December 20, 1964 – May 20, 2024
Vicki was born in Salem, Massachusetts to Russ and Helen Lakso.
Early in life, she moved with her family to Corvallis where she graduated high school and then went on to also graduate from Oregon State University with double degrees in Business and Geology.
She moved to the Seattle area and pursued her chosen career with enthusiasm, earning several more certificates and awards to become a gemologist. She went on to spend 13 wonderful years with a major jewelry retailer, much of that time at their corporate headquarters.
While attending college, she met her ‘Islander Date’ and spent the next 41 years with that same guy. She got more than a dance partner that night! After a short time dating, and letting him drive her ’65 Mustang, her parents were more than a little concerned when she and her ‘date’ moved in together. But the parent’s worry was put aside after the announcement was made to ‘make it official’, but Vicki and Jim waited so they could have an extra-special ceremony. On October 15th, 1993, they were “Maui’d” and it was 10 years (to the day) after they met.
Many, many fabulous memories were made over the years, but no children. As a youngster, she loved her dog, Tiffany, and later, her kitties, Elegance, Power, and Duncan. When she was not collecting rocks and minerals, Vicki enjoyed camping, hiking, and outdoor activities. She was always just as ready to go on an adventure as she was to hang out and relax.
Her beautiful smile and easy laugh were her hallmarks and though sometimes her stubborn Finnish blood would cause a ruckus, she always had a good heart. As Vicki’s health declined, her strength began to fade and the many changes that followed meant a much different path than she expected, and planned on, but her attitude was always one of determination. The strength she showed, and the sincere smile that was always ready, even in adversity, can be a lesson for us all.
Please consider making a donation in her honor to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, (NMSS.ORG) or the non-profit organization of your choice. Farewell to a beautiful soul!
The post first appeared on Barton Family Funeral Service.