Bonnie Jean Osterman, age 66, died March 10 in Spokane after a battle with cancer.

She was born in Chicago, Ill., on Oct. 16, 1937, the daughter of longtime Presbyterian minister Malcolm Sweet, who pastored in Pennsylvania, Alaska and Colorado, among other locations. Her mother Mildred Sweet was active in the church as well as in teaching and art instruction.

Her early years were spent in New York, Pennsylvania and Missouri.

She graduated from Juneau High School in 1955 and received a bachelor’s degree in education from Washington State University in 1959.

She taught elementary school for two years in Southern California, after which she returned to the Northwest and taught for several more years.

Bonnie was previously a resident of Juneau, Alaska, Salem, Ore., Bainbridge Island, Edmonds and Camano Island.

She was known for her creativity in sewing and making beautiful dolls and stuffed animals for many years.

She was active in service to several churches including as a staff member with First Presbyterian Church in Seattle.

She enjoyed her ministry roles and pursued seminary studies for several years in Portland, Ore.

She was a devoted and caring mother, dedicated wife and committed Christian.

She is survived by her husband of 44 years, John; her sons Tom (Cathy), Perry, Chris (Betsy), and daughters Kathryn Cook (Matt) and Rebecca; grandchildren Robbie and Alex Osterman; and sisters Martha Sihler, Emily Stuart, and Mary Arnold.

A memorial service to celebrate Bonnie’s life will be held at 2 p.m. March 20 at First Presbyterian Church, 1013 8th Avenue, Seattle.