Nadeane Louise Eidal (née Blackford), 98, passed away peacefully of natural causes on March 13, 2025, at her home in Auburn, Washington.

Born on September 27, 1926, in Seattle, Washington, Nadeane grew up in West Seattle and pursued her passion for helping others by attending the University of Washington School of Nursing. It was during her time in nursing school that she met Richard Sr., who was completing his medical internship. Their love story unfolded quickly; a whirlwind two-month romance led to a beautiful marriage of love and adventure that lasted 56 years until his passing. As a widowshe stayed active in all areas of her life, especially those with family and friends.

A devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Nadeane cherished her family above all else.

She is survived by her children: Christen (Laura), Richard Jr., Judy, and Peter (Deanne); three granddaughters; one grandson; and six great-grandchildren. Her home was always a welcoming place for family and friends alike, filled with warmth and generosity.

Nadeane had a deep love for people and was always ready to lend a helping hand to those around her. She formed countless friendships throughout her life and remained an active member of her community. A lifelong practicing Lutheran, she found great joy in serving on church committees for many years and was the oldest living congregant at Messiah Lutheran Church, having joined in 1949 when she and her family moved to Auburn. Her faith was a guiding force in her life, and she treasured the many friendships she built within the church. For decades she was a member of PEO as well as being in a bridge club with friends that met often to play bridge and visit. She enjoyed entertaining friends and family and was masterful at hosting large groups of them, especially at their summer home and on New Year’s Eve with their extensive group of close Auburn friends.

Beyond her devotion to family and faith, Nadeane had many passions. She loved gardening and sewing, finding joy in beauty both indoors and out. In her younger years, she embraced adventure through snow skiing and water skiing. She loved to travel and they took many family trips as well as the two of them going on adventures. She also had a lifelong love for animals and always had pets by her side.

Nadeane’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering love will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort to those whose lives she so profoundly touched.

A memorial service will be held at Messiah Lutheran Church in Auburn from 2:00 to 4:00 on Friday the 11th of April. Memorials may be sent to Children’s Orthopedic Hospital, The American Cancer Society, and The Auburn Valley Humane Society.