Audrey Mae Wirkkala

Naselle. Washington resident Audrey M. Wirkkala, 76, passed peacefully on June 10, 2010 with loved ones by her side, in Kirkland, Washington. Audrey was born on January 4, 1934 in Astoria, Oregon, the daughter of Robert and Martha (Hedlund) Bailey. She was a graduate of Naselle High School. Audrey was known for her commitment to her community where she donated hours helping friends and neighbors. An avid photographer, over the years Audrey took many senior graduation pictures and contributed sports and other event photos to the Chinook Observer. Audrey's contribution to the Finnish Festival did not go unnoticed. Her photography exhibit was a sought-after display that rekindled cherished memories and stories of local descendents. Most recently, Audrey was an archivist at the Appelo Archive Center in Naselle where she restored and cataloged historic photos. While Audrey was known for her creative talents, her number one work-in-progress was her family. She is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Howard Wirkkala Jr. of Naselle, Washington; children Andy Wirkkala of Kennewick Washington; Jerry and Karen Wirkkala of Bothell, Washington; Julie Wirkkala of Washington, D.C., Jenelle Wirkkala of Seattle, Washington, and Chris Wirkkala of Kirkland, Washington; and grandchildren Evan, Rheanne, Natalie, Sydney, Baird, Taylor and Riley. Besides her parents Audrey is preceded in death by two siblings Shirley Bailey and Robert Bailey Jr. Her casket will be open at Penttila's Chapel by the Sea in Long Beach, Washington on Thursday from 1 until 7 PM. The casket will be closed at the service in Naselle. Audrey's funeral service will be held at the Naselle High School in Naselle, Washington on Friday, June 18, 2010 starting at 1:30 pm. Concluding graveside service immediately follows at Peaceful Hill Cemetery in Naselle with a luncheon reception following at the Naselle High School. Audrey had requested memorials in her memory be made to Seattle Children's Autism Center, 4909 25th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98105. Her guestbook is available at www.penttilaschapel.com.