Janet Kimball

Janet Elizabeth Kimball, of Rosburg, died May 24, 2019 at Hospice Care Center in Longview at the age of 82.

She was born in Bagley, Minn., on July 20, 1936 to Windsor and Annie (Johnson) Benson. Janet graduated from high school there and married Claude Kimball on March 5, 1955.

She came from a family of teachers and public servants who also farmed their land. In 1969 they moved to Rosburg, eventually settling in the home that she would reside in for 46 years.

In 1987 Claude was killed in a car accident so Janet was busy keeping her home and family together. She was a devoted homemaker who canned, gardened, baked and entered her prize-winning goods in the Wahkiakum County Fair. She loved watching the Portland Trailblazers, her flowers, her chicken collection and time with her pinochle friends. She was a clerk at the Rosburg Store for 25 years and was well loved there. Janet was proud of her Norwegian heritage and her membership in the Cowlitz Valley VFW Post 1045 Auxiliary.

Survivors include sons Dan (Suzanne) Kimball, Jeff (Sandy) Kimball, Tim Kimball, Steve (Jill) Kimball; daughter Tami (Leon) Wheeldon; brothers Garfield and James Benson; 12 grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded by her grandson James Kimball.

A graveside service will be held Sunday, June 2 at Grays River Cemetery with a celebration of life luncheon to follow at Rosburg Hall. Viewing will take place Friday, May 31, from 4-6 p.m., at Dowling Funeral Home in Cathlamet. In lieu of flowers those who wish may contribute in Janet’s name to Grays River Fire and Ambulance Foundation, PO Box 10, Rosburg, WA 98643. Dowling Funeral Home is charge of arrangements.