Paula Jean Waitt, 77, passed away on Sunday, July 9, 2023, at Puget Sound Health Care in Olympia, Washington.
Paula was born on April 5, 1946, to Raymond LaFleche and Evelyn (Burdette) LaFleche in Haverhill, Massachusetts. Paula was the oldest daughter of four kids, and raised in Massachusetts, graduating from high school in 1963. After school, she met Clark Waitt, and they married on June 25, 1965, in Kingston, New Hampshire. The couple lived in Kingston, and began their family, having two children: a daughter, Michelle and son, Steve. Paula became a stay-at-home mom, raising her children. In 1975, the family moved to Elma, Washington for Clark’s career. After settling into their new home, they had their third child, son, Ryan. As the children got older, Paula entered back into the workforce. She started working with the Elma Bowling Alley, working and cooking in the kitchen. Paula started taking classes and earning certifications for her CNA License. She was later employed with the Elma Nursing Home, now Summit Pacific. She worked as both a cook and CNA for the nursing home. In 2011, Paula and Clark moved to their forever home in Montesano, Washington.
Paula enjoyed camping with her family. They always had a trailer, 5th wheel, or motorhome to get out and enjoy their many trips with each other. She also enjoyed taking motorcycle rides with her husband. She loved pottery, even took classes with her close friends. Paula had a wonderful green thumb and was always maintaining her flowers and garden.
She is preceded in death by her parents, stepfather, and brother, Raymond LaFleche Jr.
Paula is survived by her husband of 58 years, Clark Waitt of Montesano, Washington; daughter, Michelle (Chris) Greninger of Aberdeen, Washington; sons, Steve (Jane) Waitt of Montesano, Washington; and Ryan (Dena) Waitt of Spokane, Washington; sisters: Judy LaFleche of Hampstead, New Hampshire and Donna Cooper of Exeter, New Hampshire; many grandchildren; and a few great-grandchildren who Paula loved very dearly.
A private family service will be held at a later date. If you wish to leave a memory or note of condolence for the family, please visit www.fernhillfuneral.com. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, Washington.
