Lois Kitts

Elmira, Oregon resident Lois E. Kitts, 95, died peacefully December 22, 2007 in Eugene. The daughter of pioneer Clackamas county residents James Wesley and Emma Theresa (Wilehart) Hylton, she was born in Oregon City on February 3, 1912. The family initially resided on a farm in the New Era area before moving to a farm on the outskirts of Canby. Lois graduated from Canby High School where she enjoyed sports. Following high school she worked for several physicians in Canby before moving to Portland where she was employed by National Hospital Association. Inspired by her sister-in-law Chrystle, Lois received her nursing education at the Multnomah County Hospital in Portland. Following graduation as a registered nurse Lois accepted a position at Fairview Hospital & Training Center in Salem. In August of 1958 she and Ray Kitts were married in Carson, Washington. Several years later they moved to Anchorage, Alaska where Lois again worked in state hospitals. Following the infamous Alaska earthquake Lois moved to Dexter, Oregon where she and Ray operated a trailer park before finally settling in Elmira. Lois nursed at Sacred Heart Hospital in Eugene until retirement. Throughout her life Lois was an avid reader and her mind was sharp until her death. In past years she enjoyed fishing, gardening and the companionship of her beloved dachshunds. She leaves an enduring legacy of compassion, understanding and kindness. Lois is survived by nephews Robert Hylton of Damascus, OR and Ronald (Elizabeth) Hylton of Chinook, Washington. She was preceded in death by her husband Ray and brother Lloyd Hylton. Memorial service will be Saturday, December 29, 2007, 1:00 PM at the Church of Christ in Elmira, Oregon. Private committal will be at Zion Memorial Park, Canby. Viewing will be Friday, 10 AM until 5 PM and Saturday, 9 AM until 12 noon at Poole-Larsen Funeral Home, 1100 Charnelton St., Eugene. Memorials may be made to the local animal shelter. Please sign the guestbook at www.penttilaschapel.com.