her side, on March 31, 2007. She joins her beloved husband of 62 years, Leo Thornquist, who preceded her in death nine years ago.

She was born Jan. 22, 1916, in Minot, N.D., to Patrick and Louise Gleason.

Adeline met Lee in Seattle and they were married on Dec. 11, 1936. Their early married years were spent tending their small farm in Factoria. They moved to Whidbey Island in 1968 and Adeline took a job outside the home as a grocery checker at Pay-Less.

Adeline kept a spotless house and was a “culinary goddess” with an amazing recipe collection that she freely shared. She even developed her own recipes for use with her new bread machine. Her knowledge of cooking and canning was extensive and anything from her kitchen was homemade with heaps of love and flavor. Her 100-proof rum balls will be missed by many.

She was an avid gardener and neighbors and friends along Columbia Beach were often the lucky recipients of the bounty of her well-tended garden. Adeline was strong in her faith and always had a prayer ready for those in need.

After 91 years, Adeline is survived by her two sons, Ronald of Clinton and Richard of Federal Way; two grandchildren, Amy Thornquist of Puyallup and Patrick Thornquist of Everett; and one great-granddaughter, Haley Thornquist of Everett. She leaves extended family in Yakima and many neighbors and friends, some of whom will always remember her fondly as “Grandy.”

Adeline will be remembered for her wit and humor, the fantastic goodies from her kitchen, her late afternoon cocktail dubbed the “Grandtini” and for her loving ways. Her husband Lee was fond of saying, “Better days are coming.” Now for Adeline better days are finally here.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Good Cheer Food Bank.