Our beloved mother, Geneva LaFaive, passed away on December 16, 2008, in Lompoc, following a lengthy illness.

Geneva was born May 24, 1932, in Caledonia, Minnesota. She was the last of six daughters born to Raymond and Martha Collins.

Geneva and her husband, Loren, raised their five children in Lakewood, WA, where she had worked for the Clover Park School District in food service.

Geneva and Loren later moved to the Kitsap Peninsula following Loren's retirement and, with much pride, Geneva retired from the Washington State Ferries following 15 years of service. Following the death of her husband, Loren, she relocated to Lompoc, CA, and became part owner in an appliance repair business.

Geneva was an avid knitter and crotchetier. She was also a wonderful cook and baker, gathering quite a following for her Special K Treats, her Indian Fry Bread, and her incredible assortment of homemade Christmas cookies.

Geneva is survived by her five children, Christine Lovely of Bainbridge Island, WA, Truman Sylling (Yvonne) of Lompoc, CA, Lori Sylling-Wiley (Jack) of Kirkland, WA, Mark LaFaive (Eva) of The Dalles, OR, and Lisa Skelton (Eric) of Arroyo Grande, CA, eight grandchildren, and two great grandchildren

She was preceded in death by her husband Loren LaFaive, as well as two sisters, Murtle Collins and Cora Deufel. The family requests no charity contributions.

Services will be held at the chapel of Starbuck-Lind Mortuary on Friday, January 9, 2009, with a visitation beginning at 10 am followed by a funeral service at 11 am.