Ethel Loraine Crutcher, 93, of Port Townsend, Washington, passed peacefully on February 9, 2020, surrounded by family and friends.
Ethel was born in Port Ludlow, Washington, on August 6, 1926 to Ernest and Edith Johnson, and graduated from Chimacum High School in 1944.
Not long after graduation, Ethel met and married Ivan Crutcher. They were married until his passing in 1996.
Ethel worked as an instructional aide for the Port Townsend School District, retiring after 20 years in 1987. She served in several special service programs including special education, speech therapy, Chapter One and physical therapy. One of the favorite activities at Grant Street Elementary was leading the children on a hike through the woods up Deadman’s Hill:
“Let’s take a hike, Up to
Deadman’s Hill
Meet at the garbage can,
Mrs. Crutcher will.
Follow the leader, watch out
For snakes
Mrs. Crutcher, Mrs. Crutcher
Don’t be late!”
Mrs. Telling’s Class
Sung at Assembly
June 12, 1987
She actively volunteered at the local food bank. Beloved by many, Ethel was always willing to help neighbors in need. Her generosity and compassion for those in need are legend. We who are fortunate enough to count her as family or friend are richer for having her in our lives. She will be missed.
One of Ethel’s passionate pursuits was the construction of a cabin on the beach at Marrowstone Island. From a plot of land to camp on, to a small cabin and finally a two-story home, the cabin became a place of joy and a source of great memories for family members and friends. Of note were the famous Fourth of July parties Ethel and Ivan hosted for over 25 years.
From hiking the trails of the Olympic Mountains, camping on the beaches of the Washington Coast to soaking in the hot springs of Sol Duc, Ethel enjoyed the outdoors and all the Olympic Peninsula had to offer. Mt. Townsend was her favorite, a journey that rewards the hiker with fields of wildflowers at the summit and spectacular views of the Olympics.
Ethel is preceded in death by her husband Ivan Crutcher.
She is survived by her son David “Skip” Crutcher, cousins, nieces, nephews and many good friends.
