Our mom, Lillian Sienknecht, was generous with her time, quick with a smile, and had a gift for making people laugh—often without ever trying. Though shy in her younger years, especially because of her height and slender frame, she truly came into her own in college and then fully blossomed through a life of service, creativity, and quiet leadership.

Born and raised in Michigan, Lillian grew up with her younger sister Joann (Ken) Dingle, surrounded by the love of her father, Bernard Buck—a recent immigrant from Germany and a chef—and her mother, Elenore, who was a head nurse. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Home Economics with a focus in food, a field that perfectly suited her curiosity and care for others. Although she never had the opportunity to pursue her dream of becoming a test cook, she enjoyed a number of interesting and fulfilling careers.

She worked for Stouffer’s during their famous collection of“Top of” restaurants—before it became the frozen food brand many know today. Lillian helped open professional kitchens in Detroit, Chicago, St. Louis, and Denver, to name a few. Later, she worked for Amana when microwave ovens were first being introduced. She became so skilled that she could prepare an entire four-course meal from appetizers to dessert—using only a microwave. At times, growing up, we’d have two microwaves so she could test out the newest model.

She met Tracy, our dad, who preceded her in death by nine months, through the Tip Toppers Club in Colorado - a club for tall people. Mom at 6’3” and Dad at 6’5”. They were married for 57 years and built a full life together in Colorado, California and Washington. She is survived by us, their two daughters, Tara (James) Pease and Nicole (Mark) Cornell. She was preceded in death by her step-grandson, Jim II.

She and our dad were active ham radio operators and volunteered their communication skills for community events such as the Diabetes Bike-A-Thon, along with many other volunteer activities. They were also involved in a 4x4 club and enjoyed camping together.

Community involvement was simply part of life for Lillian. She found a great fit at Camp Fire Boys and Girls—first as a leader for her daughters and later as a volunteer for everything from day camp to holiday programs such as Posadas. Eventually, her dedication led her to join the organization’s staff. During one camp, while lighting a gas lantern that had a brief snafu, she earned the camp name “Lamp Lighter.” The name fit her perfectly. She lived by the saying, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good works,” and she did so for many.

Travel was another important part of her life, both on her own and with family. Out of college Lillian traveled to Europe with friends and many years later went to Japan with a friend.

Family camping trips took us to national parks and other destinations using a tent trailer. Another adventure by van included visiting 30 states and five Canadian provinces in just six weeks. She and Dad traveled to Europe together several times and even took Nicole on one of those trips. In retirement, she and Tracy had a camper that Dad modified to include a quilting area just for her.

Quilting (or at least Fabric) became one of her greatest passions. She owned Fabrics n’ Fun, a quilt store in Milpitas, CA. She was in the process of opening the store in the wake of 9/11—a time when she questioned whether moving forward was the right decision. She was reminded that she had begun the journey before that moment, and that the world would always need beautiful things—places that bring joy and give people something positive to focus on. She wasn’t just opening a store; she was creating a community. She became a central part of both the local community and the quilting community, serving as a source of encouragement, creativity, and connection for many.

She also had a love of St. Bernard dogs and draft horses. Growing up, the family had two St. Bernards at different times, and later she enjoyed her “St. Bernard granddogs,” as she liked to call them. She and Dad were also enthusiastic fans of draft horse shows, attending shows in Grass Valley and later the one at the Washington State Fair. Lillian’s admiration for these gentle giants reflected her own quiet strength, generosity, and calm presence.

She may have thought she lived an average life, but her impact was anything but. Throughout every stage of her life—through PTA meetings, classroom volunteering, neighborhood summers filled with swimming and activities, leadership roles, and simply being present when children needed a steady adult—she shaped lives in lasting ways. Even in assisted living, her generosity, warmth, and sense of humor continued to shine. Her Visiting Angels, staff, and residents spoke often of how much she made them smile and laugh. She never stopped giving of herself to those around her.

She is dearly missed by all who knew her, yet there is peace in knowing she is no longer limited by a failing body or pain. The light she shared so freely throughout her life lives on in those she touched. By choosing kindness, generosity, and laughter, we can continue her legacy and bring that same light into the world.

Arrangements are under the care of Simplicity Cremation of Poulsbo, WA