Eva Leon Glaus

Eva Leon Glaus (Johanson) born November 11, 1918 at home on a small family farm in Iowa, died on September 24, 2022 in Salem, Oregon.  Her humble childhood home without electricity or indoor plumbing did harbor the unmistakable and unshakable love of a father, mother, and older brother.  This nurtured in Eva her natural spirit as a kind and gentle soul. 

On July 3, 1938 she and Arthur Glaus, also from humble beginnings in small town Iowa, eloped to South Dakota to marry.  Two years later they gave birth to their first son, Roger William but suffered his tragic death 2 years later.  A cross country drive from Iowa to Oregon with all of the meager possessions and $28 in their pocket found them settling in Portland.  They lived a short time with family but immediately found work and bought their first house; a small one story, 2 bedroom in Northwest Portland. Shortly thereafter, their second son, Ronald Arthur, was born.

Eva was always welcoming and quick to give a hand and a smile to all.  Over the years many friends were made and kept for a lifetime.  Eva worked in several occupations from cannery worker to bakery and pharmacy sales.  Some evenings after work she would rush off to host a home product house party.  She loved music and taught herself to play both piano and electric organ.  She and Art enjoyed dancing at home or in the community at various dance venues (like the one where they met in Iowa).  They also had many happy times playing cards especially pinochle and canasta.  One month short of the 67^th wedding anniversary, Art died and Eva carried the burden of another deep loss on her life’s journey. 

Poetry was another joy in her life.  She honored all manner of animals with kindness and wonderment, bringing no harm to any.  Gracious in her manner, nobody left her home wanting, be the offering home baked cookies, a full holiday dinner, or a compassionate ear and heartfelt hug.  Her two granddaughters and one grandson always found a loving grandma who never spoke a harsh word to or about anyone.  To know Eva was to experience love in rich abundance and quiet action.  She will always be in our hearts as an example of the best and noblest of human qualities.  We will miss her shining blue eyes, beautiful smile, and her tender soft-spoken nature toward all who met her.  She is followed by four generations of loved ones.

In lieu of flowers or other token of remembrance, please consider sending support in her name to either the HOME Youth Services, or the Lighthouse Farm Sanctuary, both in Salem, Oregon.