Elizabeth Hjelm

Elizabeth L. Hjelm, 60, died at her Ocean Park residence on February 22, 2009. The daughter of Bernard and Helen (Joyce) Raff, she was born in Ilwaco on August 1, 1948. Elizabeth was one of 8 children and she and her siblings grew up in Naselle and on the Peninsula where she graduated from Ilwaco High School in 1966. Liz worked as an oyster shucker at Jolly Roger Seafoods in Nahcotta for many years. She loved life and lived it to the fullest. Among her many interests she enjoyed clamming, beach combing, storm and sunset watching and listening to the rhythm of the rain on roofs. During summer she picked blackberries and wild flowerspoppies being her favorites. Running her dog Junior and bike riding were also enjoyed. Elizabeth was the mother of five children. She taught them to drive on the beach and they spent many evenings together around a bonfire. She always said what was in her heart, was a cancer survivor, and over the years enjoyed many adventures and friendships. She found peace at the last. Surviving are children Cindy Ann Lorton, Robert Lorton, Mike Lorton, Tina Chambers and Jesse Hjelm; brothers Bill Raff and Jim Raff; sisters Joyce Kilburn, Mary Tufts, Susan Raff and Judy Matteson; 10 grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Her brother Junior Raff died earlier. A family gathering will be held August 2, 2009 followed by a sunset sendoff at North Head Lighthouse. Cremation arrangements by Penttila's Chapel by The Sea and Pacific Crematory, Long Beach.