Cola Jean Webster, beloved Mother, Grandmother and sister passed away at the age of 83 on December 19, 2023 in Mount Vernon, Wa.  She was born on February 28, 1940 in Nebraska City, Nebraska, daughter of Frank and Gene Chapin .

Oldest of four children, Cola acquired her name from the Coca-Cola logo of the bottling plant which her father managed for many years in Nebraska City. Her name was always a topic of conversation.

Cola excelled in school and was an accomplished pianist and clarinet player. She loved the water and was an excellent swimmer and waterskiier.

In 1957, her family moved from Nebraska City to Long Beach, California seeking more opportunities.  Upon graduation, she worked in Yellowstone National Park for two summers, including 1959 when the devastating earthquake hit.

Upon return to Long Beach, Cola worked briefly for Southern California Edison then eventually moved to Tacoma, WA. where she began work with Weyerhauser in their accounting department.  Many years and promotions later, she decided to move north to Anacortes, WA. where she raised her daughter (Pelar) and started working in plywood mills.

Cola dedicated many years to millwork and management rolls in the industry.  Anacortes plywood mill encountered a devastating fire leading Cola to seek more millwork and new residency in Bellingham, WA.  She continued this occupation until partially retiring in 2005 when she decided to settle in Mount Vernon, WA. so she could be close to her daughter and two grandchildren.

Cola dedicated her life to her family, ensuring she was always available to help. She wholeheartedly gave to her family and friends, bringing immense joy and laughter to their lives.

Cola is preceded in death by her two younger sisters, Christine McArdle of Jupiter, FL., Claire Thornton of Greensboro, NC, her daughter, Pelar Holmes of Burlington, WA. and her two grandchildren, Vincent Holmes of Burlington, WA. and Chesah Holmes of Burlington, WA.

Please visit www.hawthornefh.com to share your thoughts and memories and sign the online guest register.