Doris Mardell Graeber-Bruno
March 29, 1932 - September 29, 2024
Obituary
Doris Mardell Graeber-Bruno (née Thompson) passed away peacefully on September 29, 2024, at the age of 92 in Puyallup, Washington. Born on March 29, 1932, in Spaulding, Iowa, to Ora and Lina Thompson, Doris was the youngest of four siblings. She moved to Washington State at a young age and graduated from Sumner High School in 1950.
Doris began her career at Sears in the catalog department shortly after high school, later dedicating over 30 years to the Burien Water District 49 before retiring. She met her first husband, Albert Graeber, in sixth grade and they married in 1957. Their union lasted until his passing in 1997. Doris found love again and remarried Donald Bruno in 2001, subsequently moving to Graham, Washington.
A devoted member of Mount View Presbyterian Church for over 20 years, Doris served as a Sunday School teacher and youth leader. Her commitment extended beyond the church into the community, where she was a Girl Scout leader for her daughters. Doris touched many lives through her community service, earning her the affectionate title of ‘mom’ from many she mentored.
Doris is survived by her husband, Don Bruno; daughters, Sharon Hall (Ron), Mardell Benson (Dan), and Nora Forsell (Joel); grandchildren, Audra Sisak, Annie Lambert, Nathan Graeber, and Adriana Hall; great-grandson, Nicholas Winnacott; and stepson, William Bruno. She was preceded in death by her spouse, Albert Graeber, and siblings, Lenora Elmquist, Mildred Shepard, and Arthur Thompson.
Doris enjoyed gardening, shopping, and indulging in her favorite treat, white chocolate mochas. She lived a full and vibrant life, marked by her dedication to her family and community.
In lieu of services, Doris’s life will be privately commemorated by her family. Bonney-Watson of Sea-Tac is assisting the family with arrangements. Contributions in memory of Doris can be made to the Alzheimer Association, honoring her compassionate spirit.
Always in my thoughts mom. I will miss you every single day
My favorite memory…when I took you all the way to Audra’s house in Jersey just because you wanted to put your foot in the Atlantic Ocean. Such a pleasure to share that moment with you. Thank you for being my mom…Thank you for helping me become the person I am today. Miss you and love you everyday.
Doris, was always so kind to me, welcomed me like family to her home. When my own Mother had suffered a stroke and was in the process of letting go she showed up to lend support to my family. I will always be forever grateful.
I will forever and always love you mom! Shine your light in Heaven.