Obituaries

Lydia Evangeline Jacobsen Galstad

Obituary

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Lydia Evangeline Jacobsen Galstad on August 19, 2026.

Born in Alberta, Canada, on March 18, 1932, the second youngest of 12 children, Lydia lived a life filled with love, music, and dedication to both family and community.

 

Lydia was a woman of immense talent and boundless energy, known for her brilliant smile that could light up any room.  Her warmth and kindness touched everyone she met, and her work ethic was unparalleled.

Lydia pursued her education at Prairie Bible Institute and Bob Jones University, which laid the foundation for her diverse and impactful career.  In her professional life, Lydia was a music specialist, teaching kindergarten through twelfth grade with a passion that inspired countless young minds. She also embarked on a successful career as a real estate agent, bringing her keen financial acumen and love for investment into her work.

Her love for music and children permeated her life. Even after retiring at the age of 72, Lydia continued to volunteer in a music program for children, sharing her love of music and nurturing the next generation.

Lydia's love for music and the arts extended beyond her professional life. She attended and supported Seattle Symphony and Seattle Opera, she sang in community musicals and opera and many church choirs, including Plymouth Congregational Church of Seattle,  University Presbyterian Church of Seattle, and Bethlehem Lutheran Church of Marysville. Her voice was a cherished part of many congregations and community gatherings.

Gardening was another passion of Lydia's, and she had an extraordinary ability to revive any plant. Her garden was a testament to her nurturing spirit and love for the natural world.

 

A devoted mother and grandmother, Lydia took immense joy in her family, especially her grandsons, Christopher and Sean. Lydia was the last of the Jacobsen siblings, and lost her daughter Gretchen in 2008. Lydia is survived by her son Dan, daughter Michele, grandsons Christopher and Sean, many nieces and nephews, her "extra daughters" Julie and Stephanie, and many friends. Her family was her pride and joy, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

 

In honoring Lydia's memory, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Bristol Hospice for their compassionate care during Lydia's final days, and to Providence Hospital in Everett for their support. Lydia's life was a beautiful symphony that will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.

 

Memorial Services for Lydia Evangeline Jacobsen Galstad are set for Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 2:00 PM.

Location: Chapel of the Resurrection

16300 112th Avenue NE

Bothell, WA  98011