Of Seattle, Washington passed away July 4, 2007 from heart disease. She was born October 30, 1937 to Josephine and James Power in Duluth, Minnesota. She worked at her parent's photography studio while still in school. She graduated from Cathedral High class of 1955. During school she was in Drama and later joined a local theater group. Avis worked at Bridgeman's ice cream parlor for a few years then attended St. Scholastica College in Minneapolis.

In 1961 she married and came to Seattle where her three children were born. The family moved to Houston Texas in 1967. She was an activist and joined HEP (Help Eliminate Pollution) working to improve air quality. She was a Brownie leader and a P.T.S.A. co-president. She was a member of Beta Sigma Phi for many years.

The family returned to Seattle in 1975. She attended Highline Community College at the same time as her son.

She was passionate about art and was an artist herself. Visiting museums, attending the opera and plays were highlights for her. She grew beautiful roses and even won ribbons for them.

Avis enjoyed reading to her granddaughters as wells as watching them at swim and dance class.

She is survived by her sister Avon Power (Joe Dudley) of Sioux Falls S.D., daughters Debbie (Roger) Millward of Renton, Annette (Eric) Elsey of Federal Way, son Patrick Van Loan of Snohomish, granddaughters Brianna and Rorie Millward, and one niece and six nephews.

A special thank you to Senior Volunteer Transportation and North Highline Fire District.

The family suggests memorials to The American Heart Association or North Highline Fire District.