Erma Jean Widman

July 31, 1927 - October 20, 2017

Erma Jean Widman ( also known as Ermie, EJ, or Granny Goodpies) passed away at her home in Rosalia, WA on October 30, 2017 at the age of 90. Family, friends, and community admired her patience, counseling, dependability, common sense, git-er-done attitude, uncomplicated solutions, ministry of hospitality, and unassuming enjoyment of life. Erma died from lung cancer that spread to her brain. She was born in Sunset, WA to Will and Eva (Lowry) O’Keeffe on July 31, 1927. Brother Max joined the family in 1937. Life was good but times were tough. They farmed, they moved several times, they had faith in God. She often recalled, “No one ever told me we were poor. I had great parents, and lots of wonderful relatives and friends. What else do you need?” She began school in Sunset, then St.John , and finally graduated from Rosalia in 1945. The great depression, WWII and rationing had a lasting impact. Appreciation for simple pleasures lasted a lifetime. Being resourceful was a way of life. Life wasn’t about what you could have, it was about what you could do. “In 1946 I married George Widman and we were blessed with 4 children: Larry, Bill, Gary and Mary. Time brought us in-laws, grandchildren, great grands, adopted, steps and a multitude of nieces and nephews, cousins and sisters-in law. All have enriched my life beyond measure.” “In 1985 I was widowed and I asked the Lord ‘what would you have me do now?’ In a voice that was audible to me the answer came: 'Your mission is in Rosalia’… so I became even more involved in as many community activities as possible.” Ermie was a farm wife homemaker dedicated to family and community. She served as a role model in living a Christian life and serving others. Raised in an era when there was no electricity, indoor plumbing, or phones, she appreciated simple things, but also marveled at the incredible technological advancements that were made during her lifetime. Always willing to try something new and never shirking from hard work, she tackled numerous projects, large and small. In typical fashion, the ones she was most proud of were the ones that benefited others, like spearheading passage of a major school bond for remodel, or helping to organize the Gifted Granny Shop, or maintaining the Rosalia Museum…she loved to share appreciation for those who settled the early days of the town, or giving away baked goods and garden produce to countless visitors, or maintaining a record of high school alumni, or helping to raise children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Need a pianist / organist? Erma sat on the bench at the United Methodist Church for 60+ years as well as playing for countless school events, receptions, weddings, funerals, and parties. "The sad thing is that I am still making the same mistakes." Ever been to a Variety Show in Rosalia? Ermie probably helped with organization of the production. Ermie enjoyed playing cards, gardening, farming, and sewing…”my sewing room is a disaster with unfinished projects.” She enjoyed baking, cooking, writing, historical preservation, and road trips…”driving across the country with family is filled with special memories,” she put in her writings. She loved watching wildlife, quiet times of contemplation, and companionship of others. Many have suggested that Erma’s greatest trait was that of simple hospitality, the ability to make others feel welcome and appreciated. She was able to listen. We all will miss the hours sitting around her kitchen table with family, friends, and sometimes strangers, telling stories, laughing, playing games, reuniting, counseling, and sometimes even eating. Oh yes…sharing a meal was special…because she could whip up a 4 course meal in 15 minutes and make it look easy and planned. “To all of you that I like to call my friend, I thank you for the many ways that you have helped me along the way and filled my life with happy memories. Thanks for sharing the good and the bad times with me. Life has been great. Practice the Golden Rule, make someone smile today and enjoy the many gifts that God has given us.” A Memorial Service will be held for Erma Jean on Sunday, November 12th at 2 pm at the Rosalia United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her honor and memory can be made to Rosalia United Methodist Church, PO Box 202, or Rosalia Museum, PO Box 277, Rosalia, WA 99170