Eldy Doreen Lerum

Eldy “Doreen” (Sutich) Lerum

September 1, 1932 – June 6, 2025

Born and raised in her beloved hometown of Tacoma, Washington, Eldy “Doreen” Lerum (née Sutich) passed away on June 6, 2025, at the age of 92. A proud Croatian and devout Catholic, Doreen’s life was rooted in faith, tradition, and steadfast devotion to family.

Doreen was a proud graduate of Aquinas Academy, and she carried the values of her Catholic education with her throughout her life. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jewell Edmond Lerum Jr. She is lovingly remembered by her son, Jewell Edmond Lerum III, and daughter-in-law, Robin Lerum. She also leaves behind her grandchildren: Jered (Katie), Joshua, and Jordyn (Christopher) and her cherished great-grandchildren: Ethan, Ellie, and Jackson.

A gifted seamstress, Doreen spent countless hours at her sewing machine, creating quilts, Halloween costumes, and handmade baby items that she generously donated to the newborn unit at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tacoma. Every piece reflected her skill, care, and dedication.

As a grandmother, she never missed a basketball, soccer, or softball game—and she never cheered quietly. Her strong, supportive presence was a constant source of encouragement and pride for her grandchildren.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Tacoma. All who knew and loved Doreen are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, in tribute to a cause close to her heart.