Saturday, June 21, 2025
Evelyn (Evie) Eleanor Nordeen (Peterson) was born on May 13th, 1930, in Portland, Oregon, the City of Roses. She was a child of the Great Depression, but because of her mom’s wonderful cooking and canning and dad’s work ethic, they felt fortunate. On her walks to school, she created life-long friends. Her nursing interest started at a young age by “performing surgery” on her dolls. She had a wonderful sense of curiosity.
Her love of music started early as well. Her parents bought a piano, and she started lessons. Her family was very involved with church activities at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Portland. Growing up, her family took Sunday adventures up to Mount Tabor City Park for afternoon picnics. Years later, there were drives to Seaside to visit her uncles.
Evie graduated from Franklin High School and was accepted to Pacific Lutheran College (later PLU). Evie was enrolled in the first class of the nursing program and was one of two that graduated in 1952. Her first postgraduate nursing position was at American Lake Psychiatric Hospital.
While at school, she spotted Bob Nordeen, singing in the choir. She was hooked! Bob was stationed at Fort Lewis, but made many trips to PLU and Portland to see Evie and her family. Evie made sure that every minute of the weekend was filled with adventure. Their romance grew strong, and on June 11, 1955, they were married. They shared 54½ years together.
They moved to Lynnwood and joined Trinity Lutheran Church in 1960. Evie was a member of church circle and taught Sunday School. She loved the music programs and the pipe organ concerts.
Evie continued her nursing career at Lynnwood Manor and the Public Health Department, finishing with the Edmonds and Northshore School District.
They raised two boys, David and Steve, who live in Lynnwood and Edmonds. They created many life-long friends in the area. Evie and Bob loved hosting parties, especially “theme parties.” They loved to travel, and had many friends along the way. In their retirement, they traveled to Sweden, Arizona, Florida, and went on multiple trips around the Northwest.
Evie loved working with the Sno-King school retirees and being on the scholarship committee and sending out greeting cards. She loved attending concerts and plays. She was very proud of her Swedish heritage. She enjoyed scrapbooking and her photo albums.
She died peacefully, surrounded by her family on May 8, 2025, at the age of 94. Her legacy is a kind friend to all, education supported, and most definitely her faith in God. She was truly loved and touched many lives. She is now home with Jesus.
She is survived by her sons David (Fredericka) and Steve (Susan); grandchildren Nicole (Keith), Matthew (Seanna), and Mari (Noah); and great-grandson Kellan.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Trinity Lutheran Church music and organ concert committees.
Service at Trinity Lutheran Church Wednesday, May 28, at 3:30 p.m.
