Dolores Marie Trafton

In loving memory of Dolores who passed away on September 20, 2026 at the age of 98 years. Dolores was born on 10/04/1927 to Gladys Anderson Craighead and Ira Craighead in Tacoma, WA.

In 1946, Dolores married Ward Trafton, a Navy man she met on a cross country train trip. They had an over 50 year marriage and raised 3 daughters.

Dolores volunteered for the Girl Scouts and other kids activities. She worked as a Nursery School Teacher in the Puyallup area for over 15 years. As a member of the Puyallup United Methodist Church for over 50 years, Dolores was involved with the Adult Choir, Bell Choir, Childen's Bell Choir and other music groups. Music was an important part of her life. She played the piono and impressed visitors by playing for them until her health failed. At age 98, she heard a doorbell on the TV. She walked over the the piano and played the note she heard. Perfect match, first try. Even at the age 98, she had perfect pitch!

Dolores lived in her home on Bentley Road, that she and Ward built, for over 75 years. Only the last 4 months of her life was spent out of her home. A special Thank You to her irreplaceable Caregiver, Genevieve, who took loving care of her until the end of her life. 

Dolores Amazing neighbor, Steve, was a big part of her life. He was a regular visitor and took immaculate care of her yard. They talked about family and politics. As dementia interfered with her mind, she thought Steve should marry her instead of the other two ladies he was married to. Poor Steve. At times, he did take some abuse! 

Dolores is survived by her 3 daughters, Rebecca James, Barbara Schanzenbach and Roberta (Bunny) Ockfen, 6 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. Dolores will be missed not only by her family but also by the dozens of kids she touched with her teach and volunteering. No service is planned.