Harriet Erickson Stangland, 91, died at home on January 16, 2016. She was born in Portland, Oregon in May 1924, the first child of Swedish immigrants.

She attended Oregon State College where she met Gordon Stangland after the war. They were married in 1948 and together built one of the first ski areas in California near Lake Tahoe. In 1954 they settled in Placerville, Calif. where they raised their three children and operated an earth moving construction business, retiring in 1980. In 1995 they moved to Tonasket to share in the life of their only grandchild, Johanna.

Harriet was devoted to her family and always considered the needs of others. She was community minded and participated in numerous clubs, boards and activities during her lifetime. Before Gordon died in 2011, they designated a substantial donation to help build a community swimming pool in Tonasket. She became passionate about the project and had hoped to live to see the pool completed. To that end, those wishing to honor her memory may kindly make a donation to the Tonasket Swimming Pool, PO Box 1217, Tonasket, WA 98855.

She stated that she never wanted to set the world on fire and that caring for her family was what she valued most and she did that admirably. She said she had a wonderful life and was happy with the way things turned out. Her family is grateful for her love, generosity and ever present support and encouragement as well as her pies, cookies and wonderful meals. For those who were lucky enough to know her, she cherished your friendship. Remember her smile, positive attitude and generosity.

Harriet was preceded in death by her husband, Gordon, brother, Rudy Erickson and daughter, Katy Stangland. She is survived by her son David, (Catherine), daughter, Karen and granddaughter Johanna whom she described as the “light of her life.”

At her request there will be no memorial service.