Sue Ellen Holt

Sue Ellen Holt passed away May 12, 2024, in Olympia, Washington, after a prolonged illness. She was born April 25, 1944, to James E. Travenski and Betty J. Wiedenman in Seattle, Washington. She grew up in Ballard, Washington, and also lived in the Washington cities of Forks, Arlington, Okanogan, Granite Falls, and Bellingham.  She was an Olympia resident for more than 40 years.

Sue graduated from Ballard High School in 1962 and earned a BA from the University of Washington in 1968. She married Lawrence Joseph Holt on May 9, 1969, in Kalaloch, Washington

A dedicated homemaker, Sue also taught elementary/middle school and was a substitute teacher. In addition, she worked for the Thurston County Sheriff, was a private investigator, and was employed by DSHS until 1997.  She then volunteered in nursing homes, memory care facilities, St. Vincent DePaul and St. Michael Catholic Church, where she was a member, Bible study facilitator, and lector.

Sue loved being around people, hosting family gatherings and backyard parties, and doing many things with her family.  She was generous, always willing to share what she had with others less fortunate. She loved music, live theater, and playing the piano, and enjoyed swimming, canoeing, and traveling.  She was accomplished at crocheting and knitting.

She is survived by her husband, Lawrence Joseph Holt of Olympia; sons, Morgan Alan Holt of Enumclaw, Washington, and Justin James Holt of Olympia; daughter, Sara Patricia Holt-Knox of Olympia; and grandson, Matthew Liam Holt of Enumclaw. She was predeceased by her grandmother, E. Mae Wiedenman; mother, Bette J. Cox; and father, James J. Travenski.

A mass will be held Thursday, June 6, 2024, 12:00 p.m. at St. Michael Catholic Church, 1208 11th Ave. SE, Olympia, WA 98501.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Vincent DePaul, 1208 11th Ave. SE, Olympia, WA 98501 or to Pregnancy Aid Olympia, 1021 Boundary St. SE, Olympia, WA 98501.

Please leave condolences or share memories and photos in the “Tribute” section.