Harriett Ethelyn Johnson Albertus

Nov. 7, 1920—Jan. 6, 2006

Harriett Albertus, Friday Harbor High School librarian and teacher from 1970 to 1991, has died.

Surrounded by family and friends, she died in her home in Sumner, Wash., from pancreatic cancer. She was 85.

Born in Clovis, Calif., in 1920, Harriett lived in California, Oregon and Washington. At 50, she returned to college — Eastern Washington State College — and earned a B.A. in General Studies and a B.A. in Education.

After student teaching in Sultan, Wash., she moved to Friday Harbor to teach at the high school and manage the library. She retired in 1991 after 20 years of service.

Ever curious, always learning, with a brave heart and giving spirit, Harriett shared her joy of living and positive outlook with family and friends. Her greatest joy was being a mother.

She is survived by her three daughters, Layne Williams (Monterey, Calif.), Christine Doe (Edgewood, Wash.), and Sarah Albertus (Salem, Ore.); her daughter-in-law, Nancy Albertus (Spokane, Wash.); eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Her son, Bruce Albertus, preceded her in death.

As she wished, there will be no public service. Remembrances may be made in her honor to Good Samaritan Foundation, Hospice Program Fund, Puyallup, Wash.