Harriet Waters

Harriet Marie Waters, 91, of Overland Park, Kansas passed away Tuesday August 12, 2014.Harriet was born May 13, 1923 in Bluff City, Kansas to Raymond and Mae Cooper.
Harriet was preceded in death by her husband Ralph O. Waters and a son Dennis K. Waters.
She is survived by a daughter Loretta Kay Best Feldman (Bernard) of Seattle, Washington, a grandson Greg Best (Lyn, sons Jonathan and Zachary) and a son Nevin Waters (Lois) of Olathe, KS, two granddaughters Lindsay Waters Davidson (Todd, sons Liam and Wyatt) and Shannon Waters Russell (Jonathan, son Nash).
Harriet Marie Cooper grew up in Bluff City, Kansas, with two brothers (Harold and Walter) and a sister (Maudine). She married Ralph Waters and they lived in that area until Ralph joined the Navy in 1943. Ralph was sent to California and after the war ended, moved back to Wellington where Harriet had been working as "Rosie the Riveter". With three small children, Harriet and Ralph both worked at Boeing in Wichita where Harriet earned the nickname "Hell no Harriet!" as a tough inspector. Ralph was transferred to Seattle when the aircraft industry slowed down and Harriet worked there also. Kay followed her parents to Seattle where she married and continues to live. After 11 years, the industry slowed again and Ralph began driving a moving van for Mayflower. Harriet joined him and learned how to drive as well, working for several years and for two different companies. They moved back to Anthony, Kansas, where Harriet's mother was suffering from Alzheimer's and Ralph drove an 18 wheeler until he and Harriet went back to work at Boeing. They moved to Wichita and lived there until Ralph died in 1999. Harriet moved to Olathe to be near her son and family in 2000.
Harriet loved her children and was active in her boys' Boy Scout troops and camping, as well as the kids' school, where she supported Kay playing the trombone. Harriet shared her skills of sewing and cooking with Kay as well. Harriet's heart was broken when her son, Dennis, died of appendicitis when he was 13.
The family loved boating and spending time at Table Rock Lake in the house they bought in 1978. She loved children. She has a place of awe in the hearts of friends of Nevin for babysitting a herd of children while the parents went off to play. She loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, especially the babies. She didn't know the word "no" with her grandchildren or great grandchildren. She tirelessly sewed clothing for each of her grandchildren, and never complained of the wild outfits they dreamed up once they were old enough to have input. She also loved to knit and we have many afghans and sweaters that show her skill.
Harriet's passion for playing bridge earned her lots of friends. She was a gifted card player and won many types of card games, even being accused of cheating because she was so lucky. Family game nights were always lots of fun. Her miniature dachshunds gave her years of joy and laughter. She will be missed by friends and family who remember her as being feisty and fun.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to Cross Roads Hospice.