Lula I. Stecker, 99 and three-quarters, was born Feb. 24, 1911, in Douglas County, Mo., and passed away Nov. 20, 2010, at the Hospice Care Center.

Lula was an inspiration, a blessing to all whose lives she touched. Her radiant smile lit up a room and made others feel welcome. She made thousands of quilts for the Veteran’s Administration Hospital, orphanages, nursing homes, Mothers of Preschoolers, Medical Teams International and church bazaars. You could find her every Memorial Day weekend handing out poppies, an important commitment to her.

She was a beloved and respected member of the Cowlitz County Democratic Women’s Club and the oldest active member of the organization.

She enjoyed extensive travel and lived all over the Midwest, but the Pacific Northwest was her home. She nearly made it to her 100th birthday party in February which she was looking forward to with her typical enthusiasm. Her church was an important part of her life and her faith was strong. Her years on Earth neared 10 decades, but her youthful spirit remained. Her interest and joy in living continued undiminished all the days of her life. She will be forever cherished and will remain always in the memories and hearts of family and friends. Her shining smile will reach out to us, extending a welcome when we meet again.

On March 28, 1931, she married Einer Christenson in Minnesota. He preceded her in death Oct. 5, 1970.

Lula married Joseph Scheib Aug. 7, 1976, in Colorado. He preceded her May 16, 1977.

She moved to Longview, Wash., in 1981 and on Aug. 21, 1982, Lula married Raymond Stecker. He preceded her April 28, 1993.

Lula is survived by four children Roger (Dang) Christenson of Crescent City, Calif., Ardis (Carl) Swenson of Maple Grove, Nels (Elnora) Christenson of Ava, Mo., and Carolyn Chris (George Britzius) Nelson of Kelso, Wash.; a brother, Lawrence McGill of Albert Lea; a sister-in-law, Marcella Christensen of Dawson; 16 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husbands, Lula was preceded in death by five brothers and four sisters.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at Longview Community Church, Longview, Wash., with the Rev. John Williams and the Rev. Dr. Harlan Gilliland officiating.

A celebration of Lula’s life will be held at 1 p.m. Dec. 6 at Grace Lutheran Church in Alden. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the church.

Arrangements are by Columbia Funeral Service.