Faye Arlene Nicolai died at her home July 30, 2014, surrounded by family.

The youngest of seven children, she was born July 2, 1932, in Dover, Pa., to Curtis and Fairy Hess. She arrived in the Seattle area in her late teens to visit her brother Oran and never left. She met and married George Nicolai, and made a home in Hobart, Wash. In 1978 the family moved to Enumclaw, settling in the Veazie Valley.

She is remembered for her kindness to all in need, both people and animals. She had a special place in her heart for children and spent many hours at the local elementary school helping young. Many generations of Enumclaw High School basketball players were rooted on by she and her husband. She was the matriarch for her family, for decades hosting every family gathering. Her home in the Veazie Valley was full of beautiful flowers, and a wonderful vegetable.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years, George Nicolai; children Pam Nicolai Guglielminetti and husband Nick of Vacaville, Calif., Scott Nicolai and wife Judi of Ellensburg, Wash., Jeff Nicolai and wife Stephanie of Enumclaw and David Nicolai of Enumclaw; eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

A celebration of her life is planned for Saturday, Sept. 13 in Enumclaw. Details will be published at a later date.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her name to The Northwest Parkinson’s Foundation, 400 Mercer St., Suite 502, Seattle, 98109; or the Sarvey Wildlife Care Center, P.O. Box 3590, Arlington, Wash. 98223.