Remembering Alice Niemeier

YWCA Spokane was saddened to learn of the passing of Alice Niemeier, a long-time, cherished friend. Alice accepted the Lifetime Achievement Award for the Ambassadors, a long-time group of supporters of the YWCA, at  our 31st Woman of Achievement Awards. Alice was committed to serving women and children through YWCA Spokane, spreading joy through her handmade hats, and her deep faith.

Alice accepting the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2013 Women of Achievement Awards Luncheon

Early Life

Alice was born on June 10th, 1923 on a small farm near Pipestone, MN. After high school, she moved to Santa Monica, CA and was a true “Rosie the Riveter” during World War II. During this time, she married her first husband and gave birth to two children, Sandra and Jimmy.

She moved to Spokane and married her second husband, Larry Niemeier, an Air Force Sergeant. They had a daughter, Marlene, and immersed themselves in the military life, moving around often and making friends along the way. Once Larry retired from the Air Force, the couple settled in Spokane. Larry passed away in 1985.

Unshakable Faith

Alice was an active parishioner at St. John’s Lutheran Church. She was also an active member of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, where she served as president. Alice was known around Spokane as the “hat lady,” as she would share hats from her vintage collection with other community members at luncheons and fundraisers around town. She was a fabulous seamstress and jeweler, and she was a quilter at St. John’s. Alice was also known as a wonderful dancer. Above all, Alice was known to her peers as a woman of unshakable faith, fierce independence, and generosity.

Honoring Alice

Alice with the 2013 Women of Achievement Honorees

Alice is survived by her two daughters, Sandra and Marlene, as well as five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and a great-great-granddaughter. A Memorial Service of thanks to the Lord will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 5810 S. Meadow Lane Rd., Spokane, WA 99224 on Saturday, May 25 at 11 AM, officiated by Pastor Virtus Young.

In Memory of Alice

Alice named YWCA Spokane and St. Johns Lutheran Church as organizations where contributions could be directed in her memory. If you would like to honor Alice with a donation to YWCA Spokane, you can visit our donation page here.