Elenora Evelyn Hillis

ELENORA EVELYN (Hundis) HILLIS Elenora E. Hillis, 90, a lifelong resident of Naselle, Washington, died in Astoria, Oregon on September 18, 2009. One of six children born to Finnish immigrants Matt and Matilda (Lindstrom) Hundis, she was born on the family farm in Naselle on May 29, 1919. An outstanding student, Elenora attended Naselle grade, graduated early from Naselle High School and graduated from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon with a bachelor's degree in education. Elenora met and married Martin "Mart" Hillis and their first home was in Waitsburg, Washington. They soon returned to Naselle where Elenora became a wife, mother and homemaker. When her children were older Elenora returned to teaching at Naselle High School. There she taught history, math and physical education. She also was the debate team mentor and the drama coach. During summer months she returned to college and obtained her master's degree. Elenora retired in the mid 1970s but always one to stay busy she worked at Doupe' Brothers department store in Ilwaco as a clerk in the men's clothing section. Elenora was a lifelong member of the Naselle Congregational Church where she was active in the Martha's Circle. In past years she was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Woman's Auxiliary and served on the election board in Naselle. Proud of her Finnish ancestry Elenora was active in the Naselle FinnFest where she wrote and directed plays for this community festival. Gardening, writing, reading, politics and swimming were just some of Elenora's many interests and walks outdoors along the banks of local rivers, in the woods and at the beach where favorite pastimes. She was also an avid photographer who spent countless hours in her darkroom perfecting her techniques in the days before digital technology. She felt blessed to have a loving family and many friendships. She also sold insurance for Grange Mutual and wrote for local newspapers. Elenora is survived by her daughter Karen Jansma of Chinook, WA; grandchildren Kimberly Helvey, Brian Peters, Courtney Lanning and Lisa Colombo; and great-grandchildren Zakk Lundberg and Isabella and Sophia Colombo. The last surviving member of her family, she was preceded in death by siblings Eino, Heino, and Alfred Hundis, Rauha Sasse and Helena Simila. Her son Michael died in 2002. Funeral service will be Sunday, September 27, 2009, 2:00 PM at the Naselle Congregational Church. Graveside service follows at Peaceful Hill Cemetery in Naselle with a reception at the church. The casket will be open at the church prior to the service. Memorials may be made to the Peaceful Hill Cemetery Association, PO Box 47, Naselle, Washington 98638. The guestbook is available at www.penttilaschapel.com.