Doris spent her early childhood in the Värmland region of Sweden. When her parents moved the family to Spokane Washington, Doris and her brother Oscar quickly adjusted to life in America. Doris loved school and spent her free time ice skating, playing the piano, and singing in her church choir. After graduation, she held positions at the Spokane Chronicle and at New York Life.

Doris met Ralph Eliasen while he was on leave from the Navy during World War II, and the couple was married in 1951. They bought a new home in Seattle in 1953 and raised two daughters. During the 1960s and 1970s the family enjoyed vacationing on their boat the Nesaile II, and Doris was active in the Everett Yacht Club and Possession Sound Power Squadron, where she served as “Commanderette” in 1966-71. Ralph died in 1977, and Doris turned more of her attention to her career. She worked for nearly 20 years at Shoreline Savings & Loan, first in Lake City then in Ballard. During this time, Doris was made a corporate officer of the bank and developed a strong love of working with the public – a passion that would stay with her all her life. Doris retired in 1984 and was delighted to spend more time with friends and family. She also enjoyed drawing and painting and was voted president of Seattle’s Swedish Club Arts Group. An avid gardener, Doris always had a bountiful harvest of vegetables, flowers, and berries to share.

In 2003 Doris moved to Vashon Island, and for the past five years she lived in the assisted living section of the Vashon Community Care Center. At the VCCC Doris was fortunate to be surrounded by caring, loving staff, residents, family, and friends. Doris could most often be found in the lobby area greeting visitors. Doris also enjoyed Breaktime parties and activities, and was especially pleased to teach a few favorite Swedish phrases to those who were interested. Doris will be greatly missed by her granddaughters Kristina and Sonja Weder, her daughter Sandra Weder and Jim Weder of Sedona Arizona, and her daughter Karen Eliasen and Glenda Pearson of Vashon Island, as well as the many people who counted on Doris to remind them that she genuinely loved them and that they are wonderful. Remembrances may be made to the Vashon Community Care Center.

(paid obituary)