2010-2016, WA, Compiled by James W. Blankenship jkblank1(at)sbcglobal.net

 

SSDI, http://ssdi.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/ssdi.cgi , WA,         Transcribed by Jim @ Blankenshipweb.com

Blankenship, Jamie Sue    46, 25Apr1965 - 30Jul2011,            99354 (Washington),                       WA-537-72-0578

 

Adams                                                                                                               

 

2011, Ritzville, Adams Co., WA, Obituary

The Spokesman-Review, (Spokane, WA) - May 24, 2011

Blankenship, Rosemary (Schwisow) November 9, 2919 - May 20, 2011 Rosemary passed away May 20, 2011 after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born November 9, 1929 to Jacob and Mary Elizabeth (Adler) Walter, in Mohler, Washington.

She moved with her parents to Ritzville when they retired from farming and graduated from high school in 1947. Rosemary married Vern Schwisow in 1948 after attending WSU for a year. Vern passed away in 1966 and Rosemary remarried Joel Blankenship in 1975. Joel also preceded her in death. Rosemary was well known in Ritzville after working many years in the local pharmacies and insurance office.

She is survived by her children, Michael Schwisow (Jane); Susan Thaut (Mark) and Sandra Head (Mark) and two stepdaughters, Judy Cogswell (Warren) and Jolene Swain. In the extended family are 18 nieces and nephews, six grandchildren, eight stepgrandchildren and 17 stepgreat-grandchildren.

Rosemary's brothers and sisters, Jacob Walter, Henrietta Plymale, Helen Gullidge, Karl Walter and Viola Jean Lilla have all passed before her. She was a Member of the Emanuel Lutheran Church in Ritzville, where she and the other Quilting Queens dedicated thousands of hours to bringing comfort to those less fortunate by making quilts that were distributed around the world.

A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, May 25, 1:00 p.m. at Emanuel Lutheran Church in Ritzville, Washington.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2013, Washtucna, Adams Co., WA, Obituary

Published in Tri-City Herald on May 31, 2013

Clark Ducey Sullivan was born on March 11, 1933 in Washtucna, WA to George and Hazel Long Sullivan. He passed away at his home on May 27, 2013. Clark attended high school in Washtucna and graduated in the class of 1951. He attended Eastern Washington College for one year before being drafted into the army near the end of the Korean Conflict. Upon his discharge, he attended Spokane Technical School, earning an aeronautical degree.

In 1965, Clark was married to Carol Link. They made their home in Washtucna, raising their four children; Sharon, Debra, Shane, and Evon. Throughout his life, Clark had a wheat treating business, drove school bus, owned and operated C&C Farms, worked for Adams County DOT and eventually the WA State DOT. His hay operation and his equipment were his passion. He utilized his engineering skills; building his own harrow bed, stack retriever, rake, log splitter, go carts, and rebuilding his airplane. Clark remained active in farming until the last year of his life.

Clark was a member of the Washtucna Community Church where he served as a trustee. He also served on the Town Council. In addition to his farm, Clark enjoyed flying his airplane and when he could no longer do that, flying with his son, Shane, and nephew, John. Clark loved all sports, but particularly basketball, playing in high school, at Eastern Washington College, and in the Army.

He enjoyed attending the grandkids' sporting events and watching their inherited athleticism. Clark's greatest joy was in spending time with family, both immediate and extended. He had a special gift of service to the elderly as well as just being a friend to all. Clark never knew a stranger. He often said "I don't know what I'm supposed to do in my life." Many saw his special gifts even when he did not. Clark helped many, expecting nothing in return. Everyone will remember that big smile of welcome.

Clark was preceded in death by his son, Shane Clark Sullivan, parents Hazel and George Sullivan, brothers George, Bernard, Daniel, and sisters Audrey Winn and Beulah Blankenship.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Carol Sullivan; daughters Sharon (Joe) McKeirnan, LaCrosse, Debra (Rick) Kelley, Snohomish, Evon (Mike) Jones, LaCrosse; ten grandchildren, Keith & Bo Sullivan, Kayla & Matt McKeirnan, Ethan & Jack Kelley, Madeline & Holly Sullivan, Blake & Austin Jones; brother, Sydney Sullivan, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A memorial service will be held at 1 pm on Monday, June 3, 2013 at the Washtucna Community Church. Viewing will be held prior to the service. Burial and a reception dinner will follow.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Adams Co., SSDI, http://ssdi.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/ssdi.cgi ,

Blankenship, Rosemary     81, 09Nov1929 - 20May2011,         Ritzville, Adams, WA,                    WA-532-28-3603             

 

Asotin                                                                                                                

 

2011, Clarkston, Asotin Co., WA, Obituary

Lewiston Morning Tribune (ID) - October 19, 2011

Charles (Bud) Blankenship Jr., 80, of Clarkston, died Monday, Oct. 17, 2011, at Tri-State Memorial Hospital in Clarkston. Arrangements are pending with Mountain View Funeral Home of Lewiston.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2011, Clarkston, Asotin Co., WA, Obituary

http://lmtribune.com/obituaries/article_6fde7335-2e52-5a0c-84e7-f5d1e8e36215.html

Charles H. (Bud) Blankenship Jr. passed away at the age of 80 Monday, Oct. 17, 2011. Bud was born in 1931 in Arkansas City, Kan., to Velma E. Hughes and Charles H. Blankenship Sr.

He graduated from Arkansas City High School in 1949 and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force the next year. While serving he married Pauline Owens. They had three children, Mike, Chuck and Debi, and later divorced. He served in the Korean War and received an honorable discharge in 1954 as an airman first class. After the Air Force, he attended Arkansas City Junior College and later received a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering from the University of Arizona. Bud's inventive genius was sparked at Texas Instruments, where he was part of the engineering team that developed the world's first integrated circuit. In 1962, he co-founded Siliconix Inc., departing in 1973 as senior vice-president.

Bud married Aurelia (Rae) Field in 1974 and moved the family to Arkansas City. During this time Bud worked to invent the world's first Electronic Golf Swing Analyzer. Bud and Rae relocated to Lewiston in 1975, where he started Golftek Inc. With the help of his son, Mike, he began manufacturing and marketing the swing analyzer, earning its place in the PGA Hall of Fame and gaining international recognition. With Rae handling the front office and Mike in engineering, Bud had the best of both worlds with family and good friends working beside him.

He is survived by his loving family - wife Rae of Clarkston; son, Mike and Beth Blankenship of Lewiston; daughter, Debi and Chuck Shaeffer of El Dorado Hills, Calif.; stepsons, Mark and Gina Dagelen of Lewiston, and Paul and Corinna Dagelen of Clarkston; sisters, Sue Balentine of Tucson, Ariz., Norma Lamirand of Atlanta and Sonya Merrill of Green Valley, Ariz.; grandchildren, Michelle, Matt, Christopher, Max, Elizabeth, Kaleb, Evan and Sam; and friends, employees, co-workers and poker buddies.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Charles Kent Blankenship.

The family has planned a no-host gathering from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday at Lewiston Golf and Country Club to celebrate, honor and share our joyous memories.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2013, Clarkston, Asotin Co., WA, Obituary

Lewiston Morning Tribune (ID) - January 31, 2014

Bonnie Matson, 78, passed away peacefully Saturday, Jan. 25, 2014, following a long illness. She was born Oct. 22, 1935, in Clarkston to Elisha and Wilma Blankinship.

Bonnie cherished her childhood memories of trailing sheep in the mountains with her father and twin sister, Betty. At age 16, she married John Chapman, with whom she had two children, Sheila and Eddie. The couple later divorced.

She married Victor Matson Dec. 27, 1957, in Portland, Ore., and they lived in Seattle for most of their married lives. They had one daughter, Melinda. The couple retired to Clarkston in 1992. Their door was always open to others, and Bonnie could often be found cooking large meals for gatherings of friends and neighbors. She enjoyed playing pinochle, reading (especially the Bible), and crocheting afghans, which she often gave as gifts. Many of Melinda's friends referred to Bonnie as "mom."

Bonnie is survived by her mother, Wilma Tyler; twin sister, Betty Russell; brother Fred Williams; daughter Melinda (Dave) Crawford; and grandsons Lucas and Kellen Crawford.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Victor Matson; father Elisha Blankinship; and son Eddie Blankinship.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2014, Clarkston, Asotin Co., WA, Obituary

Lewiston Morning Tribune (ID) Date: September 10, 2014

David Blankenship, 94, of Clarkston, died Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2014, at his home.

Merchant Funeral Home of Clarkston is in charge of arrangements.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2014, Clarkston, Asotin Co., WA, Obituary

Lewiston Morning Tribune (ID) Date: September 13, 2014

David Erby Blankinship, 94, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2014, from natural causes at his home. He was born Oct. 26, 1919, to David and Anna (Rubenser) Blankinship in Asotin.

He attended school up Asotin Creek and never left. He married Maxine McCowan on June 14, 1940. He was a farmer and rancher, raising both sheep and cattle. He didn't work by the hour, he worked by the daylight. He was a giving person. Many times he would give strangers gas at his ranch so they could make it back to town. Going to town was a big deal for him. He just loved dancing and having a good time. He enjoyed watching boxing and rodeos on TV. After retiring from the ranch, he took great pride keeping his lawn in tip-top shape. He will be truly missed by all the people who were lucky enough to call him a friend.

Erby is survived by his wife, Maxine; and sister Donna Jones of Asotin. He is also survived by many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Erby was preceded in death by his son, Ron Blankinship; and daughters Linda Winroth and Judy Kain; as well as two brothers and six sisters.

He was a member of the Asotin Cattlemen's Association and the Clarkston Moose Lodge.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Monday at Merchant Funeral Home, 1000 Seventh St. in Clarkston, with Pastor Randy Cox officiating.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2015, Clarkston, Asotin Co., WA, Death

Lewiston Morning Tribune (ID) Date: June 1, 2015

John Ross Blankenship, 62 [1953], of Clarkston, died Sunday, May 31, 2015, at Tri-State Memorial Hospital in Clarkston.

Merchant Funeral Home of Clarkston is in charge of arrangements.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

John Ross Blankenship – b.02Feb1953 - Clarkston, WA: https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:K55L-K1Q

Relatives: Charmain Kaye Blankenship, Jeana Blankenship, Jeanna L. Blankenship, Judith Ann Blankenship, Kenny Jean Blankenship, Mark Blankenship.

 

2015, Clarkston, Asotin Co., WA, Memorial

Lewiston Morning Tribune (ID) - June 7, 2015

John Ross Blankenship, 62, of Clarkston - 4 p.m. celebration of life and covered-dish dinner, Church of New Hope, 1421 Powers Ave., Lewiston.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2015, Clarkston, Asotin Co., WA, Obituary

Lewiston Morning Tribune (ID) - October 9, 2015

Wilma Idonia Tyler, 99, of Clarkston, passed away Saturday, Sept. 3, 2015, at Evergreen Estates in Clarkston. Wilma was born July 12, 1916, in Elberton, Wash., to Chauncey E. Taylor and Clara B. (Clayton) Taylor.

Wilma is survived by her children, Betty J. (Blankenship) Russell of Clarkston and Fred L. Williams of Lawrenceville, Ill.; as well as nine grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Bonnie J. (Blankenship) Matson.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Vineland Cemetery in Clarkston.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2015, Clarkston, Asotin Co., WA, Obituary

Lewiston Morning Tribune (ID) - October 11, 2015

Roy Lee Elliott, our loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, co-worker and friend put his tool belt away for the last time Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2015, with his family at his side. He was born March 4, 1930, in Alamosa, Colo., to Walter Benjamin Elliott and Elva Susan (Pittman) Elliott.

He was raised in the small town of Mosca, Colo., along with his sisters, Vera, Lila, Edith and Bertha, and his brothers Lyle and Kenneth. His parents passed away many years ago, and of his six siblings, only his baby sister, Bertha, has survived him, living in Denver with her husband, Gordon Meisner.

Roy met the love of his live, Twyla Faye King, in 1948, just after he had graduated from high school. She was still a junior at the time. They eloped and were married on June 27, 1950, in Santa Fe, N.M. From there, they moved to Hale Center, Texas, where he worked for the county road department, operating heavy equipment. He became Roy Elliott Sr. in November of 1951, when his first son, Roy Jr., was born. In the mid-50s, he and his little family moved to Farmington, N.M., where his second son, Gary, was born in May, 1960. It was around this time that he changed his vocation to the building trade, eventually becoming a structural ironworker. The knowledge, skills and insight he gained in 40-plus years in his chosen trade made him a valuable commodity throughout the country. His positions as a worker, teacher, mentor and supervisor amongst his ironworker brothers resulted in many moves for his family through the years. They "settled" in many places throughout the Western U.S. for varying periods of time, following construction jobs. There were many times that he would get the family settled, then "boom out" to find work.

In 1967, he moved his family for the last time, to Clarkston, where his sons, Roy Jr. and his wife, Sandy, and Gary with his wife, Tracie, still live. Along with working his trade on local projects which included the Dent bridge, the "Someday" bridge, Little Goose Dam and many others, including a stint on the Alaska pipeline, he pursued his other passion, farming, which he had learned as a boy growing up. I'm certain that there are many folks in the Lewston-Clarkston Valley and surrounding area that remember Elliott's strawberries and especially Elliott's corn. Roy and Faye moved from the family home in 1983 out to the place at 10-Mile Creek, where they worked tirelessly to ensure all orders for berries and corn were filled. They gave up commercial farming in 1995 and moved back into their home in Clarkston.

Roy was devastated when, in June 1997, the love of his life was suddenly, unexpectedly, taken from him by a fatal brain aneurism. He still had his boys and their families for support though, and enough property to continue putting in a garden, mostly Elliott's corn, every year. He planted his last nine rows of corn this spring. That and three enormous tomato plants. He loved canning tomatoes.

Several years ago, he met Vivian Stuart and they remained close friends and loyal companions until 2013, when Vi, with Roy at her bedside holding her hand, passed away.

Along with his sons and their wives, Roy is survived, including Roy Jr.'s blended family, by nine grandchildren and 11 great-grandkids. He is survived by Gary's children, April (Lewiston), Michael (stationed with the Navy in Panama City Beach, Fla.), and Molly, who lives in Lewiston with her husband, Trent. He is also survived by Roy Jr.'s children, Angela with her husband, Greg, and their children, Kyle, Ben, Kendra and Mia of Yuma, Ariz.; Roy III, a Navy chief petty officer, with his wife, Delores, and their daughters, Kailien and Rhena, of Port Orchard, Wash.; Dominique and her fiance, Brandon of Boise; Lindsey, who also lives in Boise; Brandi Chapman, her husband Chuck and their children Caden, Alexis and Charlie of Clarkston; and Dustin Blankinship with his wife, Danielle and their boys, Carter and Sawyer, who live in Monroe, Wash.

There will be a celebration of Roy's life from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday at the Clarkston Eagles Lodge.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2016, Clarkston, Asotin Co., WA, Obituary

Lewiston Morning Tribune (ID) - March 13, 2016

Maxine Opal Blankinship, 93, passed away peacefully Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016, from natural causes at Prestige Care in Clarkston. She was born Dec. 1, 1922, to Rufus and Olive (Bailey) McCowan.

Maxine attended school in Clarkston. Maxine married David Erby Blankinship on June 14, 1940. She worked at the Moose Lodge in Clarkston for many years. Maxine was a full-time wife to a rancher (no easy task), a dedicated mother who raised a daughter and a set of twins. She also raised most of the food they ate throughout the year.

After retiring from the ranch life, she and Erby moved to Clarkston to live the rest of their joyful lives together. Maxine enjoyed knitting and visiting with all of their family members. She will be truly missed by all who knew her.

Maxine was preceded in death by her husband, Erby; daughter Judy Kain; and twins Ron Blankinship and Linda Winroth.

Maxine is survived by a sister, Barbara Campbell of Lewiston. She is also survived by many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

A graveside funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, March 18, 2016, at Vineland Cemetery, with the Rev. Randy Cox officiating.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Benton                                                                                                              

 

+2012, Kennewick, Benton Co., WA, Obituary

Published in Tri-City Herald on November 13, 2012

Christine "Chris" Ann Blankenship died Nov. 10, 2012, at Tri-Cities Chaplaincy House in Kennewick after a brave fight against ovarian cancer. To her friends, Christine was known as Chris, Christy, Cookie, Mom and Grandma. She was born on Aug. 22, 1950, in Richland to Edgar and Margaret Wood.

Chris spent her childhood in Richland, graduating from Richland High School in 1968. Although she lived in other parts of the state and in New Mexico for a short span of her life, Richland always had her heart. The reason being: her love for her family. Even as a precocious girl, she spent time visiting her family. This love for family carried through her adulthood.

She was surrounded by her family -- living in south Richland with Terry, her husband of 41 years; nearby to her two sons, Eric and Mark, and her mother, Margaret (Luther) Wood, of Richland; and her in-laws, Bane and June Blankenship of Kennewick.

Chris grew up in a family that liked to laugh and have fun. Her father, Edgar C. Wood, her aunts, uncles and cousins all had great senses of humor and many were practical jokers. She inherited that sense of humor and loved to have a good time.

Chris met Terry as a freshman at Central Washington State College in 1968. Terry watched Chris sitting in the dining hall for several weeks. Chris noticed Terry and asked friends about the guy with the "smokin' look in his eyes." She came to find out that Terry, known on campus as the "The Red Baron" was from Kennewick. Chris took the initiative to ask a shy Terry to a dormitory function. Before the function, they decided they should meet and get to know each other, so they met one afternoon for a talk. They immediately felt so comfortable with each other that it was like two old friends chatting. They married on December 12, 1970, after dating six months and a six-month engagement. Chris was 19 and Terry was 20.

Chris and Terry moved into an apartment in Ellensburg while Terry finished school. Chris worked as a car hop at A&W and babysat to help put Terry through school. Between her work and Terry's work at a gas station, they didn't have to borrow any money for school.

After graduation in 1972, Chris and Terry moved to Seattle. They welcomed their first child, Eric Thomas Blankenship, on Oct. 30, 1973. Chris immediately fell in love and made a commitment to devote herself full time to her family. As a new couple, money wasn't easy to come by, so they only had one car. Terry traveled extensively in his job, so Chris would bundle Eric up in a backpack and walk up and down Queen Ann Hill to the store, carrying Eric and groceries.

Chris missed the Tri-Cities and wanted Terry to get a job with less travel, so in 1974 they moved back to the Tri-Cities. The job was better and so was the money, so they started looking for a home to purchase in Richland. Terry's dad, Bane Blankenship, was in real estate and was helping them find their ideal home. After looking at several houses without finding "the one," Bane called with what he considered to be a great deal on a house. A young builder had built a new house, but it just wouldn't sell. The bank was about to foreclose on the home and Bane said they needed to look at the house right away and thought they could get a good deal before it was foreclosed on. Chris took one look and said, "I'm not buying that house." It was painted orange and had orange shag carpet. With some convincing and a promised to paint the house immediately, Chris and Terry bought their first house. Chris worked to turn it into a home she could be proud of. After moving into their home, Chris gave birth to their second son, Mark Edgar Blankenship, born Feb. 14, 1977.

After the kids were in school, Chris worked and volunteered. She was a judge's advocate for children in the Casa Guardian Ad Litem program at the Benton Franklin Juvenile Justice Center. She also worked in clerical and administrative positions in the same program. For many years, Chris was an aerobics instructor with Joyce's Body Shoppe and with Columbia Basin Racquet Club. For several years, she also volunteered at her home church, Cathedral of Joy.

Chris was particularly proud of her sons as they grew into adulthood. Eric and Mark married and settled in Richland. Mark married his high school sweetheart, Jessica (Parsons) Blankenship, and Eric married a Tri-Cities transplant, Genoa (SiboldCohn) Blankenship. Both women became like daughters to her.

Chris' love cup was filled to capacity with four lovely children, or so she thought. Then her first grandchild appeared. Chris cared for her oldest grandchild, Ben, during his first year when Genoa worked. She became attached to him in a way she didn't think was possible, except with her own children. Two years later, her granddaughter, Berit, was born and Chris now had her first glimpse at what it is like to raise girls. She was blessed with her third grandchild, Cannon, 3, who adored his grandmother.

Chris wanted people to know that the two most important things in her life were her deep love of her family and that she was a devout follower of Christ. She loved her family so deeply. She devoted herself to caring for her husband, her two boys, her two daughters-in-law, her three grandchildren and her grand dogs.

Her family wants those who know Chris to remember these things about her. Chris was tender, yet tough. She was the example of the kind of person you wanted to become. She was always there when someone needed her. She was the one that would heal the hurts. She devoted hours to PTO and other school activities to support her kids and would drive the carpool of kids to ball practice. She was the one that would make the snacks for halftime at games. She was the one that would defend her children if they needed someone in their corner. She was the one that would temper what Terry wanted to say, so it had impact, but wouldn't spoil the message by the way it was presented. She was the one that spent countless hours at football games, baseball games, cross country races and track meets. She was the one that babysat her grandchildren and volunteered to work in their preschool. She was just THE ONE.

For a good part of Chris' adult life, she was searching for something greater than herself -- something that she could hang on to when times were tough; something that would provide peace when she needed it. She found that in Christ and became a devout follower. This had a profound impact on her life. It gave her the peace and serenity she was searching for and gave her the ability to pass it on to everyone she came in contact with. Chris credits her grandmother, Olive Luther, with providing her with the example so that she could find this great gift for herself. Her grandmother was also a follower of Christ and you could see kindness and love in her eyes and felt peaceful and calm just being near her. Chris had the same gift.

Chris is survived by her husband, Terry; son Eric and daughter-in-law Genoa; son Mark and daughter-in-law Jessica; mother Margaret (Luther) Wood; sister Janet (Wood) Asbridge and brother-in-law Bob Asbridge; father-in-law Bane Blankenship and mother-in-law, June Blankenship; and grandchildren, Ben, Berit and Cannon. She also is survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Edgar C. Wood, and her older brother, Michael Wood.

Chris' family sincerely thanks all of those at Columbia Basin Hematology & Oncology and The Chaplaincy/Hospice House who showed so much tenderness and compassion during these difficult times.

A celebration of Chris' life has been planned for 3 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, at Cathedral of Joy, 1153 Gage Blvd., Richland.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2013, Kennewick, Benton Co., WA, Obituary

Published in Tri-City Herald on June 6, 2013

Kathy Blankenship peacefully passed away at Hospice, May 27, 2013 surrounded by family. She was born in Richland, March 22, 1954 and graduated from River View High School in Finley. She made the Tri-Cities her home.

Kathy is survived by her daughter Michelle, granddaughter Summer, sisters Phyllis Williams, Brenda Bull, Peggy Wood, Kelly Hendren, and brothers Mike and Pat Kirk.

She was preceded in death by her son Brian and her parents John and Dorothy Kirk.

Funeral services will be held at Riverview Heights Cemetery, on 10th and Olympia, Saturday, June 8, 2013 at 11:00am. T

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+214, Kennewick, Benton Co., WV, Obituary

Published in Tri-City Herald on Mar. 7, 2014

Bane Everett Blankenship was born January 2, 1921, in Manes, Mo., and went to his heavenly reward March 4, 2014. He lived in Kennewick for the past 66 years and leaves behind June, his loving wife of 66 years.

Bane served honorably during WWII as a medic in the 101st Airborne, including battles in Normandy and Bastogne. He received a Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his service. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and camper and fished up to the time that his health wouldn't allow him to continue. His stories are legendary in the family. Bane was a very generous man with both his time and finances. Nobody in his family went wanting for either. Family was his first priority.

In addition to his wife June, Bane also leaves behind his daughter Dixie; sons Terry (Terry), Rick (Meg) and Greg; six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Bane will be reunited in Heaven with his twin brother Lane and his grandson, Justin.

Graveside service will be held 11:00 a.m., March 8th at Desert Lawn Memorial Park (10th & Union) and the Memorial Service will be at 1:00 p.m. at Columbia Community Church (Gage Blvd).

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2016, Kennewick, Benton Co., WA, Obituary

Published in Tri-City Herald on Oct. 13, 2016

Molly Cone was born Marie Ann McFarland in Spokane, Washington, December 28, 1931.

She lived in Sandpoint, Idaho with her parents Rose and Robert McFarland and her younger brother Mike. She attended one year of high school at Holy Names in Spokane then graduated from Sandpoint High School. She met her future husband Roger the summer following high school graduation at the Sandpoint Public beach where she was a lifeguard. After attending University of Idaho for a semester, she married Roger and moved to Richland Washington where they raised their four children.

Molly was active in the Christ the King Parish, a member of the parish Alter Society and loved dancing in the annual "Follies" church fundraiser. She and was an avid bridge player and belonged to several "ladies" groups and a couples group that remained life long friends. She and Roger moved to Kennewick in 1975. After her husband Roger passed away, she met and married Robert Peterson in 1992. She was delighted to join his family of four grown children and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Molly was the original Martha Stewart. An accomplished seamstress and tailor, she could and did make just about everything. In addition to beautiful clothes for her children she made hats, coats, and her husband's suits and ties. She reupholstered every piece of furniture in her house, sheet rocked and painted the house and roofed the garage. She was a fabulous cook and made the best lemon meringue pie on the planet. Molly was an enthusiastic participant in all things fun. She water skied, snow skied, golfed, rode horses with her women's "Saddlebags" group and camped with her daughter's Girl Scout troop. She worked as hard as she played. She taught swimming lessons as a young mother. She taught sewing at Columbia Basin Community College Adult Education for twenty five years. After her children moved out of the house she opened a sewing machine store and later expanded her business to include fabric. The McFarland family is a tight knit clan and she treasured holidays and summer vacations with them at the family cabin at Cocolalla Lake.

She was preceded in death by her husband Roger Cone, and her second husband Robert Peterson.

She is survived by her son Roger Cone (Marcie), and daughters Debbie Broughton (Bill), Cristy Penny (David) and Margaret Blankenship (Rick), grandchildren Nick Cone, Cristopher Cone, Jacqueline Broughton, Michael Broughton, Darcy Broughton and Colleen Penny, stepdaughter Anne Carroll (Jerry), and stepsons Jim Peterson (Tressa), John Peterson (Lorna) and Doug Peterson (Cheryl).

Services will be held at St. Josephs Catholic Church in Kennewick, WA October 19th at 2:00 pm.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Rick A. Blankenship – b.19Dec1950 - Kennewick, WA: https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2MDB-7JS

Relatives - Alison C. Blankenship, Bane E. Blankenship, Deborah J. Blankenship, Greg D. Blankenship, Helen M. Blankenship, June P. Blankenship, Margaret E. Blankenship, Margaret E. C. Blankenship, Meg Blankenship-Cone, Mickey L. Blankenship, Stephanie D. Blankenship.

 

2011, Richland, Benton Co., WA Obituary

Tri-City Herald (Kennewick, WA) - May 1, 2011

William (Bill) Brown went to be with the Lord on April 12, 2011, at age 91. He was born on January 27, 1920, in Roanoke, Virginia, to William D. and Sarah Elizabeth Blankenship Brown.

The second of four children, he grew up in the small Virginia town of Clifton Forge where he graduated from high school. He joined the Army Air Corps (later the US Air Force) and served as a flight line engineer during in World War II. He met his wife, Mary, on a crowded street in Washington, D. C., as they celebrated VJ Day in 1945. They were married in Edmonton, Alberta in 1946. Bill took advantage of the GI bill to attend the University of Virginia, obtaining a degree in Economics. His daughter, Melinda, was born three weeks before his graduation day. Bill, Mary and their infant daughter moved across the country so he could start a job in Spokane, Washington. While working in Spokane, Bill heard about work at Hanford and obtained a job with General Electric. He moved Mary and the baby to Pasco, then to Richland where their daughter, Jane, and son, Daniel Lawrence, were born. Bill and Mary lived in their original government house in Richland for more than 50 years. He worked for a number of Hanford contractors, first in payroll and benefits and then in records management. He retired from Rockwell in 1986. Bill was active in the community, participating in Richland School's PTA, the Records Management Association, the Elks, and Prairie Shufflers Square Dancers Club. He and Mary traveled extensively after he retired, visiting Europe, New Zealand and Australia, and square danced all around the United States. He volunteered at Southside Church where he had been an active member since 1961. He spent many hours following his grandchildren's sports, music and school activities. Bill was a very kind man and a true southern gentleman, loved by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Sarah Elizabeth, his sister Francile Wright and infant sister, Winifred; younger brother, Robert; and infant son, Daniel.

He is survived by his daughter, Melinda Brown, and his daughter and son-in-law, Jane and Pete Hedges; his grandchildren that he adored, Clarissa Fraley, and Rachelle and Alex Hedges, and many nieces and nephews.

There will be a memorial service celebrating Bill's life at Southside Church, 517 Jadwin, Richland, WA at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 8, 2011.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2011, Richland, Benton Co., WA, Death

Tri-City Herald (Kennewick, WA) - August 2, 2011

Jamie Blankenship, 46, died July 30 at home in Richland. She was born in Spokane and lived in Richland for many years. She worked in retail at Columbia Industries.

Hillcrest Memorial Center, Kennewick, is in charge of arrangements.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2011, Richland, Benton Co., WA, Obituary

Published in Tri-City Herald on August 14, 2011

Jamie Sue 'Susie' Blankenship, age 46, of Richland, died at home on July 30, 2011. She was born on April 25, 1965, in Spokane, WA, to parents Jerry and Connie Blankenship. She has lived in the Tri-Cities for 40 years.

Jamie graduated from Hanford High School in 1986. She was employed by Shop CI for over 25 years. She attended the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses and she was a member of ARC. Jamie loved to do puzzles, watch Shirley Temple movies and always kept track of what her nieces and nephews were doing and loved having them visit.

She is survived by her parents, Jerry and Connie Blankenship; sisters, Mechelle (Don) Ayers, Heather (Ronnie) Alexander; nephew Corey, Tyler; nieces BreAnna, Abigail, Emily. She also leaves behind her many loving friends at Columbia Industries.

She is preceded in death by both her maternal and paternal grandparents.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2013, Richland, Benton Co., WA, Obituary

Published in Tri-City Herald on August 16, 2013

Wilma Mildred Pearson, 85, passed on August 13, 2013 in Richland, WA. She was born on July 29, 1928 in Jennings, Kansas to parents Jay M. and Eva (Talbott) Hunter.

She is preceded in death by her husbands Jim Murphey, Paul Prukop, Joe Pearson and son, Donald Leroy Murphey; brothers and sisters: Orville Hunter; Grant Hunter; Raymond Hunter; Gerald Hunter; Mabel Gollabith; Dora Smith; Leone La Pointe; Veda Blankenship; and Myrtle Rocci.

Wilma is survived by her daughters, Vicki Murphey (Ken) Johns; Marcia Murphey Smith; son, James (Brenda) Murphey; daughter-in-law Marsha Murphey; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews; and brother Vergil Hunter.

A Loving Farewell will be held Sat. Aug. 17, 2013 at 6:00 pm at Hillcrest Memorial Center, 9353 W. Clearwater Ave. Kennewick, WA.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2014, Richland, Benton Co., WA, Obituary

Published in Tri-City Herald on June 15, 2014

Margaret Alice (Luther) Wood passed away June 4, 2014. She was born on May 3, 1929 in Kohler, Wisconsin to Adolph and Olive Luther.

Margaret had fond childhood memories of her time with family, church and the community in Kohler. At 16, Margaret moved across the country with her extended family and friends to Richland. She attended Columbia High School (Richland) and graduated in 1947.

Margaret met Ed Wood in front of the High Spot, a popular dance club in town. They were married in 1948. As a couple, Ed and Margaret had a busy and active life. In the early days, they spent most of their time with the extended Wood family, playing games, telling jokes and water skiing. In 1966, they built a cabin at Spout Springs where they enjoyed skiing, snowmobiling, watching birds and time with friends.

During the 1970s, Margaret helped establish the local chapter of NAMI and served in leadership roles. She offered support and education to hurting families, and created bridges of understanding between law enforcement and the mentally ill. She also gathered resources to help establish Jadwin House, a home for the mentally ill.

At 51, Margaret received her AA degree from Columbia Basin Community College. She loved reading and was a life long learner. Margaret and Ed Wood were married 54 years until his death in 2002. At age 85, she courageously made the decision to move to Vancouver, WA. She was looking forward to a new life near her daughter, Janet, and family.

Margaret is survived by her daughter, Janet Asbridge, (Bob), and grandchildren Joe Asbridge, Dan Asbridge, Eric Blankenship (Genoa), Mark Blankenship (Jes{mach}sica), and great-grandchildren, Ben, Berit and Cannon Blankenship, and many nieces and nephews.

Margaret was preceded in death by her husband Ed, son Michael, daughter Christine Blankenship, her parents and her sister Nancy Arbuckle.

Services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, June 27, 2014 at Southside United Protestant Church, 517 Jadwin Ave., Richland.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Chelan                                                                                                               

 

2013, Malaga, Chelan Co., WA, Obituary

The Wenatchee World, (WA) - March 28, 2013

Marna Lee Russell, 64, an eight-year resident of Malaga, died Friday, March 22, 2013. She had retired as office manager for the city of Lacey maintenance department in 2001, after 11 years.

Survivors include her husband, Doug Russell of Malaga; her son, Kyle Conway of Yelm; her sisters, Lynn Fraser of Port Angeles and Joyce Blankenship of Mossy Rock; and her brother, John Swales of Olympia.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are by Heritage Memorial Chapel, East Wenatchee.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2016, Monitor, Chelan Co., WA, Obituary

http://www.jonesjonesbetts.com/obituaries/Derek-Blankenship/#!/Obituary

Derek Roy Blankenship, age 19, passed away April 25, 2016 at his home in Monitor, WA. The tragedy of his death was in stark contrast to the gentle kindness he profoundly touched so many with. Born March 8, 1997 to Bart and Leslie Blankenship at Central Washington Hospital.

Derek was gifted with a beautiful smile that reflected from his eyes and could reach right in and touch your heart. Special and full of potential, Derek was known to be clever, and although the quiet one in his group of friends he was also a great conjurer of fun. Physically talented, Derek was admired for his strength, fast reflexes and ability to catch on quickly when trying something new. Riding his motor dirt bike, hiking in the mountains, fishing, camping and floating the Wenatchee River were his passions. Derek stood for always putting others first and an unconditional love for all animals and his family. His laugh would make you laugh and he was known to never have said an unkind word against anybody.

Derek was contagious and touched people with genuineness no words can truly capture. It has been said sometimes it rains the hardest on those that most deserve the sun. Despite the anguish of a condition those that loved him could not save him from, Derek will only be remembered for his brilliant light and when we are hiking and run across a morel mushroom, float by the rock cut or see the perfect skipping rock on the river, when we catch the perfect air on a motor bike jump or when it snows unexpectedly on Banks Lake, in the smell of a new born puppy or in the design of a cool Fox Racing sticker, we will only smile remembering how he uplifted us with his unconditional love and we will know he is at Peace.

He is preceded in death by his Grandfather, Roy Blankenship.

Derek is survived by his parents, Leslie Blankenship and Bart and Marea Blakenship, his brother Kyle, his grandparents Doug and Louise Eisenrich, Ed and Sue Schmidt and Monie Blankenship, his Aunts Jamie (Ryan) Vanden Bos, Trisha Johnson, Jordyn Ferguson, Brenda (Derek) Beach, Nicole (Tyson) Schmidt- Henry, and Cathy Collins and his Uncle Jon (Jorden) Schmidt, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service, officiated by Pastor Sal Dimare of the Praise Center will be held at Cashmere Cemetery, 1pm Friday April 29th.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2011, Wenatchee, Chelan Co., WA, Obituary

The Wenatchee World, (WA) - February 10, 2011

James A. "Jim" Miller, 71, of Wenatchee, died Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2011. He was a longtime resident of Wenatchee. He had worked as a refrigeration mechanic for 47 years, retiring in 2003.

Survivors include his wife, Anita Miller of Wenatchee; his children, Judy McVay of Quincy, Beverley Sandoval of Wenatchee and Devona Mott of Bellingham; his stepchildren, Kelli Blankenship, Kevin Blankenship and Kory Blankenship, all of Wenatchee; and his sisters, Betty Harmon and Norma Vickery, both of Wenatchee, and Freeda Strong of East Wenatchee.

Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday at Evergreen Memorial Park in East Wenatchee.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2011, Wenatchee, Chelan Co., WA, Obituary

The Wenatchee World, (WA) - July 23, 2011

Anita C. Miller, 63, of Wenatchee, died Wednesday, July 20, 2011. She had been a lifelong resident of Wenatchee and had retired from Lectro Tek in Wenatchee.

Survivors include her children, Kevin Blankenship, Kory Blankenship and Kelli Blankenship, all of Wenatchee; her stepdaughters, Beverley Sandoval of Wenatchee, Judy McVay of Quincy and Devona Mott of Bellingham; her brother, Scott Wilson of East Wenatchee; and her sister, Becky Mathews of Wenatchee.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday at Evergreen Memorial Park in East Wenatchee.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2013, Wenatchee, Chelan Co., WA, Obituary

The Wenatchee World, (WA) - January 29, 2013

Matra (Blankenship) Musgrove, 87, of Wenatchee, died Sunday, Jan. 27, 2013. She had been a longtime resident of the Wenatchee Valley and was a homemaker. She had also worked in the fruit industry.

Survivors include her sons, Robert "Bob" Blankenship of East Wenatchee, J. C. Blankenship of Wenatchee; her daughters, Lillie Foote and Valerie Wilson, both of Pasco; and her stepchildren, Howard Musgrove of East Wenatchee, Mel Musgrove of Malaga, Ray Musgrove of Benton City and Veda Daniels of East Wenatchee.

A funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friday at Telford's Chapel of the Valley in East Wenatchee. The service will conclude at the chapel, with private interment at the Wenatchee City Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2014, Wenatchee, Chelan Co., WA, Obituary

The Wenatchee World, (WA) Date: June 19, 2014

Charles "Chuck" Dale Peters, age 86, passed away on Monday, June 16, 2014, surrounded by his loving family. He was born October 9, 1927, in Wenatchee, WA to Charles Melvin and Iva Diantha (Inks) Peters.

He attended school in Sunnyslope, graduating from Wenatchee High School in 1945. In June 1945, he entered the Merchant Marine Training School at Catalina Island, CA, where he finished advanced training in late summer as the war ended. After a voyage to the Philippine Islands, he returned to Wenatchee and, in May of 1946, enlisted in the U.S. Army Signal Corps. He received his basic training at Camp Polk, Louisiana and was then sent to Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, where he attended the signal school. In the spring of 1947, he was sent to Frankfurt, Germany, serving with the Signal Battalion as a Central Office Technician at the Frankfurt Military Telephone Office. He was honorably discharged in 1949.

After returning to Wenatchee, he married Mayme Ellen Vaughn of Cashmere in April 1951. They lived in Spokane and Yakima for a time and then returned to Wenatchee in 1952, to raise their family. He worked at various jobs until 1952, when he was employed by Alcoa in Wenatchee, working as a maintenance foreman until 1967. That year, he accepted employment with the Washington State Department of Transportation as an electronics technician. He continued with the department until his retirement in 1993. Dad had many interests throughout his lifetime. He had a great interest in building and flying radio controlled airplanes with his sons. He enjoyed spending time with his family at Lake Chelan. He also liked to golf and fish and he was an avid reader.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Evelyn (Peters) Askew; and his wife, Mayme.

He is survived by his four children, Mary Ellen (JC) Blankenship, Carolyn Diane Loss, Robert "Bob" Charles (Leanne) Peters, all of Wenatchee and John Franklin Peters of East Wenatchee; six grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Graveside Services will be held at the Wenatchee City Cemetery Mausoleum at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, June 20, 2014.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Clallam                                                                                                             

 

2014, Port Angeles, Clallam Co., WA, Obituary

Published in The Peninsula Daily News on Apr. 13, 2014

Stanley R. Smith was born April 21, 1924, in Satsop, Washington, to Percy Linton and Martha Jane (Christian) Smith and went to his maker on April 6, 2014.

He was preceded in death by his older brother, Frank of Lilliwaup, Washington, and younger brother, Bob of Port Angeles.

Stan and family lived in and around the Shelton Matlock area. He went to school in Shelton until the 11th grade, when he dropped out to go to work at Simpson plywood mill. Stan's father died in 1930 after an illness caused by an accident at the Simpson mill. Martha (Mattie) raised her boys on her own during the Depression when work and money were tight. Stan and Mattie remained close until her death in 1979.

Stan worked several jobs in Shelton and Bremerton, Washington, before going in the Navy in 1942. He did his basic training in San Diego, California, and attended gunnery school in San Diego and Treasure Island before becoming an anti-aircraft gunnery instructor at Point Montara.

On June 23, 1944, Stan married his longtime sweetheart, Marjorie (Marnie) Ellen Krona, in San Francisco, California. They were married at the courthouse by a justice of the peace with his mother, Mattie, and Marnie's parents, Eddie and Dot Krona, as witnesses. The honeymoon only lasted for 28 days before Stan was sent out to sea.

Stan was stationed on the USS White Marsh, LSD No. 8. During his deployment, he visited many islands in the Pacific. They provided equipment and troops for the battle of Okinawa, as well as repairs for the other ships in the fleet.  He returned home to the States and mustered out on December 16, 1945.

Stan and Marnie had three children, Margie, Randy and Russell. Marnie passed away in 1979. Prior to her passing, they owned several businesses, including the Hama Hama Oyster Company, Eldon Hotel and the Rainbow Fish Company. Upon selling the fish company in 1960, he then went to work for Fibreboard until it closed in 1970.

Stan's next adventure was with Port Angeles Distributing making deliveries beginning in 1971. It was on one of these deliveries that he met his wife, Linda (Logg) Khalil, in the fall of 1980. They were married in 1985, and Stan later adopted Linda's daughter, Angela. Stan finished his working life with the building maintenance department of Clallam County. He retired from the county in 1998.

Stan always had a great gusto for life and lived each day to the fullest. He had a wonderful work ethic and strived to do everything the best way possible. He loved his wife, children and their families with all his heart.

Stan is survived by his wife, Linda; daughters Margie (Mike) Ewing of Harlowton, Montana, and Angela Smith of Port Angeles; sons Randy Smith of Port Angeles and Russell Smith of Monroe, Washington; grandchildren Rochelle (Scotty) Blankenship, Randy (Stacy) Smith, Brett (Kathey) Ewing, Gracelyn Smith and Domiana Badger, all of Port Angeles, Melissa Smith of Sequim, Mike Ewing and Kasey Ewing, both of Montana, and Travis (Laurie) Ewing of Belfair, Washington; and great-grandchildren Dean, Dana, Lachelle, Mary, Elizabeth, Alden, Andrew, Randy, Xander, Paxton, Hailey, Brittany and Mason. Stan also leaves three great-great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, as well as his best friend Lyle Beaudette.

There will be a celebration-of-life potluck at the Veterans Center, 261 South Francis Street in Port Angeles, on Sunday, April 20, 2014, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Please bring your favorite stories of Stan and your favorite dish to share with his family and friends. Inurnment will be at Mount Tahoma National Cemetery in Covington, Washington, at a date to be announced.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2014, Port Angeles, Clallam Co., WA, Obituary

Published in The Peninsula Daily News on Nov. 5, 2014

Richard Lee Haynes passed away on October 15, 2014, at 2:45 p.m. at Olympic Medical Center of complications from pneumonia. He was born in Parkersburg, West Virginia, to Eugene A. Haynes and Opal L. "Cindy" (Blankenship) Haynes.

Rick is survived by his brothers, Keith (Carla) Haynes of Port Angeles and Bruce (Teresa) Haynes of Smithfield, North Carolina; and his many nieces and nephews in Port Angeles, Smithfield and Ripley, West Virginia.

His funeral services will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 591 Monroe Road, Port Angeles, on Saturday, November 8, at 6 p.m. All are welcome to attend.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2015, Port Angeles, Clallam Co., WA, Obituary

Published in The Peninsula Daily News on Mar. 12, 2015

Ruth Marie Deaton-Woods, a 93-year-old resident of Port Angeles, passed away due to natural causes. She was born in Oregon on May 7, 1921, to Albert Gene Nobs and Bertha C. Ede.

Ruth was employed by the Fairmount Restaurant as a waitress for many years. She had also worked as a cashier at Walt's Boulevard Gas and Grocery Store.

She married James A. Deaton Sr. on August 15, 1942, and they remained married until his death in 1988. She then married Charles Woods in 1991 and remained married to him until his death in 1997. Ruth loved spending time with family and having picnics at the beach. She sewed clothes for her grandchildren and loved going back to Idaho in the summers.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, James A. Deaton, Sr.; second husband Charles Woods; son James A. Deaton Jr.; sister Ruby; stepdaughter Mary Ann; parents Albert and Bertha Nobs; and a daughter-in-law.

She is survived by her sons, Randy Deaton (Pam) and Herb Woods (Nancy); daughter-in-law Julie Deaton; grandchildren Michelle Treider, Billy Deaton, Jennifer Deaton, Kristy Melville, Denver Woods, Kaysie Peabody and Steven Blankenship; and many great-grandchildren.

A celebration of her life will take place at the Salt Creek Recreation Area, 3506 Camp Hayden Road west of Port Angeles, on a date yet to be announced.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Clark                                                                                                                 

 

+2011, Ridgefield, Clark Co., WA, Obituary

The Columbian, (Vancouver, WA) - June 9, 2011

Nancy Norris March 5, 1937 ~ May 30, 2011 "Nancy had a big heart and loved giving to those not as fortunate as she was." Nancy Norris, 74, of Ridgefield, WA, passed away on May 30, 2011. She was born in Akron, OH and raised in Bellview, CA.

She enjoyed working with Shared Hope and was active at her church, Vista Community Church. She took in foster children, wanting to give them a chance for the future. She loved her family and spent all her time with them.

Survivors include: her husband, Dwayne; her children, Glenda Joy Norris, Ruth Ann Norris, Palmer Lee Blankenship, Lisa Corine Blankenship and Sharah S. Byrd; grandchildren, Shilo and Ben Howe and Jorden and Brandy Blankenship ; and great-grandson, Ben Howe.

There will be a Celebration of Nancy's Life and homecoming Sun., June 12, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at Vista Community Church, 20018 NE 22nd Ave., Ridgefield, WA 98642.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2012, Vancouver, Clark Co., WA Obituary

The Columbian, (Vancouver, WA) - February 19, 2012

Kevin Cody Stratton [April 21, 1986 ~ January 16, 2012] died tragically on January 16, 2012 in Chico, [Butte Co.] California. He was 25 years old. Kevin loved the outdoors, motorcycles, hunting, gardening, rock climbing, surfing and snowboarding. He had many adventures and made numerous friends during his travels.

Kevin is survived by his parents, Lance and Denise Stratton and Nancy Kent of Vancouver, Washington; his sisters, Brigitte and Erika Stratton; brother, Jason Kent; his grandparents, Gary and Nancy Stratton, Naomi and Jim Blankenship , Gary and Barbara Richards and Gary and Mary Ellen Schneider; in addition to many aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces and cousins.

A celebration of Kevin's life will take place on Saturday, April 21, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at the Glenwood Community Church, 12201 NE 72nd Ave., Vancouver, WA.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2012, Vancouver, Clark Co., WA, Obituary

The Seattle Times, (WA) - April 2, 2012

Paul Joseph Huntzinger, 84, of Vancouver, WA and Palm Desert, CA, passed on Wednesday March 28, 2012. He was born in Casper, [Natrona Co.] WY, on October 26, 1927 to Royal and Ava Blankenship Huntzinger.

He served in both the Navy and the Army. He was a Bond Manager for Aetna Insurance in Seattle for thirty-four years. Paul was a master storyteller with a wonderfully dry sense of humor. He loved good food, especially desserts. An avid golfer and tennis player, he also enjoyed gardening, card games, traveling and art. He was an ardent Republican. He was a lifelong proud supporter of the Oregon Ducks. He cherished his close relationship with God. If there is golf in Heaven, we know he is hitting every fairway and sinking every putt.

He is survived by his wife Mary Lou Huntzinger; his sisters Kathryn Harrington and Margaret Farquhar; his children by his first wife, Nancy Huntzinger, Lucy M. Huntzinger (John Bartelt), Mark D. Huntzinger and Sarah Huntzinger; his stepson Brad Bethune; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2013, Vancouver, Clark Co., WA, Obituary

The Columbian, (Vancouver, WA) - January 31, 2013

Donald "Don" Dean Dickinson August 4, 1935 ~ January 7, 2013 ". He was kind, generous, and always willing to give a helping hand to anyone in need."

Donald "Don" Dean Dickinson, 77, passed away on Jan. 7, 2013, in Vancouver, WA, where he was born on Aug. 4, 1935 to Frank and Clara Dickinson. At age 16, Don joined the U.S. Coast Guard. After that, he had several other careers, but water was his passion. As a result, Don retired from Tide Water Barge Lines as a maintenance worker. He enjoyed wood working, hiking, boating, going to the casinos and most of all, spending time with family.

Don is survived by his wife, Mary; children, Steve (Diane) Dickinson, Dan (Ginger) Dickinson, Andy Dickinson, Kathleen Keller (Charley) and Ken Blankenship (Kim); 10 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and sister, Helen Coleman.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Betty Campbell.

A celebration of Don's life will be held on Feb. 2nd at 12:30 p.m. at Evergreen Memorial Gardens, 1101 NE 112th Ave., Vancouver, WA.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2013, Vancouver, Clark Co., WA, Death

The Columbian, (Vancouver, WA) - September 25, 2013

John L. Blankenship, 58, Vancouver, died Sept. 22, 2013.

 Cascadia Cremation & Burial Services, 360-213-2060.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2014, Vancouver, Clark Co., WA Obituary

Published in Skagit Valley Herald Publishing Company on Feb. 11, 2014

Joe Blankenship, formerly of Anacortes, passed away January 30, 2014 of a heart attack. He was born June 7, 1954 in Fontana, CA to Sylvia and Joseph Blankenship Sr.

He grew up in Southern California, graduating from Chino High School in 1972. After his mother's passing in 1973 he moved to Oak Harbor, WA with his grandmother and 3 younger bothers to be near his 2 oldest brothers who were stationed at NAS Whidbey.

In May of 1975 he moved to Anacortes and married Kim Baker. They had 2 children, Adam and Alison, in 1981 and 1983, respectively. After divorcing in 1991 Joe moved to Vancouver, WA where he went to work for Kaiser Permanente as a materials coordinator and later a computer specialist. He worked there until 2002 when chronic back issues forced his early retirement. During his retirement, as he had throughout his life, Joe enjoyed fishing, camping and all outdoor activities. He also developed his natural gifts as an artist and craftsman.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Steve and sister Elizabeth.

He is survived by his son Adam of Portland, OR, his daughter Alison of Anacortes, WA and brothers Robert (Michelle), David (Lois), Michael (Paris) and Jim, his partner Christine Stevens and her son Michael and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

 

http://www.zabasearch.com/

Joseph Blankenship - 2600 T St., Vancouver, WA, 98661   (360) 718-2140 

 

California Death Records, http://vitals.rootsweb.com/ca/death/search.cgi

Blankenship, Syliva A., 40, F, b.01/29/1933, KS, d.09/20/1973 564-40-4593, San Bernardino 

 

CA, Birth Index, http://www.vitalsearch-ca.com/

Blankenship, Steven Lewis               M, b.1951/04/08                Sutherland           San Bernardino

Blankenship, Robert Joseph            M, b.1952/09/25                Sutherland           San Bernardino

Blankenship, Josephwillia Neely     M, b. 1954/06/07                              Sutherland               San Bernardino

Blankenship, Elizabeth Ann             F, b.1955/11/21                 Sutherland           San Bernardino

Blankenship, David C.                     M, b.1957/09/09                Sutherla                             San Bernardino

Blankenship, Michael W.                 M, b.1960/01/23                Sutherla                             San Bernardino  

Blankenship, James R.                     M, b.1961/08/05                Sutherla                             San Bernardino

 

SSDI: Blankenship, Steven L., 50, 08Apr1951 - 12Mar2002, (FO), CA-550-80-0621

 

1940 Census, Wyandotte Twp., Wyandotte Co., KS,

Brown, Frank                     53, M, MO, Head,

Brown, Anna M.                 50, F, MO, Wife,

Brown, Claude E.                             18, M, KS, Son,

Brown, Glenn D.                17, M, KS, Son,

Brown, Dean F.                  13, M, KS, Son,

Brown, Gean R.                  13, M, KS, Son,

Brown, Maurice G.            23, M, KS, Son,

Brown, Evelyn M.              23, F, KS, DauL,

Brown, Patricia M.            01, F, KS, GDau,

Sutherland, Gladys M.       31, F, KS, Dau, Divorced,

Sutherland, Greta J.          08, F, KS, GDau,

Sutherland, Sylvia A.         07, F, KS, GDau,

Powell, James E.                19, M, MO, Roomer,

https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/VR22-2RH

 

+2015, Vancouver, Clark Co., WA, Death

http://www.cascadiacremation.com/tribute/details/170/Lisa_Blankenship/obituary.html#tribute-start

Lisa Blankenship, 57, May 21, 1957 - May 8, 2015

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2016, Vancouver, Clark Co., WA, Obituary

http://obits.columbian.com/obituaries/columbian/obituary.aspx?pid=182318338

Phyllis Eleanor Roth, 91, passed away peacefully in Vancouver, WA, surrounded by family, on Sat., Oct. 29, 2016. She was born February 3, 1925 to Joseph and Bertha Esther Reichenberger in New Rockford, ND.

Phyllis attended Enterprise Elementary School and Ridgefield High School in Ridgefield, WA and Northwest Nazarene College.

Loved ones who preceded her in death: husband, Elmer "Bud" Roth; and parents, Joe and Bertha Reichenberger.

Phyllis is survived by her daughters, Peggy (Dave) Christenson and Roseann (Gene) Blankenship; sister, Evelyn Roth; brother, Alvin Reichenberger; 11 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; 6 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great- nephews that she loved very much.

A funeral service will be held Sun., Nov. 6, 2016 at 2p.m. at Ridgefield Church of the Nazarene, 747 Pioneer St., Ridgefield, WA 98642. Graveside service will be held Mon., Nov. 7, 2016 at 10a.m. at Evergreen Memorial Gardens, Vancouver, WA.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Clifford G. Blankenship – b.01Sep1949 - Vancouver, WA: https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2M8Z-DWK

Relatives - Aaron E. Blankenship, Aaron Blankenship, Gene Blankenship, Roseann E. Blankenship.

 

Roseann E. Blankenship – b.30Aug1952 - Vancouver, WA: https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2M8Z-DWL

Relatives - Aaron E. Blankenship, Aaron Blankenship, Clifford E. Blankenship, Clifford G. Blankenship, Gene Blankenship.

 

Clark Co., SSDI, http://ssdi.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/ssdi.cgi ,

Blankenship, Edwin L.      69, 17Dec1940 - 02Nov2010,          Vancouver, Clark, WA,                   WA-531-38-0566             

 

Cowlitz                                                                                                              

 

2013, Kelso, Cowlitz Co., WA, Obituary

The Daily News, (Longview, WA) - May 28, 2013

Donna Mae Bishop, 97, of Kelso passed away May 18, 2013, at home. She was born Feb. 11, 1916, in Coal Creek, Wash., to Edward F. and Mollie (Blankenship) McRoberts. She lived in CowlitzCountyall of her life and attended Kelso schools. Mrs. Bishop owned and operated McRoberts Rentals. She enjoyed crocheting, crossword puzzles and playing the piano. She was a long-time member of the Kelso First United Methodist Church.

She is survived by two daughters, Sami Bishop of Kelso and Sharon Kitchen of LaPine, Ore.; three grandchildren, Becky Dailey, Kimberly Seymour and Sandra Kaip; six great-grandchildren, Geoph Seymour, Kelli Seymour, Kade Kaip, Kennedy Kaip, Cole Kaip and Kenny Dailey; and a great-great-grandchild, Addy Seymour.

A celebration of her life is planned from noon to 4 p.m., June 1 at 402 North 9th St., in Kelso.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

SSDI: Edward McRoberts, 92, 21Dec1879 - ??Mar1971, Kelso, Cowlitz, WA,

 

1940 Census, Ward 1, Kelso, Precinct 47 Kelso East, Cowlitz Co., WA,

McRoberts, Eddie F.          60, M, VA, Head,

McRoberts, Mollie E.        60, F, NC, Wife,

McRoberts, Edrich F.        24, M, WA, Son,

https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/K99N-P5N

 

1930 Census, Kelso, Cowlitz Co., WA,

McRoberts. Ed F.                             50, M, VA, Head,

McRoberts. Mollie E         50, F, NC, Wife,

McRoberts. Earl E.            20, M, TN, Son,

McRoberts. Edric .F          15, M, WA, Son,

McRoberts. Donna E.        14, F, WA, Dau,

McRoberts. Mildred E.      10, F, WA, Dau,

https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/XCSG-2Y9

 

1920 Census, Cowlitz Co., WA,

McRoberts, Edward           40, M, VA, Self,

McRoberts, Mollie             40, F, NC, Wife,

McRoberts, Earl                10, M, WA, Son,

McRoberts, Edwin             05, M, WA, Son,

McRoberts, Dollie             3-11/12, F, WA, Dau,

https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/MHFF-4YZ

 

+2015, Kelso, Cowlitz Co., WA, Obituary

The Daily News, (Longview, WA) Date: February 16, 2015

Doyle Lehew Blankenship passed away peacefully in his sleep at home Jan. 29, 2015, in Kelso. He was born Jan. 27, 1938, at home in Clintonville, W.Va., to William and Frankie Blankenship. He was one of 13 children.

In 1957, Doyle graduated from Woodland High School. Doyle married Nancy L. Wright Sept. 30, 1961, and proceeded to have three children.

Doyle is survived by two sons and a daughter-in-law, Clint Blankenship and his son, Joe Selph, and Timothy and Rebecca Blankenship; a daughter, Mary Richards and her daughters, Brittney Richards who has Doyle's great-grandson, Jackson Doyle, and Jacie Anthony.

Doyle retired from Weyerhaeuser in 2002 after working 40 years with the company. He enjoyed hunting, garage sales, road trips and spending time with his family.

No service will be held.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2013, Longview, Cowlitz Co., WA,

The Daily News, (Longview, WA) - March 19, 2013 Obituary

Clifford Doolin passed away March 14, 2013, at his home in Longview at the age of 73.

His loving memory will be forever treasured by his beloved wife Karen; a daughter, Linda Wirth (Dan); three grandchildren, Megen Blankenship (Wes), Emma Wirth and William Wirth; a great-grandson, Abel Blankenship; a sister, Janet Marx (Ron); and three brothers, Ken Doolin (Sandy), Cal Doolin (Karen) and Rick Oldfield (Char).

He was preceded in death by his parents Elsie and Richard Oldfield; a son, Jimmy Doolin; and two brothers, Bill Doolin and Barney Oldfield. Cliff was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother. He will be truly missed by all who loved him.

At his request, no service will be held.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2014, Longview, Cowlitz Co., WA, Obituary

The Daily News, (Longview, WA) - July 16, 2014

Loving husband, father and friend Roger William Decker was born Oct. 1, 1942, in Kirkland, Wash., and died suddenly June 30, 2014, in Longview surrounded by loved ones. Roger was a truly good man who led by example.

He was preceded in death by a daughter, Laura Jean vonKnoblauch; a sister, Janette Caron; his mother and stepfather, Hazel R. (Brock) and Jack E. George; and his father, Leo W. Decker.

Roger leaves behind his wife, Willie Jean Decker of Longview; two sisters, Rebecca Blankenship (Lee) of Longview and Jill Williamson (Jack) of Tucson, Ariz.; a brother, Jack George (Eileen) of Castle Rock; four children, Karen E. Newell (Jason) of Seattle, Kathryn L. Maguire (Kelly) of Arlington, Va., Anthony L. Decker (Noriko) of El Cajon, Calif., and Eric W. Decker of Makawao, Hawaii; six grandchildren, Alex Herrera (Jennifer) of Bettendorf, Iowa, Joshua Herrera (Megan) of San Ramon, Calif., Robert Decker of San Diego, Calif., Jennifer Decker of El Cajon; Justyn Patrick of Las Vegas and Marshal Maguire of Arlington, Va.; and a great-grandchild, Kaylynn in Bettendorf, Iowa.

A service will be announced at a later date.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2014, Longview, Cowlitz Co., WA, Obituary

The Daily News, (Longview, WA) Date: October 27, 2014

On Oct. 20, 2014, Nancy Harrington left this world to be with God. Nancy was born in Vancouver on Aug. 23, 1942, and spent her childhood in Taft, Ore., where she developed a love of the beach and swimming.

While Nancy was married to Doyle Blankenship, they had three children; Clint, Tim and Mary. During that time, she developed a love of the outdoors and several long-lasting friendships. Later, she married L. D. Cramer, during which time she enjoyed RV-ing and motorcycle road trips. On June 11, 2006, Nancy married Allan Harrington and became a part of a large, loving family who cared for her until the very end.

During her marriage to Allan, they enjoyed fishing along the Columbia River, being very active in Catlin Grange, flowers and gardening, family gatherings and reading nightly. She also took up quilting and tried to supply everyone in the family with a quilt.

Nancy is survived by her husband Allan Harrington; son Clint Blankenship; son and daughter-in-law Tim and Becky Blankenship; daughter Mary Richards; stepsons and stepdaughters-in-law Bill and Josie Belmont and Pete and Patty Harrington; stepdaughter Barbara Harrington; stepdaughters and stepsons-in-law Vicki and Patrick Derum and Elaine and Burton Lundquist; stepson and stepdaughter-in-law John and Sheila Young; stepson Keith Chambers; 19 grandkids and 27 great-grandkids.

She was preceded in death by stepdaughter Debra Young.

By Nancy's wishes, there will be no service.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Franklin                                                                                                            

 

2014, Connell, Franklin Co., WA, Obituary

Tri-City Herald (Kennewick, WA) - April 24, 2014

Richard W. (Sonny) Krug was born on April 20, 1957, in Connell, Washington, and passed away at his home on April 14, 2014, at 56 years of age from a heart attack.

He graduated from Connell High School in 1975, and served in the United States Air Force for four years as a jet engine mechanic working on F-4 fighter jets while he was stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage, Alaska, and Fairchild Air Force Base in Spokane, Washington. At the conclusion of his military service, Richard returned home to begin a farming career that lasted 35 years. During that time he mentored many young people who have worked for Paradise Farms during harvest over the years. He truly enjoyed working with young people and is called "Uncle Richard" by many. He was very giving with his time, knowledge, patience and talents, and would help anyone in need.

He had many interests which included flying airplanes, riding horses, hunting and reading books on science fiction and military history. But riding motorcycles and touring the country was his greatest passion. He was a member of the Gideon Lutheran Church and was always interested in contributing to activities in the community. Richard always had a positive outlook on life and was a down-to-earth person with unconditional love for family and friends.

Richard is survived by his wife MaryAnn, of 22 years; parents Bob and Jean of Richland, WA; brother Ron (Gretchen) of Connell, WA; sister Casey (Steve) Henager of Richland, WA; sister Nicky (Bob) Johnson of Richland, WA; Mother-in-law Peppy Bradley of James City, PA; sister-in-law Kay (Jim) Morgan of Kane, PA; sister-in-law Sally (Don) Blint of Kane, PA; sister-in-law Margie (Mike) Blankinship of Red Bluff, CA; sister-in-law Donna (Mike) Powley, of Wilcox, PA; sister-in-law June Bradley of Concord, VA; brother-in-law Mike Bradley of Concord, VA; and numerous nephews, nieces, grand-nephews and grand-nieces.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents Raymond and Alice (Betty) Krug, brother Randy, nephew Randall and step-grandfather Wilbur Krug. Richard has touched the lives of so many that he will live on through us all.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Community Center in Connell, Washington on Thursday, May 8, 2014, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. If you have a favorite photo of Richard, please bring it with you. The Krug families would like to express their deepest and sincerest thanks to all who have given food, flowers, phone calls, and visits to us. No words can truly express our heartfelt thanks to the surrounding community and emergency services that helped us in our time of need.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Grant                                                                                                                

 

2014, Ephrata, Grant Co., WA, Obituary

The Wenatchee World, (WA) Date: June 25, 2014

Craig Michael Dempsey, 22, formerly of Leavenworth, passed away on June 20, 2014, at his home in Ephrata. Craig enjoyed photography, working outdoors, and reading to his newborn son.

He is survived by his fiance; Jessica White and their three month old son, Christapher; his parents, Tony and Penny Dempsey, sister, Deanna, and grandfather, Ronald Blankenship , all of Tumwater; sister, Katrina Dempsey of Wenatchee; grandparents, Derl and Betty Watkins, and great-grandmother, Edith Lemons, all of Leavenworth.

He was preceded in death by his great-grandfathers, Loyd Lemons and Wayne Watkins; his adopted grandmother, Katrina Walsh; and cousin, Melissa Chatfield.

There will be a Day of Remembrance held Sunday, June 29, 2014, at 1:00 p.m. at the home of Edith Lemons.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2011, Quincy, Grant Co., WA, Obituary

The Wenatchee World, (WA) - May 10, 2011

William "Bill" Bierlink, 93, of Quincy, died Sunday, May 8, 2011. He had operated a dairy farm in Sumas, was a farmer in Quincy and had been a truck driver for Lamb Weston, also in Quincy.

Survivors include his children, Jan Veltkamp of Anchorage, Alaska, Monie Blankenship of East Wenatchee, Clarice Laney of Moses Lake, Brad Bierlink and Galen Bierlink, both of Quincy, and Ev Hakk of Sunnyside; and his sisters, Gret LeFebre of Walnut Creek, Calif., and Marian Lows of Tigard, Ore.

A celebration of his life will be held at 1 p.m. Friday at the Quincy Christian Reformed Church, 420 H St. S.E. Arrangements are by Scharbach's Columbia Funeral Chapel, Quincy.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Grays Harbor                                                                                                   

 

+2012, Montesano, Grays Harbor Co., WA, Obituary

The Daily World, (Aberdeen, WA) - May 23, 2012

Neva Tinnerstet Blankenship, a long time resident of Montesano and the Wynooche Valley, passed away peacefully at 97 on May 17, 2012, in Olympia, [Thurston Co.] Washington. She was a lifelong member of the Wynooche Grange and the Montesano Church of God, serving as treasurer of the church for many years.

She was born at home up the Wynooche Valley in 1914, and graduated from Montesano High School in 1932. She attended Washington State College, and was very proud of her many years as a 4-H member and leader, and of her trip to Washington, DC, representing the 4-H in 1934. In 1938, she married her childhood sweetheart and across-the-road neighbor Ora Tinnerstet. She had 3 sons, and daughters-in-law who adored her, and also 6 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren. During World War II she was a "Rosie the Riveter" at the Boeing airplane plant in Aberdeen. In 1953, she and Ora were given a Conservation Farmer of the Year award by Governor Langley for efforts on their dairy farm co-operated with his parents. She finished her working career at the Grays Harbor County Auditors Office.

Following Ora's death in 1975, she married Rev. Alfred Blankenship, and together they started a new Church of God in Sequim, Wash. She enjoyed many years of retirement and traveling with him before he passed away in 1994. In August 2011, she was delighted to attend the 100th annual Simons-Taylor family picnic up the valley, something she had probably done 95 earlier times.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Mary Simons; sister, Ruth Pevey; brother, Robert Simons; and son, Roger Tinnerstet.

She is survived by sons, Alan (Gwen) Tinnerstet of Shelton and Darryl (Vicki) Tinnerstet of McCleary; granddaughter, Heather Tinnerstet of Seattle; grandsons, Jay & Jeff Tinnerstet of Shelton, Jon Tinnerstet of Lincoln, Neb., Darren Tinnerstet of Olympia, and Brent Cummings of Spokane; and many nieces, nephews, and great-grandchildren.

A funeral service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 26, 2012, at the Montesano Church of God, followed by a graveside service at the Wynooche Cemetery, and then a Celebration of Life reception back at the church.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

SSDI; Blankenship, Alfred A., 84, 13Mar1910 - 18Mar1994, Montesano, Grays Harbor, WA, CA-564-05-4171

 

2014, Montesano, Grays Harbor Co., WA, Obituary

Globe Gazette (Mason City, IA) - August 3, 2014

John C. E. Sheldon, 64 years of age and a longtime Montesano, Washington, resident, died on Thursday, July 31, 2014, at Providence Saint Peter Hospital in Olympia, [Thurston Co.,] Washington. John was born on September 9, 1949, in Mason City, Iowa, to Caryle Eugene and Amy Lou (Cary) Sheldon.

John was raised and attended school in Iowa, graduating from Mason City High School in 1967. While in school he was a member of the debate team. He attended NIACC for a year and then enlisted in the US Air Force, serving for four years. Following his honorable discharge he returned to Mason City. He worked for the AMPIA creamery and then as a letter carrier for the Post Office. John returned to college, attending the University of Northern Iowa where he studied accounting and also attended a ministry college for a brief time. From 1975 to 1977 he ran his father's investment company.

He then moved to Montesano, Washington, where he had since resided. He was employed by the Grays Harbor County Engineering Department. He especially enjoyed the land surveying portion that allowed him to be out-of-doors. He retired from the county when he was 62. He was a member of the chess club in Montesano, enjoyed computer work and music. He was involved in writing a computer chess program and a book on the same subject.

John Sheldon is survived by a brother, Jim Sheldon (Mary) of Montesano; his sisters, Sally Sheldon of Aberdeen, Jan Blankenship of Forks, Cathy Kelley of Elk Mound, Wisconsin, Patricia Sheldon of Weaubleau, Missouri and Jo Stephens of Chattanooga, Tennessee; numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his father, his mother and his nephew, US Air Force S/Sgt Tim Davis, who was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2009.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, August 5, 2014, at the Coleman Mortuary Chapel in Hoquiam with Paul Hermansen officiating. Concluding services and interment will follow in the Wynoochee Cemetery in Montesano, Washington.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2013, Ocean Shores, Grays Harbor Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) - August 6, 2013

Dixie Keck passed away peacefully on Aug. 1, 2013. She was born Dec. 10, 1933 in Wayland, Ky., where she lived until age 10. In 1943, she moved to Morton, Wash., and later to Mossyrock, Wash.

She graduated from Mossyrock High School in 1951 and shortly after, married the love of her life, Zack Keck. They were married 62 years. Zack and Dixie settled in Mossyrock, later moving to Arcata, Calif., where they raised three children. They moved to Tenino, Wash., in 1988 and then Ocean Shores in 1999. Dixie enjoyed many years traveling, collecting antiques, going to garage sales, cooking favorite meals and walking on the beach. She loved sewing and playing games with her loved ones. Dixie cherished time with her six grandchildren.

Dixie was preceded in death by her mother, Velma Blankenship; daughter, Gwen Tucker; son, Tim Keck; and granddaughter, Nikole Putman.

Survivors include her husband, Zack Keck; daughter, Cynde (Albert) Ulrich; daughter-in-law, Jennifer Keck; and grandchildren, Jayme Putman, T J Tucker, Angela Tulley, Jeff (Dania) Cochran, Kate Cochran; and five great-grandchildren.

A reception and celebration of life will be held Oct. 19, 2013.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Grays Harbor Co., SSDI, http://ssdi.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/ssdi.cgi ,

Blankenship, Martha L.     86, 03Mar1923 - 30Jan2010,           Westport, Grays Harbor, WA,               WA-536-36-9847

 

Jefferson                                                                                                           

 

2014, Brinnon, Jefferson Co., WA, Obituary

Published in The Peninsula Daily News on Jan. 17, 2014

Robert "Bob" Crowell, 86, of Brinnon, beloved husband and companion of Claudette (Burton) Crowell for more than 44 years, passed away peacefully and surrounded by love on December 24, 2013.

He was predeceased by his parents, James and Ida Crowell; his sister, Pauline (Crowell) Aldrich; and brothers James "Bud" Crowell and Donald "Donnie" Crowell.

Bob was born in Tacoma, Washington. When he was a teenager, the Crowell family moved to Brinnon, which is where he lived most of his life. As a young man, Bob left a promising baseball career to care for his mother and siblings after his father's death. He served in the Army during the Korean War, then worked as a logger in Washington and Alaska until his retirement in 1977. He and Claudette married in 1973. Bob spent the remainder of his life as a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Bob was an avid sportsman who especially loved fishing on his beloved Dosewallips River. He also was an unbelievable gardener who grew acres of vegetables, which he generously shared to the delight of many.

Besides his wife, Claudette, Bob is survived by three daughters, Shelitha and her husband, Daris Blankenship, both of Tacoma, Sharita Burton of Everett, Washington, and Tamara Fountain of Seattle, Washington; son-in-law Joseph Fountain of Bainbridge Island; grandchildren Christopher, Tasca, Robert, Ariel and Adrienne; great-granddaughter Madeline Kropp; brother Richard Crowell; sisters Darlene Reiter, Betty Richardson, Carolyn Knivila, Naomi Swanson and Nancy Severn; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

We thank God for the gift of his life and the blessing of the time we spent with him. Immediate family held a graveside service on January 9, 2014. A larger celebration of Bob's life is being planned for the summer.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Jefferson Co., SSDI, http://ssdi.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/ssdi.cgi ,

Blankenship, Lorraine       95, 06Sep1915 - 10Apr2011,           Port Townsend, Jefferson, WA,       WA-536-26-3467

 

King                                                                                                                  

 

2016, Auburn, King Co., WA, Obituary

http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Wayne-Lovejoy&lc=7549&pid=177157178&mid=6744159

Wayne William Lovejoy, a resident of Auburn, WA passed away on January 3, 2016 in Auburn at the age of 82. He was born on January 22, 1933 in Oconto, WI to Leland and Edna (Collins) Lovejoy.

Wayne grew up for a few years in Wisconsin before the family settled in the Portland, OR area. In 1950, Wayne joined the United States Navy, and served during the Korean War. Soon after his honorable discharge in 1953, he moved to Washington where he later started his career as at Boeing as a plater, where he chrome and nickel plated parts for the airplanes. He worked at Boeing for nearly 40 years before his retirement in 1993. He was a proud member of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers for the past 45 years. In 1980,

Wayne married Nancy Norling Smith, and they enjoyed their 35 year marriage together. Wayne was always very active with his life. He enjoyed serving his community with several organizations, including the Renton Eagles, Enumclaw Moose, Burien Elks and serving as a Scout Leader. He also loved being active outdoors, whether golfing, fishing, playing softball, birdwatching, photography, or hiking and camping on numerous trips into the wilderness.

He was an avid gardener, and also raised beautiful vegetable gardens and made the best pickles in the area. Wayne was also an avid woodworker, and his family has many displays of his handiwork to enjoy for years to come. He also enjoyed rock hounding and later doing the lapidary work on his precious finds. During Wayne's later years of his life, he loved spending time with Nancy traveling the United States in his RV, and most recently, took up geocaching and exploring the world through GPS adventures. He was well loved, and will be missed by many.

Wayne was preceded in death by a sister Shirly Blankenship and his son Eugene Lovejoy.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Lovejoy of Auburn; his son Dwayne Lovejoy of Bonney Lake; his daughters Lori Clarke of Tacoma and Nancy Ellis of Auburn; his step-children Ramona Fritz of Ellensburg, Katherine Kastning of Ellensburg and Linda Maw of Auburn; his half-brother David Wasson of North Pole, AK; his sisters Helen Foster of Woodland and Retta Christine Hunt of McMinville, OR; 12 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

The memorial service for Wayne Lovejoy will be held on Tuesday, January 12, 2016 at 11:00 am at Price-Helton Funeral Home in Auburn. Inurnment will eventually be in the Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, WA.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2012, Bothell, King Co., WA, Obituary

The Seattle Times, (WA) - January 6, 2012

Travis "Babe" Harlin Jackson. Born July 17, 1935 in Violet Hills, AR. Passed away December 28, 2011 in Kirkland, WA. Babe was born to Thomas and Kitty Jackson (both deceased).

 He is survived by his loving wife, LaJean Jackson of Bothell. Babe and LaJean were married on April 16, 1955, in Wentachee, WA. They had 4 children James Jackson Sr. of Lake Stevens; Patricia (Gordon) Smith of Snohomish; John (Raini) Jackson of Snohomish; and Donald Jackson (deceased). Babe had 9 Grandchildren and7 Great-Grandchildren. He is also survived by 3 sisters, Susan Blankenship of Melbourne, AR; Laverne (Richard) Boolen of Richland, WA; and Linda (Dennis) Slack of Wenatchee, WA.

And Babe was preceded in death by his brother Robert Jackson. Babe was in the construction industry for over 50 years. He loved to hunt, fish, and golf.

A Celebration of Babe's life will be held at Echo Falls Golf Club on Sunday, January 15, 2012 from 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2011, Burien, King Co., WA, Obituary

The Seattle Times, (WA) - March 20, 2011,

Douglas Ray Stewart was born on September 16, 1937 in Vanceburg, Kentucky the 5th of 9 children born to John Franklin Stewart and Ida Marie (Harr) Stewart. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at the age of 73 on March 13, 2011 in Burien, Washington after a long illness.

Doug had a Barber Shop in Boulevard Park. He later worked at the Shipyards.

He is survived by his wife, Janice Lorraine (Slattum) Stewart, son's William (Morie), Frederick, Darren (Rhonda) and daughter-in-law Danelle. Seven grandchildren, Elijah, Shea, Erin, Charles, Wren, Logan, and Dalton. He is also survived by brothers, James (Betty), John, Dick (Barbara), Phillip (Loretta), sisters, Joy (Mack Chrisman), Lois (Lyle Blankenship ), Elmyra and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents and one brother Dennis who died in infancy.

A celebration of his life will be held at Lake Burien Presbyterian Church at 15003 14th Ave. South in Burien on March 22nd at 11:00 AM.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2015, Carnation, King Co., WA, Memorial

http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Seletta-Blankenship&lc=0209&pid=175959436&mid=6612220

In Memory of Seletta M. Blankenship. a resident of Carnation, WA

Cedar Lawns Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 7200 180th Ave NE, Redmond, WA

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2015, Cove, Union Co., OR, Death

http://www.lagrandeobserver.com/2015090982556/News/Obituaries/OBITUARIES-September-9-2015

Seletta Mae Blankenship, 98, of Cove, died Sept. 3 at a local care facility. 

A full obituary will be published at a later time. Loveland Funeral Chapel and Crematory will be handling the arrangements.

 

2014, Issaquah, King Co., WA, Obituary

Published in The Seattle Times on Sept. 14, 2014

Pamela G. (Cruze) Ratcliffe, 61, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on September 3, 2014. She passed unexpectedly but peacefully into the Lord's arms surrounded by her entire immediate family. Pam was born January 25, 1953, in Seattle, WA to Deane and Catherine (Reita) Cruze.

She was the eldest of five children and grew up in Edmonds, WA, where she graduated from Edmonds Senior High School in 1971. She immediately went to work for The Boeing Company. She worked for The Boeing Company for 16 years and in the midst of those years, she was afforded the opportunity to marry and start a family. Her family was her pride and joy and eventually she was able to leave the corporate world to focus on raising her children. She spent most of her life in Issaquah, WA, where she resided for over 35 years. She actively volunteered in the Issaquah School District for over 25 years, where all five of her children attended Issaquah Valley Elementary, Issaquah Middle School and Issaquah High School. Pam had been a member of Covenant Presbyterian Church (CPC) in Issaquah, WA, since 1984, where she developed many close friendships, and considered her CPC family as a second family. For the past 10 years, she was an Associate Broker with RE/MAX Integrity in Issaquah, WA, where she enjoyed helping friends and family buy and sell their homes.

Pam enjoyed music and loved to sing. She had the voice of an angel and participated in her church choir for many years. Her children were her life and the majority of her spare time was spent driving them to and from their many different sports and activities, cheering them on from the sidelines, organizing events as the PTA President or Team Mom, and encouraging them to follow their dreams.

She was preceded in death by her late husband, Robert James Siems II in 1989; and her daughter, Kyla Maree Siems in 1981.

Pam will be dearly missed by her husband of almost 25 years, Charles Ratcliffe; her daughters.  Kailee (and Tex) Blankenship and Kara (and Andy) Irvin; sons; Justin Siems, Lyle Ratcliffe (and fiance;, Julie Falsken) and Sean Ratcliffe; her beloved grandson - Deklan Irvin; her parents - Deane and Reita Cruze; her three brothers - Rande (and Celia) Cruze, Kerry (and Debrah) Cruze, and Kevin (and Lora) Cruze; and her sister; Laurie (and Howard) Knott; along with nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, friends, and many others who thought of Pam as their "second mom".

A celebration of Pam's life will take place on Saturday, September 20, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 22116 SE 51st Place, Issaquah, WA, 98029.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2015, Kent, King Co., WA, Obituary

Kent Reporter (WA) - January 15, 2016

Lee Bailey eldest daughter of Don and Effie Bell was born in Kent on February 23, 1917 and pass away on December 20, 2015 at her home.

Her husband Tom Bailey, brother Don Bell and sister Marcella Blankenship preceded her in death.

She is survived by her sons, Bob (Joan), Brian (Lynn) and Greg, 8 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

She attended Kent Schools where she took part in school activities, loved dancing, sports and acting in school plays. She attended the UW for a year.

In 1937 she met Tom Bailey and they were married on December 26, 1938. They were married for 71 years. They raised their boys on Scenic Hill in Kent, and enjoyed their home on Lake Meridian during the summer months. She was a member of the Orthopedic Guild, St. James Episcopal Church, and Valley Chapter #72 Order of the Eastern Star. Her family was her life whom she loved deeply.

Per her wishes, there will be no memorial service.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2016, Kent, King Co., WA, Obituary

The Seattle Times, (WA) - April 28, 2016

Anita Louise Thurber of Kent, 71, passed into the healing arms of her Father on Monday, April 25, 2016 after a long battle with cancer.

Anita is survived by her loving husband of fifty years, Capt. Thomas Thurber; two sons, Duane Thurber (Leah Williams, Kimmy and Anna) and Brian Thurber (wife Geri Shanks Thurber) and two grandchildren, Allison and Thomas Thurber.

She was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Maxine Stoddard of Oregon.

Anita grew up traveling as the child of an Army Air Corp veteran. She lived in Iwo Jima, Guam, France and several Air Force bases in the United States. She met her husband, Tom, while attending Oregon State University in Corvallis. Travel continued with her airline pilot husband from Minneapolis to Denver to Kent.

Everywhere she lived she made many, many friends. All described her as a loving, giving, caring, dear friend. She enjoyed working with her son's schools, the Keno ladies, gardening, and helping other cancer patients as they made their journeys through the illness.

Born April 30, 1944 in Spokane, WA, she was first in a family of one brother, the late Frank Stoddard, and sisters, Helen Blankenship of Salem, OR and Alice Kay Johnson of Walnut Creek, CA.

She will be remembered for that amazing smile and positive attitude that found the good in everything. She was a role model for all her family and friends in life and in death.

Services will be Saturday, April 30, at 11:00 am, at St. Barbara Catholic Church in Black Diamond. A reception will follow at Crest Air Park, Rismon residence, Covington, WA. Interment will be at the Tahoma National Cemetery, Kent.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2011, Kirkland, King Co., WA, Obituary

The Gazette, (Cedar Rapids-Iowa City, IA) - April 3, 2011

Anita Mae (Gogel) McDowell, 66, of Kirkland, Wash., and longtime resident of Walker, died Friday, April 1, 2011, at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy in Hiawatha. Funeral Mass: 10:30 a.m. Monday, April 4, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Walker by the Rev. Ardel Barta. Family will greet friends from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Sacred Heart Hall, with a vigil service beginning at 6 p.m. Burial: Sacred Heart Cemetery, Walker. Arrangements by Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Marion.

Survivors include her husband of 43 years, David McDowell; children, Angela Laiser of Oelwein, Scott (Coleen) McDowell of Walker, Michelle (Bob) Blankenship of Kirkland, Wash., and Rieko Oki of Nagoya, Japan; grandchildren, Dylan, Morgan, Colton, Maddalyn and Samuel; a new granddaughter expected in July; her mother, Helen Gogel; and siblings, Ray (Betty) Gogel Jr. of Ventura, Linda (Dick) Taylor of Belfair, Wash., Mary (John Sr.) Kelchen of Robins, Jan (Jack Jr.) Miles of Des Moines, Sandy (Pat) Cummings of Cedar Rapids, Sue Wooder of Morley, Patty (Richie) Price of Palo, Charlie Gogel of Springville and Phyllis Gogel of Cedar Rapids.

She was preceded in death by her father; a granddaughter, DaiShalynn; and brother-in-law, Dale Wooder.

Anita was born Dec. 22, 1944, in Holy Cross, the daughter of Raymond and Helen (Greiner) Gogel. She married David McDowell on Aug. 19, 1967, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Marion. Anita was self-employed as a cosmetologist for over 40 years in Marion and Walker. She loved canning, gardening, reading, quilting, doing puzzles, and going for walks. She was very active in her churches, both at Sacred Heart in Walker and Holy Family in Kirkland, Wash. Anita was a very loving wife, mother, and grandmother, always enjoying spending time with children.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2011, Kirkland, King Co., WA, Obituary

http://obitsforlife.com/obituary/324177/McDowell-Anita.php

Anita Mae (Gogel) McDowell, 66, of Kirkland, Washington, and longtime resident of Walker, died Friday, April 1, 2011, at the Dennis & Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy in Hiawatha.

Funeral Mass: 10:30 a.m. Monday, April 4, 2011, Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Walker by Rev. Ardel Barta. Burial: Sacred Heart Cemetery, Walker.

Survivors include her husband of 43 years, David McDowell; children, Angela Laiser of Oelwein, Scott (Coleen) McDowell of Walker, Michelle (Bob) Blankenship of Kirkland, WA, and Rieko Oki of Nagoya, Japan.; grandchildren, Dylan, Morgan, Colton, Maddalyn, Samuel, and a new granddaughter expected in July; her mother, Helen Gogel; and siblings, Ray (Betty) Gogel Jr. of Ventura, Linda (Dick) Taylor of Belfair, WA, Mary (John, Sr.) Kelchen of Robins, Jan (Jack, Jr.) Miles of Des Moines, Sandy (Pat) Cummings of Cedar Rapids, Sue Wooder of Morley, Patty (Richie) Price of Palo, Charlie Gogel of Springville, and Phyllis Gogel of Cedar Rapids.

She was preceded in death by her father; a granddaughter, DaiShalynn; and brother-in-law, Dale Wooder.

Anita was born December 22, 1944 in Holy Cross, the daughter of Raymond and Helen (Greiner) Gogel. She married David McDowell on August 19, 1967 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Marion. Anita was self-employed as a cosmetologist for over 40 years in Marion and Walker. She loved canning, gardening, reading, quilting, doing puzzles, and going for walks. She was very active in her churches, both at Sacred Heart in Walker and Holy Family of Kirkland, WA. Anita was a very loving wife, mother, and grandmother, always enjoying spending time with children.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2016, Maple Valley, King Co., WA, Obituary

The Seattle Times, (WA) - October 21, 2016

Robert W. Anderson, born March 15, 1954, sadly passed away surrounded by his loving family.

Bob's step father Sid helped raise him from the age of 3 and together they spent countless hours working on vehicles, boats and building dune buggies together. Bob learned early on how to hunt and fish which became a lifelong passion. He was a skilled bricklayer, a job he worked at for nearly 40 years and where he made many lifelong friends. Bob was known to be a prankster and great storyteller. He grew up to be an honest, respectful and grateful man. He was a loving husband to his wife Patty and a devoted father to his only child, Mandrell.

Bob was preceded in death by his father, Andy Anderson, mother Lenora Boshers, sisters Kathy Kuolt and Linda Anderson.

Bob is survived by his best friend and wife, Patty Anderson, siblings Joan Sexton (Wayne), Vicki Schwartz (Russell), daughter Mandrell Anderson, step children Stephen Palmer and Kristi Blankenship along with numerous Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Nieces and Nephews.

A celebration of Bob's life will be held at Lake Wilderness Lodge Saturday, Oct. 29th from 2:00 to 4:00pm. 22500 SE 248th St. Maple Valley 98038.

Bobby you are greatly missed already and in our hearts forever. FISH ON !

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2015, Redmond, King Co., WA, Obituary

http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Dorothy-Blankenship&lc=4422&pid=174704760

Dorothy Grace Blankenship passed away on Tuesday, April14, 2015 in Tacoma, [Pierce Co.,] Washington. Dorothy was born in Trinidad, Colorado on January 22, 1922 to Thomas and Grace Wilton.

She had five brothers, Tom, John, David, Charlie and Ben. Dorothy was next to the oldest, so she was the one who took care of her brothers. She met the love of her life Everett Blankenship and they were married in 1938 and moved to Washington. After moving to Washington Dorothy went to work for Skyway Luggage and stayed with them for the next 16 years, and then on to Boeing for many years after that. After Dorothy retired, she made many quilts and rag dolls for everyone to enjoy.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband Everett and son James.

Dorothy is survived by her daughters Barbara and Betty as well as her brother Ben. Dorothy has 14 Grandchildren, 8 Great Grandchildren and 1 Great-Great Granddaughter.

Services will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2015 at Cedar Lawns Funeral Home and Memorial Park in Redmond, Washington. Visitation will be from 9:00am to 11:30am and a Graveside Service will be at 12:00 noon

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

SSDI: Blankenship, Everett E., 67, 15Apr1911 - 01Jul1978, (VA), WA-532-12-5412

SSDI: Blankenship, Everett L., 85, 21Feb1913 - 11Jul1998, Tacoma, Pierce, WA, OK-440-12-7247

 

2011, Seattle, King Co., WA, Obituary

The Seattle Times, (WA) - May 8, 2011

Theodore "Ted" O. Petterson, 91, passed away April 18th. Born in Usk, WA, on May 20, 1919, he served active duty in the Marine Corps during WWII & Korea, followed by the Marine Reserves, earning Presidential appointment as a permanent Captain in 1956. Ted married Lila Blankenship in 1946, in Hollywood, CA; they moved to Seattle and, in 1953, settled in the View Ridge neighborhood where they raised their family.

His career spanned camera & photographic sales, working for Fluor Engineering on the Alaska pipeline, finally retiring from Civil Service after serving at the VA Library, Sand Point facility. For many years, Ted was active at the Granite Curling Club and loved providing music so his fellow curlers could shake a leg after a night on the ice. In 2003, Ted and Lila moved to Mukilteo, enjoying their new neighborhood and meeting new friends.

After 62 years of marriage, Ted was heartbroken when Lila passed two years ago. Their spirits have now been reunited, to dance on the clouds.

Ted is survived by daughter Pamela Felts (Skip) of Tumwater, son Ted Jr. (Jo) of Mukilteo, and loving grandchildren Jackson Felts and Katie Petterson.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2014, Seattle, King Co., WA, Obituary

Published in Tri-City Herald on Sept. 18, 2014

Douglas Wayne 'Doug' Bailey was born on October 5, 1973 in Hermiston, Oregon to parents, Charles D. 'Chuck' Bailey Sr. and Janet E. Blankenship Bailey. He died on September 13, 2014 in Burien, Washington at the age of 40 years.

Doug graduated from Othello High School in the class of 1992. He went to work for Alaska Airlines in 2000 in Seattle, Washington and later transferred to Washington DC in 2006. Doug moved back to Seattle, Washington in May of 2014.

He is survived by his mother: Janet Bailey, Pasco, WA; grandparents: John and Evelyn May, Hermiston, OR; brothers: Chuck Bailey Jr., Pasco, WA & Tony Bailey, Ogden, UT; nephew: Johnathon, nieces: Lyndsey, Caycee, & Cerah; great-nieces: Madi & Aria; numerous aunts, uncles, & cousins.

Doug was preceded in death by his father: Chuck Bailey Sr.

A graveside funeral service will be held on Friday, September 19, 2014 at 11:00 A.M. at the Hermiston Cemetery, Hermiston, Oregon.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2014, Seattle, King Co., WA, Obituary

The Seattle Times, (WA) Date: December 14, 2014

Robert Ernest Rogers, MD, age 86, of Seattle, Washington passed away on December 1, 2014, from a yearlong battle with ALS. Bob was born in West Palm Beach, Florida on November 16, 1928.

He graduated from Stetson University in 1949 and received his medical degree from the University of Miami in 1957. Bob joined the Army in 1950 and retired in 1974 at the rank of Colonel. He served as Chief of OB/GYN at his posts in Korea, Virginia, Honolulu, Walter Reed in Washington DC. and Madigan in Tacoma. After retiring from the Army, he joined the faculty at Indiana University in Indianapolis where he taught and practiced for 20 years. Bob was loved and respected by his patients, nurses and fellow physicians.

Bob married his college sweetheart Barbara Hill in 1951. They were married for 63 years until Barbara passed away in May, 2013. Bob and Barbara had a love of traveling that allowed them to set foot on every continent. Bob was an avid football fan, loved the arts, snow skiing, music, and enjoyed being a consummate baker, horticulturalist, and computer enthusiast. Bob and Barbara moved to Seattle in 2010 to be near family. They moved into Skyline at First Hill and have enjoyed many great friendships at Skyline. Bob was a devoted husband who loved his family.

He is survived by his three children, Robert Rogers, Jr. (Susan) in Maryland, Stephanie Thompson (Bob) in Seattle, and Cheri Heck in Indianapolis, six grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Bob is also survived by his beloved sister Betty Blankenship (Al) in Charlotte, North Carolina.

A memorial will be held to celebrate Bob's life on Saturday, December 20, 2:00pm, Trinity Parish Church, 609 Eighth Ave, Seattle. Interment will be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2014, Seattle, King Co., WA, Obituary

Published in The Washington Post on Dec. 21, 2014

Robert Ernest Rogers, MD (Age 86) of Seattle, Washington passed away on December 1, 2014, from a yearlong battle with ALS. Bob was born in West Palm Beach, Florida on November 16, 1928.

He graduated from Stetson University in 1949 and received his medical degree from the University of Miami in 1957. Bob joined the Army in 1950 and retired in 1974 as a Colonel. He served as Chief of Ob/Gyn at his posts in Korea, Virginia, Honolulu, Walter Reed in Washington DC. and Madigan in Tacoma. After retiring from the Army, he joined the faculty at Indiana University in Indianapolis where he taught and practiced for 20 years. Bob was loved and respected by his patients, nurses and fellow physicians.

Bob married his college sweetheart Barbara Hill in 1951. They were married for 63 years until Barbara passed away in May, 2013. Bob and Barbara had a love of traveling that allowed them to set foot on every continent. Bob was an avid football fan, loved the arts, snow skiing, music, and enjoyed being a consummate baker, horticulturalist, computer enthusiast. Bob and Barbara moved to Seattle in 2010 to be near family. Bob was a devoted husband who loved his family.

He is survived by his three children, Robert Rogers, Jr. (Susan) in Maryland, Stephanie Thompson (Bob) in Seattle, and Cheri Heck in Indianapolis, six grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Bob is also survived by his beloved sister Betty Blankenship (Al) in Charlotte, North Carolina.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2014, Seattle, King Co., WA, Death

Seattle Post-Intelligencer (WA) Date: December 29, 2014

Diana Blankenship, 53 of Auburn, Dec. 16.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2015, Seattle, King Co., WA, Death

Seattle Post-Intelligencer (WA) - June 4, 2015

Deceased Name: Jack Blankenship, 58, of Renton, May 22.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2016, Seattle, King Co., WA, Obituary

Published in Union Daily Times from Feb. 10 to Feb. 11, 2016

Seattle, WA —

Naomi Esther Paxton Southers, born January 11, 1919 in White Springs, FL passed away February 2, 2016, at the age of 97.

Esther is preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, William Fred Southers.

She is survived by her loving daughters, E. Suzanne Knoblet and E. Arnette Rattleff; loving granddaughters, Rebecca Rattleff and Carolyn Blankenship; great-grandsons, Michael Rattleff, Tony Rattleff, Corey Rattleff and Johnathon Eaton; great granddaughters Emma Blankenship and Camryn Blankenship; and great-great-grandson, Brayden Rattleff.

Mom was loved by us all and will be missed greatly. She was a very loving, devoted wife, Mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great great grandmother.

Memorial information can be found at www.washelli.com in a few days.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

King Co., SSDI, http://ssdi.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/ssdi.cgi ,

Blankenship, Betty L.        79, 15Dec1930 - 12Feb2010,           Federal Way, King, WA,                 CA-557-38-5205

Blankenship, Charles T.    70, 10Oct1940 - 26Feb2011,           Ravensdale, King, WA,                   CA-565-54-7815

Blankenship, Todd J.         44, 09Aug1965 - 15May2010,         Renton, King, WA,                          WA-534-66-3143

 

Kitsap                                                                                                               

 

2012, Bremerton, Kitsap Co., WA, Obituary

San Angelo Standard-Times (TX) - April 4, 2012

George W. Chrey passed away peacefully on March 24, 2012, at Hospice Care Center in Bremerton. George was born in Bremerton on May 3, 1926, to Theodore and Cecil Chrey.

He grew up on Rocky Point and attended Bremerton High School. He joined the Navy when he was 17 and was stationed aboard the USS Sea Wolf in the Pacific during World War II. Then he began his career at PSNS as an apprentice sheet metal worker. He took a leave to attend The University of Washington and graduated with a BA degree in Engineering in 1957. He retired from PSNS in 1981 as the Division Head of Engineering for the Quality Assurance O§ce. He was the grandson of early Kitsap settlers, Andrew and Bertha Chrey. He was an expert fisherman, having caught his first fish on Rocky Point when he was 4 years old. He traveled and fished all over the U.S. and Mexico. His favorite fishing place was Sekiu and Neah Bay where he and wife, Jean, would spend many summers and enjoy their days fishing.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Theodore Chrey, Jr., and his daughter, Carol Jean Preston.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jean Chrey; his sisters, Charen Blankenship and Karla Mc-Cullough; his sons William Chrey, James Chrey and Bryan (Kelly) Chrey; grandchildren, Joel Chrey, Cenny Preston, Hannah and Tucker Chrey, two nephews and two nieces.

There will be a wake held this Saturday, April 7th from 2 to 6 p.m. at 2922 Rocky Point Road, Bremerton. A salmon dinner/potluck and beverages will be served, if there is anything that people want to contribute, side dishes would be appreciated to accompany the salmon. In honor of George, this is an informal "come as you are" gathering. Around 4 to 4:30 p.m. there will be an opportunity where people can speak and tell stories.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2012, Bremerton, Kitsap Co., WA, Obituary

Kitsap Sun (Bremerton, WA) - December 19, 2012

Jean Marilyn Chrey, 84 passed away peacefully on Nov. 23, 2012, at Hospice Care Center in Bremerton. Jean was born in Bremerton on June 7, 1928 to William and Mildred Tappe.

After graduating from Bremerton High School in 1946, she attended classes at Washington State University in Pullman for one year. She met George Chrey at Perl's Pavilion on Arsenal Way. They were married on May 28, 1949. Jean was an accomplished pianist, artist and seamstress, but her most important job was caring for their four children and three grandchildren. While raising the children she was a piano teacher for many years. She also worked at PSNS for a time in the supply office. In the 1990s she worked part time with sons, Jim and Bryan, at Chrey's Jewelers. During this time she took classes at Olympic College with art teacher, Imogene Klett. She especially enjoyed traveling with the class in Europe to places like France and Italy to study art history. She was a volunteer usher at Bremerton's Historic Admiral Theater. During retirement years, Jean and George traveled extensively all over the U.S., Canada and Mexico. They always took fishing gear and whenever possible they would fish. Their favorite fishing place was Sekiu and Neah Bay where they would spend many summers and enjoy their days fishing.

Jean was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, George W. Chrey; her brother, Ted Tappe; and her daughter, Carol Jean Preston.

She is survived by her sons, William Chrey, James Chrey and Bryan (Kelly) Chrey; grandchildren, Joel Chrey, Cenny Preston, Hannah and Tucker Chrey; nephews, Michael Tappe, Gary Chrey; nieces, Kristine Chrey Stewart, Kelly Codorniz; and sister-in-laws, Charen Blankenship and Karla McCullough.

There will be a wake held on Saturday, Dec. 29 from 2 to 6 p.m. at 2922 Rocky Point Road, Bremerton.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2015, Navy Yard City, Kitsap Co., WA, Obituary

Kitsap Sun (Bremerton, WA) Date: September 6, 2015

William "Bill" Barron: One-of-a-kind business no more after owner dies

Each day, a handful of drivers still stop by the red-roofed storefront on National Avenue, looking for signs of life. This was the place that for almost 20 years William "Bill" Barron and his employees had the low-cost appliance market cornered in Kitsap County: a store where you could buy refrigerators, washers and dryers on the cheap, bring them in for repairs, and, failing that, drop them off for good.

That one-stop-shopping approach made Barron's store, AtBest Appliance Center, especially popular with landlords in Bremerton, a city where around 57 percent of dwellings are rentals. Not only was his popular business model unique, Barron himself didn't fit any particular mold. "He had a fabulous niche," said Chris Funke, owner of Kitsap Lumber, located across the street. "But Bill was more of a technician than he wanted to be a businessman."

About five years ago, Barron's employees and family say he suffered a stroke that debilitated him and made running his business overwhelming. The bills, taxes and stress piled up. "Once he had that first stroke, everything went downhill," said Lester Loudermilk, a longtime associate who'd worked with Barron from the beginning.

Barron, who died Aug. 23 of a heart attack, didn't leave a will, adding to the complexity of untangling the 60-year-old's assets and liabilities. Tim Olson, owner of the property where AtBest was located, said he must wait 40 days following Barron's death before he can move forward with any plans at that now-shuttered shop. But he'd like to see that same business model rise there again. "My hope and intent would be that we can continue that business, and that type of business, under a different name at that location," Olson said.

Barron and Loudermilk, who once worked at Troy's TV & Appliance on Callow Avenue, started a sales, repair and recycling center on Sunnyslope Road in South Kitsap in the mid-90s. Soon after, Barron, a Shelton native, would rent the Navy Yard City location where they flourished. At one time, he had around 20 employees, some of which lived in homes Barron purchased in the neighborhood. "He built a good thing," Loudermilk said. "When everything was going good, he would bend over backward for people."

An engineer for a time at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Barron's work ethic didn't leave time for much else, even a family. Unmarried, he spent nearly all waking hours at AtBest. "Even for a holiday dinner, he'd only close down for a couple of hours," said Judy Blankenship, one of his five sisters.

After the stroke, things began to slip away. He lost property and fell into debt. Through the weight of it all, he'd even shoved a customer in November 2014, landing him with a simple assault charge in Kitsap County District Court. Though the case was settled through a two-year diversion agreement, his bitterness toward the county government grew.

He wanted to move to Charleston and had rented space at 147 N. Callow Avenue. But the owners of that property quickly moved to evict him in court, saying he wasn't paying the $3,000 a month rent they required.

In his waning days, Barron had hoped to retire and perhaps move somewhere in the Midwest, Funke said. He was never able to achieve his goal, dying of a heart attack at the place he toiled for two decades. "He was a hard worker," Funke said. "Unfortunately, I don't think he got the fruits of his labor."

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2015, Port Orchard, Kitsap Co., WA, Obituary

Kitsap Sun: Web Edition Articles (WA) Date: August 11, 2015

Dana L. Sommers was born on June 9, 1929 in Nampa, Idaho to Allen and Norma Marler. The fourth of nine children, she spent her childhood in Wapato, Washington where she met and married her husband, Lucky Sommers, on Dec. 2, 1947. They moved to Bremerton in 1951 and then Port Orchard in 1956, where she resided until her death.

She was preceded in death by her husband, and her oldest son, Steven.

She is survived by her son, Stacey; her daughter, Christina (Gary) Blankenship; her daughter-in-law, Maria Sommers; three grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and four of her nine siblings.

Although she spent the last six years with Alzheimer’s, she never lost her wicked sense of humor. Just when you were least expecting it, she would deliver a surprising one liner! She perfected the art of grand parenting and we all could take lessons! Dana will be missed by many. “See you later, alligator!”

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Kittitas                                                                                                              

 

2015, Cle Elum, Kittitas Co., WA, Obituary

Daily Record (Ellensburg, WA) Date: January 28, 2015

Harrison C. Benjamin (Benny) was born December 28, 1922, in East Jewett, New York to Palaemon and Nancy Lord Benjamin. Benny passed away peacefully at home with his wife and son by his side, on January 24, 2015.

He is survived by his wife, Grayce; son, Fred (Betty); daughter, Kristen Payne (Mike);sister, Elaine (Walter) Johnson; brother-in law, Pat Hunt; 5 grandchildren, Shilo Blankenship (Tim), Meica Campbell (John), Jacque Reddy (James), Robert Moffat (Lisa),David Marsh; and 11 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his mother; father; sisters, Elsie Hommel, and Alva Hommel; and his brother, Harold Benjamin.

Benny came to the Cle Elum area in 1946 after serving in the Navy during WWII. In 1950 he was called back into service during the Korean War. Upon his return to Cle Elum he went to work for Alexander Chevrolet where he learned to sell cars. He eventually owned and operated McKnight Motors Ford Dealership and Garage and the Union 76 gas station. He spent over 30 years as a Cle Elum business owner. He loved what he did and did what he loved. Benny was an active community member. He was one of the original 15 members of the Chamber of Commerce. He belonged to Kiwanis for 27 years, American Legion, Masonic Lodge, and Cle Elum Roslyn School Board.

He didn't just belong to these organizations he was an active member many times acting as committee chairman or board president. While on the school board he was instrumental in the consolidation of the schools forming the Cle Elum - Roslyn School District as we know it today. In 2002 he was named Cle Elum - Roslyn Chamber of Commerce's Volunteer of the Year.

Once he decided to become less active in all of organizations and clubs he bought a swather and started cutting hay, 'for something fun to do.' He and several of his friends formed the first 'coffee club' in Cle Elum, he was the last surviving original member but the tradition lives on today. He formed a team of community members to help take people to Seattle or Yakima for their doctor's appointments. Benny was a true friend always ready and willing to help. He dedicated his life to this community and will be remembered and missed by many.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held January 31, 2015, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Rite of Committal will take place in Laurel Hill Memorial Park after the Mass of Christian Burial. A celebration of Benny's life will follow the Rite of Committal at the Putnam Senior Center, 719 E 3rd St. Cle Elum, and a luncheon will be provided.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2012, Ellensburg, Kittitas Co., WA, Obituary

http://www.yakima-herald.com/stories/2012/01/17/01-18-12-death-notices/print

Loman Doyle Blankenship, 80, of Ellensburg, formerly of Sunnyside, died Sunday [15Jan2012]. Mr. Blankenship was born in Manis, Mo. He worked in construction and owned and operated a campground.

Survivors include his wife, Marlene Blankenship of Ellensburg; a daughter, Rose Ann Sanders of Zillah; a son, Dorman Blankenship of Prosser; three stepsons, Rick Roehl, Raleigh Roehl and Rodney Roehl; three brothers, Claude Blankenship of Tacoma, E. Dwayne Blankenship of the Tri-Cities and LeRoy Blankenship of Prosser; three grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and numerous step grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The funeral will be at 10 a.m. Friday at the Corner Stone Assembly of God in Sunnyside. Burial will be in Lower Valley Memorial Gardens in Sunnyside.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Lewis                                                                                                                

 

2011, Centralia, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) - September 10, 2011

Mary Jane Coon, 88, of Centralia, passed away Wednesday, September 7, 2011 at home. Mary was born May 13, 1923 in Nemaha, NB to Joseph and Minnie (Wiar) McNeely. Mrs. Coon was raised in Table Rock, NB, where she also received her education. In 1941, she met and married Edgar Coon. Together they made their home in Centralia, WA. Mary's love and care for her family will surely be missed.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Edgar Coon; her son, Darrell Coon, and great-granddaughter, Meagan Erickson.

She is survived by her daughter, Beverly Blankenship and her significant other, Bill Thormahlien, of Centralia; her son and daughter-in-law, Melvin and Billie Coon of Chehalis; daughter-in-law, Darlene Coon of Lacey; five grandchildren, Tammy Erickson, Christy Carlson, Justin Feist, Jennifer Coon, and Joey Coon; four great-grandchildren, Billie Ann Erickson, Russell and Ryan Carlson, and Michael Niccolson. Special thanks to Melissa Thurston and her children for taking such great care of Grandma.

Graveside services will be held Wednesday, September 14, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at West Hills Memorial Park in Yakima, WA.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2012, Centralia, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) - January 6, 2012

Donna Louise Decker was born Sept. 16, 1949 in Grand Junction, Colo. to Floyd L. and Vida A. Decker. She passed away Jan. 5, 2012 at home.

Donna spent her childhood in Colorado and Washington. She was a Brownie/Girl Scout and a member of a dairy 4-H in Kent, Wash. She graduated from Bethel High School in Spanaway, Wash. in 1967. She also attended classes at Centralia College. She lived and worked in the Centralia/Chehalis area for over 40 years. Her multiple interests including scrapbooking, and warm personality helped cultivate many friendships within the community.

She is survived by her mother, Vida Decker of Onalaska; three sisters, Joan DeMoss of Tenino, Claudia Blankenship of Gilbert, Ariz., Cyndy (John) Jacoby of Onalaska; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are under the direction of Cattermole Funeral Home, Winlock, Wash.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2012, Centralia, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) - April 24, 2012

Our beloved Charlie Ward died at Providence Hospital [Everett, Snohomish Co., WA] on April 19 at age 89. He was born in Morton, Wash., in 1922. After high school graduation, Charlie moved to Seattle and worked as an electrician in the shipyards. He married Myrta Murray (who preceded him in death in 1987) in 1942.

Charlie is survived by his wife Ruth, his sister Blanche Blankenship of Morton, brother-in-law Marvin Murray of Virginia, daughter Carol Olsen of Chehalis, son Chuck and wife Debbie of Centralia, granddaughters Dana Selliken of Chehalis, Kim Barnes of Anchorage, Alison and husband Roy Herron of Phoenix, Crystal Ward of Molalla, Ore., grandson Mark Morton and wife Cheryl of Seattle, six great-grandchildren, one great-great-granddaughter, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Charlie was drafted into the US Air Force and served as a flight crew member from 1942 to 1945, flying 34 missions over Italy as a Ball Turret gunner. After the war and moving back to Centralia, he and his father-in-law, Marvin Murray, started War-Mur Electric Company; which he operated until his retirement in 1987. During his lifetime, Charlie was very active in the community. Among his accomplishments, Public Works Commissioner on the Centralia City Commission, Past Exalted Ruler of the Centralia Elks Lodge, past President of Puget Sound Chapter of the Electrical Service Apparatus Association, past President of the Southwest Chapter of the National electrical contractors Association (NECA), a member of the Centralia Kiwanis Club, patron of the Centralia Chapter Order of Eastern Star, a member of the Centralia Masonic Lodge (AFFI Temple), member of the Lewis County Shrine Club and numerous other Masonic bodies, past member of the Board of the former West Coast Savings and Loan, and past President of the Twin Rollers RV Club.

Charlie married Ruth Hatch of Tacoma in 1988, and the two of them toured the world and motor homed throughout the U.S. until last November, when he was unfortunately forced to curtail many of his activities and stay close to home. His artificial heart valve and later a defibrillator kept him active for many years. Providence Hospital's doctors and nurses are to be warmly thanked for their wonderful care during Charlie's last days. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He was a good man, honest, fair, loyal, and was respected by everyone who knew him.

In lieu of a formal service, the Ward family would welcome Charlie's friends to join them at a Celebration of Life on Friday, May 4 from 2-4 p.m. at Kitchen #1 at Fort Borst Park in Centralia.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2013, Centralia, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) - March 13, 2013

Carl F. Krause passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, March 9, 2013 with his wife and children by his side. Born & raised in Lewis County, Carl attended grade school in Galvin and graduated from Centralia High School in 1950. He was one of five children, born Feb. 19, 1932 to the late Franz & Sophie Krause and was the beloved husband to Delores Krause for over 59 years.

He is also survived by two sisters and two brothers, Babe & Ron Bates, Nancy & Dan Duffy, Gary & Jill Krause and Bob & Patty Krause. Carl married Delores Knapp on July 10, 1953 and had two sons and one daughter; Wayne & Tresa Krause, Larry & Debbie Krause and Susan & Rick Blankenship. He was a loving & doting grandfather to his seven grandkids, Toby & Monte Krause, Jason & Erik Krause, Lance St. John and Jason & Nathan Blankenship and eight great- grandchildren.

Carl served in the US Army during the Korean conflict for 2 years working in the Engineering Division. He delivered milk for Ardens during the 60s, worked through the Teamsters Union in the trucking industry and later drove tanker for Milky Way. He had a lot of fond memories & funny stories about picking up milk at various farms throughout Lewis County. He belonged to the Teamsters Local 252; Centralia Eagles; and served as a volunteer firefighter with Lewis County District 12 for more than 37 years. Upon his retirement he often helped out at Hand-n-Hand Recycling in Centralia and enjoyed many hunting trips with his sons and grandchildren. Carl was a gift we'll all be thankful for.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. at the Mountain View Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2013, Centralia, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

http://www.meaningfulfunerals.net/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=2067249&fh_id=14039

Carl F. Krause passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, March 9, 2013 with his wife and children by his side. Born & raised in Lewis County, Carl attended grade school in Galvin and graduated from Centralia High School in 1950. He was one of five children, born Feb. 19, 1932 to the late Franz & Sophie Krause and was the beloved husband to Delores Krause for over 59 years.

He is also survived by two sisters and two brothers, Babe & Ron Bates, Nancy & Dan Duffy, Gary & Jill Krause and Bob & Patty Krause. Carl married Delores Knapp on July 10, 1953 and had two sons and one daughter; Wayne & Tresa Krause, Larry & Debbie Krause and Susan & Rick Blankenship. He was a loving & doting grandfather to his seven grandkids, Toby & Monte Krause, Jason & Erik Krause, Lance St. John and Jason & Nathan Blankenship and eight great- grandchildren.

Carl served in the US Army during the Korean conflict for 2 years working in the Engineering Division. He delivered milk for Ardens during the 60s, worked through the Teamsters Union in the trucking industry and later drove tanker for Milky Way. He had a lot of fond memories & funny stories about picking up milk at various farms throughout Lewis County. He belonged to the Teamsters Local 252; Centralia Eagles; and served as a volunteer firefighter with Lewis County District 12 for more than 37 years. Upon his retirement he often helped out at Hand-n-Hand Recycling in Centralia and enjoyed many hunting trips with his sons and grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. at the Mountain View Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2014, Centralia, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Blanche-Blankenship&lc=7557&pid=170484050&mid=5918703

Blanche Blankenship, June 28, 1920 - April 3, 2014

Sticklin Funeral Chapel, 1437 South Gold, Centralia, WA

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2014, Centralia, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Myrtle-Victorino&lc=7558&pid=173115222&mid=6191003

Myrtle Louise Victorino went to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, November 6, 2014 in Morton, [Lewis Co.], WA. Myrtle was born to Walter and Myrtle (McIntire) Fleming on March 4, 1925 in Los Angeles, CA.

She was reared in Tarzana in San Fernado Valley, CA. On February 2, 1941 Myrtle married the love of her life Theodore "Vic" Victorino in Las Vegas. For 4 years the couple lived in Reseda, CA, then in the winter of 45-46 moved to Mossyrock, WA, then to Morton in 1964, to then settle down in Centralia in 1969. Myrtle enjoyed sewing, knitting, handicrafts, and gardening. Myrtle worked for Warren Smith Insurance for 20 years as a secretary. She also attended church at Mountain View Baptist Church and was involved in the Fords Prairie Garden Club.

Myrtle is preceded in death by her loving husband Vic, her parents; brother, Walter Fleming, and sister Leora Blankenship.

She is survived by her son Frank (Sheila) Victorino of Cottonwood, AZ; daughter Rosalie (Gerald) Gleason of Centralia, 4 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and 3 great- great- grandchildren.

A Graveside Service will be held at 1pm on Wednesday, November 12 at Doss Cemetery in Mossyrock.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2016, Centralia, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) - March 30, 2016

Geneva May (Justus) Workman, 92, passed away March 26, 2016, at Sharon Care Assisted Living Cebter in Centralia, WA. Mom was born in Blackey, Buchanan County, VA, June 11, 1923, to Paris and Virgie Stacy-Justus.

She grew up in Buchanan County and attended school in Hurley. Mom left home early to work, keeping house and caring for children. Being the oldest daughter, she had lots of experience caring for her younger siblings while her mother worked. In the early 1940s, she came west to Chehalis, WA, to work for her mother's cousin, Mollie Stacy-Hamilton, at her turkey farm.

Mom met Wayne Workman sometime after he got out of the U.S. Army in 1946. They were married July 17, 1946 in Williamson, WV, before settling in Riffe, WA, where they lived for 10 years near the Cowlitz River. Mom and Dad were married for 57 years, until his death in 2003. While they were able, they enjoyed their vegetable garden and canning the produce.

Mom was a good cook and prepared many a fried chicken dinner for family get togethers. She made traditional apple stack pies like her mother's and they were a favorite of her nieces, nephews and grandchildren. She loved her coffee and doughnuts in the morning and enjoyed reading her hometown newspaper, "The Virginia Mountaineer."

Mom was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne; twin sister, Genette in 1930; and brothers, James Edward Justus and Thurman Justus.

She is survived by her daughter, Diana (Jack) Williamson; son, Gary (Linda) Workman; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sisters, Josephine Workman of Morton, WA, Alkie Zandecki of Silver Creek, WA, Bea Blankenship of Columbus, OH and Mary Bradshaw of Mossyrock, WA; as well as a brother, Curtis Justus of Hephzibah, GA.

A graveside service for Mom is scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m., Friday, April 1, 2016 at Morton Cemetery in Morton.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2016, Centralia, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) - May 20, 2016

Elaine Adella Jorgensen, 94, passed away peacefully May 8, 2016, after a short stay at Sharon Care Center. She was born Feb. 15, 1922, in Hayes Center, Neb. to Errett C. Grant and Nina D. Grant. Elaine was the second eldest of nine children and big sister to her younger siblings.

Elaine's family moved to Washington during the dust bowl. She graduated from Prosser High School in 1941. After graduating, she moved to San Francisco and worked for Montgomery Ward and Pabco Paint Company. She met her husband, Elvin and married him Jan. 24, 1945, at Fort Lewis. They celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary Jan. 24, 2015.

She was artistic and creative and enjoyed painting. Elaine sewed many dresses for her daughter, when she was younger. She enjoyed working in her flowers and always cared for house plants. Elaine also bowled on a team for many years and acquired pins and trophies for her bowling efforts. She and her husband loved supporting the Onalaska Loggers and attended many games and tournaments over the years, rooting for family and neighbor kids. She was an avid Mariners and Seahawks fan and tried to watch every game. Elaine attended the Onalaska Presbyterian Church and was baptized there.

Elaine is survived by her daughter, Donna (Rich) Norquist of Eagle Point, Ore.; grandchildren, Joe (Renell) Norquist, Kirsten (Jim) Barnes and Andrea (Bill) Lynch; two great-grandsons, Alex and Andrew Norquist; brothers, Charles (Ruth) Grant, Errett (Novella) Grant, John (Valerie) Grant and Richard (Marjean) Grant; sister, Janice Carpenter; brother-in-law, Charles (Arlene) Jorgensen; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Elvin; sisters, Marjorie Biesecker, Jean Meese, and Marilyn Blankenship.

Elaine will be buried privately beside her beloved Elvin at the Salkum Cemetery. No service is planned at this time.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

1940 Census, North Prosser Precinct, Benton Co., WA,

Grant, Errett C.                 49, M, KS, Head,

Grant, Nina D.                   38, F, NE, Wife,

Grant, Marjorie M.           19, F, NE, Dau,

Grant, Elaine A.                 18, F, NE, Dau,

Grant, Charles A.                             16, M, NE, Son,

Grant, Merril J.                 14, F, NE, Dau,

Grant, Marilyn J.              11, F, MT, Dau,

Grant, Errett C.                 09, M, NE, Son,

Grant, Richard D.              03, M, NE, Son,

Grant, John L.                    02, M, WA, Son,

Grant, Janice J.                 00, F, WA, Dau,

https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:K99X-SG8

 

2013, Chehalis, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) - July 22, 2013

Dennis Merle Auvil, 69, passed from this life on Thursday, July 11, 2013, at 1:25 a.m., after a 3 1/2 year battle with cancer. He had been lovingly tended by family and hospital staff, with the timely assistance of Assured Hospice. You don't know how much that means until you experience it. Dennis was born to Jacob Merle Auvil and Mildred Fern (Walker) Auvil, on April 5, 1944, in Morton, Wash.

He grew up in the Eastern Lewis County area, with moves to the Tillamook, Ore., and Northern California logging camps, as his father followed the work. He graduated Mossyrock High School in 1962, and immediately joined the Air Force, where he served until 1966. The Air Force transferred him from Lackland, Texas, to Biloxi, Miss., Goose Bay, Labrador, and finally McGuire AFB, NJ., where he met his future wife, Carolin Herbert, who was studying music at Trenton University.

Dennis and Carolin had their first child the first year of their marriage, so they took turns going to school and working. Dennis attended Temple University in Philadelphia, Pa., and later transferred to WSU in Pullman, where he earned his BS in Journalism. After that, he and the family happily moved west to Mossyrock, where he worked in the woods as a choker setter until the job on the Chronicle opened up. There he worked from May 1973 through Oct. 1989 approximately, writing news stories on everything from sports cars, to the Cowlitz Falls Dam Project, to city government.

In 1986, he earned an award from the ICMA (International City/County Management Assoc.) for a series of articles on Centralia city government. After he and The Chronicle parted ways, he spent some time doing office work locally, working on home projects, and researching family history, for a book that never worked out. Then he applied for office work at the State of Washington. Even though there was a hiring freeze, he got temporary jobs, and finally got on at L & I. He stayed for about 11 years, and retired in 2010. He was always amazed at the appreciation people there showed him for the little things he did to help.

Dennis was no social butterfly, but he enjoyed a good political discussion, and joined the local Democrats in the 90s; target shooting, and helped with Civil Air Patrol; lending a hand, and became the Chehalis Lions Club Secretary for a time. He also loved hiking, camping, fishing, and photography. He much preferred hunting with his camera.

Dennis has gone home to join his parents; uncles, Art and Grady; and grandparents, Judy and Joe Blankenship, Ajlune, Wash.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Carolin, at home in Chehalis; sister, Linda Lee Fryberger (Ken), Naselle, Wash.; sister, Pamela Murphy (Bob), Scott City, Kan.; son, Peter Auvil (Melyssa), Centralia; daughter, Wendy Conejo (Tony), Riverside, Calif.; and seven grandchildren.

A celebration of his life with potluck is planned for Aug. 23, 2013, at 11:00 a.m., at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Chehalis, and burial at Doss Cemetery, Mossyrock.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2014, Glenoma, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) Date: August 19, 2014

Glenn B. Riffe passed away at home on Aug. 19, 2014. He was born Dec. 3, 1925, in Glenoma, at the home of his parents, Charles and Ella Riffe.

His loving wife of 69 years, Hazeldean, his daughter, Jerri Blankenship and caregiver, Becky Zapalac were at his side along with his beloved cat, Sparky. Glenn grew up and spent his life in Glenoma. He enjoyed the outdoors, was a sports enthusiast and an animal lover.

He is survived by his wife, Hazeldean; daughters, Terri Riffe of Tucson, Arizona and Jerri Blankenship (David) of Glenoma, Washington; granddaughter, Randi Lydum (Matt) of Monmouth, Oregon; grandsons, Tony Blankenship (Elizabeth) of Soap Lake, Washington and Todd Blankenship (Jody) of Roseburg, Oregon; and four great-grandchildren, Max Lydum, Gunnar Blankenship , Caden Blankenship and Hazel Rose Lydum.

Glenn was preceded in death by his only son, Tony A. Riffe in 1967.

Private Interment, Rainey Valley Cemetery at 9:00 a.m. Memorial Service, The Church at Glenoma at 10:30 a.m.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2016, Glenoma, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Annarae-Jackson&lc=7559&pid=177647506&mid=6792828

Annarae Jackson, 81, of Glenoma passed away on Saturday, February 6, 2016 in Morton. Annarae was born 1 of 15 children to Charlie and Ida Dotson.

Annarae was a devoted wife and loving mother. Her faith in Jesus was the primary focus of her life.

Annarae was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter, Linda Louise Justus, husband, Ballard Harold Jackson, and brothers, Robert, Willard, Carl, Troy, and Dave.

She is survived by her son, Allen K. Thornbury, daughters, Elizabeth Darlene Thornbury, and Connie Fame Dotson, step-children, Danny Jackson, Sally Jo Jackson, and Ricky Jackson, sisters, Penney Cook, Sibyl Blankenship, Ruth Parker, and Eileen Wimmer, brothers, John, Glen, Charlie, Hubert, and Dallas, and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be at 1:00pm, Wednesday, February 10, 2016, at the Rainy Valley Cemetery in Glenoma, followed by a celebration of life service at Jesus Name Church at Glenoma with a potluck luncheon following the service.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2011, Morton, Lewis Co., WA. Obituary

Published in Chronline on April 14, 2011

Richard Lee Blankenship, April 2, 1933 - April 9, 2011, Known always as Lee, Lee passed away peacefully in his sleep Saturday April 9th, 2011. He was born April 2nd, 1933 in Packwood, WA and was the sixth child of Huling and Angeline Blankenship.

Lee is survived by his sister Margaret (Edna) Neil of Packwood, WA, his brother John and wife Dorothy Blankenship of Ravensdale, WA, and his sister Dorothy Lintott of Seattle, WA, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Lee was preceded in death by his sister Shirley Kruse, brother Kenneth Blankenship, and sister Edith Silvaggio.

Lee spent many happy years with the love of his life Margo Schultz and her family. Margo's granddaughter Kelly, and Kelly's sons Cody and Saub, and Margo's son Poppy became the family he never had. Margo preceded Lee in death.

Lee served his country in the Korean War by enlisting in the Army. Lee's joy's in life were numerous: hunting, fishing, picking mushrooms and huckleberries, forever cutting wood, and spending time with family.

A graveside service on Monday, April 18th at 1:00 PM at Evergreen Cemetery, Packwood, WA.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2013, Morton, Lewis Co., WA, Funeral

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) - February 2, 2013

Betty L. Blankenship, 78, Morton, died Friday, Jan. 25, at Morton General Hospital.

A celebration of life will be at 1 p.m. today at the family's cabin in Morton. Arrangements are under the direction of Cattermole Funeral Home, Winlock.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2013, Morton, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

http://www.meaningfulfunerals.net/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=1940686&fh_id=14038

Betty Lou Blankenship passed away on January 25th 2013 at the young age of seventy eight. She was born in Fort Collins Colorado to Fred and Marie Schneider on November 23rd 1934.

She was married to Duward Don Blankenship who passed away November 17th 1999. Betty loved the outdoors, camping, fishing, and gardening. She was one of the greatest mothers and grandmothers you could ever ask for.

She is survived by one brother David Schneider from Grandview, WA., and one sister Sharon Schneider from Shelton, WA. She also has three sons and two daughters. Jandy Blankenship from Morton, WA. Randy Blankenship from Shelton, WA. Rennie Blankenship from Alberton, MT. Claudine Blankenship from Randle, WA. and Renee Blankenship from Morton. Betty will be missed by her ten Grandchildren and eleven great Grandchildren. “May she rest in Peace”

A private celebration of life will be held in Morton on Saturday, February 2nd at 1:00.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2013, Morton, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) - August 5, 2013

Borden L. Nanney was born in the Ozark plains of southern Missouri to James and Verna (Blankenship) Nanney.

He moved with his family to Morton in 1951. He worked for Reg Lester in his service station during high school and learned his life-long ethic of hard work from Reg. After graduation from Morton High School in 1956, he joined the Washington State Highway Department and learned engineering through experience. He worked on crews pioneering the highways from the Astoria Bridge to Naselle, from Raymond to Tokeland, and from Morton to Mossyrock during the construction of Mossyrock Dam. In 1957, Borden married Lynda Compton in Morton. They had two children, Ron and Lori, and she survives him in Morton.

In 1978, Borden joined his two brothers-in-law to form a partnership to buy a Christmas tree business begun by Lynda's father, Ellis Compton. After Borden's retirement from engineering in 1983, the brothers devoted their time into making Tilton Valley Trees one of the premier Christmas tree operations in the state. Borden became President of the Northwest Christmas Tree Association in 1986, followed in 1991 by presidency of the National Christmas Tree Association. In this role he made many contacts around the globe, including twice visiting the White House to present the Blue Room Christmas tree to First Lady Barbara Bush. In 1992, he met President George Bush '41' after the presentation.

At home, Borden was instrumental in forming the Morton Hospital Foundation and was its first president. He spear-headed successful bond campaigns for the new Morton hospital, and to do major remodeling at Morton schools. On Nov. 1, 1998, he was stricken with encephalitis and his cognitive life ended. After home care, he lived at Liberty Country Place in Centralia and later at Morton Manor in Morton, where he passed away, after nearly 15 years of custodial care.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Lynda; his daughter, Lori (John) Schneider of Hayden, Idaho; and his son, Ron (Victoria) of Naselle, Wash., grandson, Danny Schneider (Bethany); granddaughters, Jill (Josh) and Emily Schneider of Idaho; brother, Robert, who lives in Utah.

Borden was preceded in death by a brother, James, and two sisters, Ann and Bernice.

A celebration of life will be held in Morton at the Lyle Building at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 18, followed by his favorite spaghetti dinner.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2014, Morton, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) Date: June 18, 2014

Kathy (Kay) Lee Blankenship 42, of Morton, Wash. went to be with the Lord on June 13, 2014.

Kay lived all of her life in Washington State. She made many friends everywhere she went. She would always greet with a big hug and a happy smile or giggle. She was very loving and happy to lend a hand. The love of her life was John Roberts, they spent more than 20 years sharing their lives together. They enjoyed spending time together, taking long walks and talking and spent time at the fair each summer as it was one of Kay's favorite things to do. Kay loved spending time with her family. She enjoyed family reunions or get-togethers, where she could share hugs, laughter and childhood memories. She loved spending time with her mom and loved the times she came and stayed a few days. Kay had a special place in her heart for her twin sister Kim, she always brought her something special. She didn't have much, but she had a big heart and she loved the time she got to spend talking with her brother Kenny and adopted sister Melissa. God took this angel home, but her happiness will always be remembered. We have been blessed to know her.

Kay is survived by her husband, John Roberts of Morton, Wash.; mother, Rosie Young of Onalaska, Wash.; father, Darell (Cindy) Blankenship of Rochester, Wash.; brother, Kenny Young of Onalaska, Wash.; twin sister, Kim Blankenship of Onalaska, Wash.; sisters, Lovella Knopp, Danielle Doleman and Deanna Blankenship; adopted sisters, Melissa Nasson and Monica Huffman; as well as aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her step-father, Melton Young.

Services will be held on June 21, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. at Onalaska Assembly of God Church, 133 Leonard Rd., Onalaska, WA 98570. Burial to follow at Alpha Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Public Records: https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/QJVM-VTXY

Blankenship, Darell b.31 Jul 1947 – 1993 Rochester, WA

 

2010, Mossyrock, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, Posted: Tuesday, September 21, 2010

http://www.chronline.com/records/article_d5bf22b6-c5a4-11df-9e1e-001cc4c03286.html

Leora Grace Blankenship, 78, Mossyrock, died Thursday, Sept. 16, at home. A memorial service will be held 1 p.m. Thursday at Richland Valley Church of the Brethren, Mossyrock.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2010, Mossyrock, Lewis Co., WA, Memorial

Published in Chronline on September 21, 2010

Leora Grace Blankenship (1931-2010) Mom was a peacemaker and she was dearly loved. We miss her so much. She passed away to the loving arms of Jesus on September 16, 2010. Mom was born on November 26, 1931 to Walter and Myrtle Fleming in Van Nuys, CA.

After graduation she went to visit her sister in Mossyrock. She met the love of her life, Arnold Blankenship. While they were dating she would wait for him to stop by after work but if it got too late she would go to bed. But she knew the sound of his logging truck and could hear it coming up the prairie and she would be dressed waiting for him on the porch by the time he got there. They were married on August 27, 1949 in Mossyrock. They had three children. Barbara Lovelady in 1950, Roger Blankenship in 1953, who passed away from SIDS and God gave them Dave Blankenship two years to the date of Roger passing away.

She went from a city gal to a farmer's wife and learned how to milk cows and drive tractor. Mom was very talented in many ways. She could sew anything even without a pattern. She also made porcelain dolls that she received numerous awards at the fair. Her daughter was fortunate enough to receive a family of large Indian dolls and granddaughters and other family members were given one as well. The largest one she made was "Lady Grace", stands 5'4", which she gave to her son and daughter-in-law. She also worked with leather. Other hobbies were her roses, gardening, raising canaries, candle making, auctions, garage sales and baking. Everyone especially enjoyed her cinnamon rolls. She was well known for making baby quilts for all the babies born at the Assembly of God Church in Mossyrock. Mom loved her animals and her dog Chulo misses her very much.

She worked for Lewis County Juvenile for many years and was a dog groomer. Mom was a member of the Richland Valley Church of the Brethren at Ajlune. Mom and Dad also enjoyed belonging to the Mossyrock Damsighters Square Dance Club and the Mossyrock Grange.

She is survived by husband Arnold, daughter Barbara Lovelady, son Dave (Joyce) Blankenship and stepson Rick (Carol) Reed. She loved her grandchildren dearly: Marco (Tami Davis) Trejo, Rebecca (Jesse) Trejo-Dunham, Amanda Perez and Megan (Doug Taylor) Blankenship, great grandson Rafael Perez, step-grandchildren: Ernie (Nancy) Reed, Dinean Reeves, Troy (Daniel) Reed, Mindy (Chris) Fay, step-great grandchildren: Joshua Malchow, Ashley Malchow, Tyler Reeves, Lacey Malchow, Tony Reeves, Tino Reed, Johnathan Reed, Virginia Reed, Samantha Fay, Lauren Fay, step-great great grandchildren: Jessy Childress and Triston Malchow. There were many friends of their children and grandchildren that called her grandma.

Mom is also survived by a sister, Myrt Victorino in Chehalis and a brother Paul (Betty) Fleming in Kernville, CA as well as several nieces and nephews. Mom and Dad also had foster children.

She was preceded in death by son Roger Blankenship, parents Walter and Myrtle Fleming, grandparents, son-in-law Garry Lovelady and step-grandson Jessy Reed.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2011, Mossyrock, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

Published in Chronline on February 2, 2011

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/chronline/obituary.aspx?n=william-arnold-blankenship&pid=148286808

              William Arnold Blankenship

Dad will be dearly missed. He passed away on January 26, 2011. He is now where he wanted to be with Jesus and his wife Leora. Dad was born September 26, 1924 in Ethel, WA to William Noah Blankenship and Madorra Segretta (Workman) Blankenship.

Dad always dreamed of going turkey hunting and panning for gold. He did enjoy going to farm auctions, elk hunting with his son Dave, brother Swede and nephew Lee and clam digging with his son-in-law Garry. Mom and Dad also enjoyed belonging to the Mossyrock Damsighters Square Dance Club and the Mossyrock Grange.

Dad joined the Marines in 1944 and served during World War II. He was then called back to serve again in 1950 going to Japan and Korea. After serving his country, he returned home and became a farmer. On the dairy farm he would start milking in the morning and leave to go drive trucks for Champion while Mom would go and finish milking the cows. When Dad came home from driving trucks then it was time for him to go milk cows again in the evening. It was great growing up on the farm. Mom and Dad had a dairy farm until the Mossyrock Dam was built and then they moved up on the hill by his father. Dad then continued farming with beef cattle. Dad worked for Champion International from 1955-1987 when he retired after 32 years of driving logging trucks. He also drove trucks for J. Griam, Ed Ayers and S.J. Grasseth.

He is survived by daughter Barbara Lovelady; sons, Dave (Joyce) Blankenship and Rick (Carol) Reed. He loved his grandchildren dearly: Marco (Tami Davis) Trejo, Rebecca (Jesse) Trejo-Dunham, Amanda Perez, Megan (Doug Taylor) Blankenship, Mindy (Chris) Fay, Troy (Daniel) Reed, great grandson Rafael Perez, great granddaughters Samantha Fay, Lauren Fay; step-grandchildren: Erine (Nancy) Reed, Dinean Reeves; step-great grandchildren: Joshua Malchow, Ashley Malchow, Tyler Reeves, Lacey Malchow, Tony Reeves, Tino Reed, Jonathan Reed, Virginia Reed; step-great great grandchildren: Jessy Childress and Triston Malchow. There were many friends of their grandchildren that called him grandpa. Dad is also survived by brothers Swede (Barbara) Blankenship in Lake Chelan, WA and Delmon (Connie) Blankenship in Olympia, a sisiter-in-law Myrt Victorino in Chehalis and a brother-in-law Paul (Betty) Fleming in Kernville, CA as well as serveral nieces and nephews. Mom and Dad also had foster children.

He was preceded in death by his wife Leora (9/16/2010); son, Roger Blankenship; parents, Noah and Greta Blankenship; grandparents, T.I. and Mary Blankenship; half-brothers, Enos, Oscar, Jack, Neuhman, Don; and brothers, Harry and Freeman Blankenship; half-sisters, Inez Blankenship and Mildred Dow; son-in-law, Garry Lovelady; and grandson, Jessy Reed.

We would like to thank the people who cared for him over the last few years: Megan Blankenship, Doug Taylor, Elsie Kirk, Sally Cowles and Janet Tevis. Thank you to Pastor George Page, Pastor Eldon Iverson, and Sticklin Funeral Chapel for their assistance during this difficult time. We also want to thank Mossyrock Lewis County Fire District #3 for the loving care they gave Dad.

A celebration of life for Dad will be held on February 4, 2011 at 1 PM at the Richland Valley Church of the Brethren (118 Swofford Road) at Ajlune and a potluck will follow at the Mossyrock Grange #355 (152 Isbell Road).

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2012, Mossyrock, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) - July 3, 2012

Arnold Collins, 88, a resident of Mossyrock, Wash., died Saturday, June 30, 2012 in Seattle, Wash. He was born May 16, 1924 to William H. and Matilda (Lusk) Collins in Doty, Wash.

Following his graduation from Mossyrock High School in 1942, Arnold joined the U.S. Navy. Following his military service, he began his career in logging in Washington, Oregon and Alaska, though he always had a home in Ajlune/Mossyrock. Arnold was known for his generosity and would give you, or anyone who asked, the shirt off his back. He was an outdoorsman who loved both hunting and fishing.

He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Roy and Lyle Collins, and sisters, Elsie DeRossett, LaNora Shellenberger and Dora Pittman.

He is survived by sisters, Halie Blankenship of Mossyrock, Nina Swindler of Winlock and nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sticklin Funeral Chapel.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2015, Napavine, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) - December 4, 2015

Meta Louise (Snyder) West went to be with the Lord Nov. 30, 2015. She was born Nov. 22, 1938 in Auburn, [King Co.,] Washington to Glen and Meta (Russert) Snyder. She was the fourth of twelve children.

Meta graduated from Pe Ell, Washington in 1957. That was the first class to graduate from the new Pe Ell school building. Meta met the love of her life in Pe Ell, Leroy West. They were married June 15, 1956 in Doty, Washington.

She is survived by her husband, Leroy; sons, Leroy Jr., Chuck and Mark; 18 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren; siblings, Glen (Butch) and Kathi Snyder, Glenda Hunter, Joy and Hal McCracken, Sally Blankenship , Gloria and Jim Ragsdale, Sue Jones, Mary Leavitt, Nancy Kalnoski and Nina and Mike Lindy; in-laws, Leslie and Helen West and Joyce and Dale Nelson.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Ronald Snyder; in-laws; cousins; nieces; nephews; and many other people that meant the world to her that were ready to meet her again.

Meta's family meant the world to her and she always had a houseful. She made a large impact on anyone that got the honor of meeting her. She taught us all how to be strong and to love unconditionally with all of our hearts.

Graveside service will be held Saturday, Dec. 12, 2015 at the Napavine Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. and a celebration of life to follow at Napavine Assembly of God from noon to 4:00 p.m.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2012, Onalaska, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) - April 3, 2012

Melton Frank Young went home to be with the Lord on April 1, 2012.

He was proceeded in death by his father Frank Young and mother Hedwig (Hoffman) Young.

He is survived by his wife Rosie (Corp) Young at the family home; daughter Melody Ayala, Onalaska; step children Kenneth Young, Chehalis, Kathy Blankenship , Longview, and Kimberly Young at the family home; brother Kenneth (Jeannie) Young, Longbranch and sister Rosily (Bill) Towner, Hoquiam; grandchildren Melissa, Roy, Cody and Trinity; and four great- grandchildren.

Services are Friday April 6, 2012 at 2 p.m. at the Onalaska Assembly of God Church, 133 Leonard Rd., Onalaska, Wash. Burial to follow at Napavine Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2016, Onalaska, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) - November 18, 2016

Calvin Neil Lyons was born Aug. 15, 1921, in Callaway, Neb., went to be with his Lord at the age of 95, Nov. 13, 2016. He peacefully passed away at his home surrounded by his daughters. Neil was one of 13 children born to William (Bill) and Maggie (Nelson) Lyons.

The family moved west and settled in Onalaska when he was 18. He joined the United State Merchant Marines in 1939, and served his country in World War II. He worked in the logging industry for over 70 years, driving log truck for 63 of those years. Neil retired from driving at the age of 88.

Neil was a member of the Onalaska Masons, the Community Presbyterian Church, Onalaska Fire Department and the Two-Cylinder Club. He loved dancing, restoring John Deere tractors and raising a big garden and Angus cattle.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Delores Rice, Charles Wayne, Ralph, Everett and Willard (Buck); sons-in-law, Dave Baldwin and Dan Rakoz.

Neil married Grace (Stonex) Lyons Aug. 8, 1949. They had three daughters, Kaye (Mike) McGraw, three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, Connie Rakoz, four grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren and Debby (Stan) Blankenship, two grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; sisters, Evelyn Miller and Maxine Cox; brothers, William (Bill), Robert (Bob) and Roger.

A celebration of life will we held Friday, Dec. 2, 2016, at 1 p.m., at the Creekside Event Center, 2923 Jackson Hwy, Chehalis.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2012, Packwood, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) - January 19, 2012

Paul Harding Lewis of Packwood, Wash. passed away Jan. 6, 2012 in Roseburg, [Douglas Co.] Ore., surrounded by family. Paul was born at home on Aug. 23, 1921, in Kopiah, Wash., or The Little Hannaford Valley, to Oscar and Maude Lewis.

He had three older brothers: James Burton, Melbourne, and Judson who preceded him in death, and his twin sister Pauline. He graduated from Centralia High School in 1939 where he met his wife, Marie Blankenship. They married in 1941 and were married for 65 years. Marie preceded him in death on Nov. 17, 2006. Paul and Marie lived in the Little Hannaford next to his parents and assisted them in farming activities throughout the war years. Then in 1948 Paul and Marie moved to Packwood, Wash., where he began his lifetime career in logging. After a couple of tries, he became a successful contract logger. He was always proud of being a "gypo logger" and embraced a lifestyle that placed him daily in nature. He was a successful hunter and fisherman, enjoying the latter in Washington and in Alaska at his daughter's fishing lodge. Paul's hunting stories and poetry were legendary… "Way up there on Courtrite Hill, when deadeye hits them, they lay still." His hobbies included animal and bird watching, berry picking, clam digging, and gambling during their annual escape to the desert each winter in their beloved motorhome.

Paul is survived by his daughter, Linda Lewis Creighton and husband Richard of Alaska; grandchildren Bradley Lewis and wife Tracy of Portland, Ore.; Preston Lewis and wife Jennifer of Eugene, Ore.; Danny Lewis and wife Tracy of Spokane, Wash.; David Creighton and wife Jennifer of Craig, Alaska; Clifford Gellings of Craig, Alaska; and Anne Creighton Blodgett and husband John of Glide, Ore.; 10 great-grandchildren, Misty, Jessica, Michael, Kellen, Cally, Morgan, Mikala, Ada, Neve and Silas; and four great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his twin sister, Pauline Clark, and by his nephews and hunting buddies Billy, Chris and David Owens.

He had one son, Ralph Edward Lewis, who preceded him in death and who is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Merry Beth Pollard Lewis of La Grande, Ore.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2016, Rainey Valley, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

The Chronicle, (Centralia, WA) - November 28, 2016

Hazeldean Eva Alice Riffe, a longtime resident of Rainey Valley, passed away with her daughters at her side Friday, Nov. 25, 2016, at Capital Medical Center, Olympia, Wash. Several days after a successful stomach surgery, she contracted a staph infection, from which she never recovered. She was born Jan. 2, 1928, in Sumas, Wash., to Elonzo and Jennett Rollins.

Hazeldean was the youngest of seven girls. As a teenager, she moved with her family to Glenoma, where she met and married Glenn B. Riffe. They had three children, Tony Alonzo Riffe, Terri Dean Riffe and Jerri Carlene Blankenship.

Her daughter, Terri, lives in Tucson, Ariz, Jerri (David) lives in Glenoma; and son, Tony (Jill), died of cancer in June 1967. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Glenn, Aug. 19, 2014.

With her family, Hazeldean enjoyed all aspects of the outdoors including clam digging, fishing, camping, gardening and watching birds in her yard. She worked for many years in a veneer mill in Randle. Once retired, she and Glenn enjoyed trips to Tucson in the Spring and also traveled with their daughters to New Orleans and Hawaii. Throughout her life, she enjoyed going to sporting events to watch her son, then grandsons, granddaughter, and great-grandsons, compete in basketball, football, track and baseball.

She was an outstanding resource of information about Rainey Valley for friends and family and was known for her remarkable memory.

Hazeldean has three grandchildren, Randi Lydum (Matt) of Monmouth, Ore., Tony Blankenship (Elizabeth) of Soap Lake, Wash., and Todd Blankenship (Jody) of Roseburg, Ore.: and five great-grandchildren, Max Lydum, Gunnar Blankenship , Caden Blankenship , Hazel Rose Lydum, and Tanner Blankenship .

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., at The Church at Glenoma, Saturday, Dec. 3, 2016. Burial will precede the memorial service at 10 a.m., at Rainey Valley Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

David R. Blankenship – b.20Jun1950 - Glenoma, WA: https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2MH5-YTB

Relatives - Anthony R. Blankenship, Jerrle C. Blankenship, Kristi Danielle Reiman, Todd G. Blankenship.

 

+2015, Randle, Lewis Co., WA, Obituary

http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Eleanor-Fosburg&lc=7559&pid=175136374&mid=6492245

In thoughts and prayers on Saturday, June 20, 2015, Eleanor Delane Fosburg 72, died at Morton General Hospital with family and friends at her bedside. Eleanor was born Feb. 17, 1943 in Vandalia, Mo.

Eleanor lived in Randle with her husband John (Jack) Fosburg. She had moved from Missouri to Washington, residing in Randle with her husband and children.

Eleanor was very active in her church and community. She was a member of T.O.P.S. She enjoyed family, crafting, crocheting, knitting, painting, quilting, cooking and working in her flower beds and yard.

Eleanor was preceded in death by her mother, Ruby Wilson and father, Ernest Wilson.

Eleanor leaves behind in her death her husband John (Jack) Fosburg; two brothers Orval (Judith) Wilson and Ernest Eugene (Barbara) Wilson; six children Meredith (Jandy) Blankenship, Freda (Brian) Holt, Timothy (Veronica) Fosburg, Cathy (John) Quinn, Pattie (Mike) Brannon and Doug (Ronda) Fosburg; 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Services will be Saturday June 27, 2015 at 1 p.m. at The Reconciled Christian Fellowship, 130 Morris Rd., Randle.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Jandy Blankenship – b.12Apr1954 -  Morton, WA: https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QJRJ-DH79

Relatives: Meredith L. Blankenship.

 

Lewis Co., SSDI, http://ssdi.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/ssdi.cgi ,

Blankenship, Richard L.    78, 02Apr1933 - 09Apr2011,           Packwood, Lewis, WA,                   WA-534-32-2394

Blankenship, Arnold          86, 26Sep1924 - 26Jan2011,            Mossyrock, Lewis, WA,                  WA-539-12-6209             

Blankenship, Leora            78, 26Nov1931 - 16Sep2010,          Mossyrock, Lewis, WA,                  CA-563-40-9263

Blankenship, Jacqueline Bearl 79, 07Aug1931 - 23Nov2010,   Randle, Lewis, WA,                        WA-531-28-8851

 

Okanogan                                                                                                         

 

2012, Omak, Okanogan Co., WA, Obituary

The Wenatchee World, (WA) - July 31, 2012

Ruby Bell (Wright) Norris, 89, of Omak, died Thursday, July 26, 2012. She had been a longtime resident of Omak and had been a homemaker.

Survivors include her sons, Sidney Norris and Timothy Norris; and her sisters, Pauline Felts and Billie Sue Blankenship.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the New Life Center in Okanogan. Graveside services will follow at Okanogan Valley Memorial Gardens on the Conconully Highway.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2016, Tonasket, Okanogan Co., WA, Death

The Wenatchee World, (WA) - May 24, 2016

Lowell Dean Blankenship, 66 [1950], of Tonasket, died Monday, May 16, 2016.

Arrangements are by Heritage Memorial Chapel, East Wenatchee.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Pacific                                                                                                               

 

2015, Chinook, Pacific Co., WA, Obituary

Chinook Observer (Long Beach, WA) Date: January 6, 2015

Carol Lynn Moore Gibson, 64, a lifelong resident of Chinook, died unexpectedly in Portland, [Multnomah Co., OR] on Dec. 30, 2014, surrounded by the family she loved. A descendant of pioneer Chinook residents, Carol was one of four daughters born to Hoover and Virginia Wisner in Ilwaco on April 22, 1950.

She was a 1968 graduate of Ilwaco High School. Following high school Carol worked for Telephone Utilities in Ilwaco. In 1990 she graduated from the nursing program at Clatsop Community College and received her registered nurse license. Following a brief time at Seaside Hospital, Carol returned to the place of her birth, Ocean Beach Hospital in Ilwaco. There she was employed for the ensuing years as a staff nurse, charge nurse and IV therapy nurse. Carol joined the staff at Harbors Home Health as a hospice nurse before opening her own facility in Chinook several years ago, Family and Friends Adult Foster Care. Carol was baptized and confirmed in the Catholic faith and in past years she was a lay presider at St. Mary's Parish in Seaview. Gardening was Carol's true calling ... period!

She resided in Chinook in a home built in 1890 by her great-grandparents, Martin and Minnie Anderson. Following some renovation, she made it a showcase of her gardening talents, featuring many native plants and flowers and she enjoyed decorating it for Halloween, Christmas and other special events. Carol loved to clam, pick native wild mountain blackberries, was a home canner and collectors of angels. She was the Seattle Seahawks' "13th Woman" — a true blue dedicated fan.

Carol was very close to her family, always enjoying family get-togethers. She loved attending the grandkids' various sport activities and also enjoyed "kidnapping" them for a special time together. Her grandchildren and family called her "Basha," a loving name she embraced to the point of having a personalized license plate.

Carol married Phillip Moore in 1968 and they were parents of two sons, Scott and Craig and a daughter, Lisa. In 2008 she married Ted Gibson who survives residing at the family home in Chinook.

Survivors also include her daughter, Lisa (Dave) McKee; son, Craig (Cindy) Moore; stepdaughter, Annessa Gibson; grandchildren, Anthony and Brittainie Wirkkala, Alexa Wirkkala, Austin Wirkkala, Carson Moore and Cailyn Moore; her mother, Virginia Wisner; siblings, Sharon (Augie) Pedersen, Donna (Dick) Beller and Toni Wisner; nieces and nephews Nels, Matt and Jake Pedersen and Rodney, Ryan and Brianna Beller; great-grandchildren Kayden and Taytum Wirkkala; father-in-law Henry Lee Blankenship; sister-in-laws Karen Arness and Kelly Blankenship; brother-in-laws Mike Gibson and Jeremy Blankenship.

She was preceded in death by her father Hoover Wisner and her son Scott Moore.

A celebration of her life and reception will be Thursday, Jan. 8, at 4 p.m., at the Chinook School Gym. Family graveside service and burial next to son Scott will be Thursday morning at Ilwaco Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Pierce                                                                                                                

 

+2016, Gig Harbor, Pierce Co., WA, Obituary

Published in News Tribune (Tacoma) on June 16, 2016

Betty S. Blankenship Grounds (1927-2016). Heaven welcomed another angel when Betty Grounds, 89, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 2, 2016.

Betty has left behind a great legacy as she has touched so many lives.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband of over 60 years, Billy Grounds, and was reunited with him on his birthday. She was also preceded in death by her daughter Becky Grounds.

Survivors include son, Buddy Grounds; daughter-in-law, Nanette Grounds; granddaughter, Shelley Lovell; grandson, Bryan Grounds; granddaughter-in-law, Christy Grounds and numerous great grandchildren and other family members.

A Graveside Service was held in Betty's long time home town of Gig Harbor, Washington, on Tuesday, June 14th at Haven of Rest Memorial Park also in Gig Harbor.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2011, Home, Pierce Co., WA, Obituary

The News Tribune, (Tacoma, WA) - September 28, 2011

John Steven Biggs John Steven Biggs, of Home, Washington, died at his residence at the age of 71, of cancer. He was a long time resident of the Key Peninsula, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, as well as an attorney, author and teacher. Biggs was born in Vancouver, Washington.

He grew up in Bellevue, Washington, and was a graduate of the 1958 class of Bellevue High School. He received his Juris Doctor from the University of Idaho, in 1971. He was a Lieutenant with the 101st airborne division, and served in the Vietnam war. John's career in law begam as a deputy in the prosecuting attorney's office in Walla Walla, Washington, later moving into private practice, and retiring as the General Counsel of Peninsula School District, Pierce County, Washington. He then focused on teaching at City University and writing. In March, 2011, Biggs was honored to receive the Key Peninsula Citizen of the Year award. His community service included work on the Key Peninsula Fair, with the Longbranch Improvement Club, for which he was past president, and the Key Peninsula Business Association.

Biggs is survived by his wife Vicki Husted Biggs of Home, WA; his brother Patrick Biggs of Spokane; sister Judi Merrifield and husband Roger of Poulsbo, step brother Ron Freeman and step sister Lisa Blankenship; daughter Heidi (Biggs) Brock, husband Charles and grandson Samuel of Arlington, VA; son Todd Biggs, wife Michelle, grandson Scott and granddaughter Mia of Kirkland; son Christopher Biggs, wife Paula and grandson Bryan of Puyallup; son Brett Biggs and wife Vicki of Niceville, FL, step daughter Robin Humphrey and granddaughter Zoey of Gig Harbor; and step son Andy Husted, wife Jessica, and granddaughters Audrey and Olivia of Bremerton as well as beloved cousins, nieces and nephews.

A celebration of John Biggs life will be held on Saturday, October 15th at the Longbranch Improvement Club at 3 pm.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2010, Lakewood, Pierce Co., WA, Obituary

Journal-Times (Grayson-Olive Hill, KY) - March 23, 2010

Gilbert Blankenship, 85, of Lakewood Wa. Formerly of Olive Hill, Ky, passed away on March 15, at his home. Gilbert was born Jan. 16, 1924, in Olive Hill, to the late Henery and Parthina Tackett Blankenship.

He was preceded in death by his wife Bettye Kerr Blankenship, a brother Ernest Blankenship, three sisters Violet Blankenship, Vivian Hickman and Mescal Waddell Morman.

Survivors are one son, Tim Blankenship, from Utah, one daughter Shirley Blankenship, Lakewood, Wa. and one sister and brother-in-law Phyllis and Odis Crank from Olive Hill, Ky, and nieces and nephew who will miss him a lot.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2013, Lakewood, Pierce Co., WA, Obituary

Published in News Tribune (Tacoma) on Nov. 20, 2013

Lida M. Blankenship Loving mother, sister, and friend, passed peacefully on November 15, 2013. She was born in Sumner, WA on March 11, 1929 to Lloyd and Alma Hatch.

Lida was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 18 years, Charles Davis, her husband of 12 years, D. A. Blankenship, brothers Lloyd, Art, Raymond, and Jerry, and sisters Helen and Margaret.

She is survived by her children Karren (Larry) Franckowiak, Sharron (Chet) Chidester, Chuck (Jodi) Davis, Theresa Pernula, and Chris (Steve) Smyres, 10 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren, as well as siblings Betty Torrey, Ken (Arlene) Hatch, Norma Martin, Doreen (Jack) Royse, and Patty Hatch.

Services will be at Mountain View Funeral Home's Garden Chapel Friday, November 22nd, at 1:00 p.m.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2014, Lakewood, Pierce Co., WA, Obituary

Published in News Tribune (Tacoma) on June 1, 2014

Mr. Leonard Blankenship, 81, of Lakewood, WA, passed away peacefully at his residence on Saturday, May 24, 2014. He was born July 26, 1932 to the late Dave and Jennie Blankenship of Gilbert, WV.

His wife Kazuko and his infant daughter Sandra Kay preceded him in death.

Surviving family include his children Joe, Dave, Jennie, Ben, Dale, Mike, and Charlie, 15 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren. Also surviving is his brother Hicks Blankenship, along with several nieces and nephews that reside in West Virginia. After retiring from the military, he resided in Lakewood for over 40 years.

Memorial services will be held at Mountain View Funeral Home, 4100 Steilacoom Blvd SW, Lakewood, WA 98499, on Tuesday, June 3, 2014, at 11:00 a.m.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2016, Milton, Pierce Co., WA, Obituary

The Seattle Times, (WA) - June 13, 2016

Janice Olson Tatarek 1936 ~ 2016

Janice Olson Tatarek passed away May 25, 2016 after a three month illness. Janice was born in Two Harbors, Minnesota.

She lived in Two Harbor until she was seven. At that time her parents headed to Seattle in search of employment. The family settled in the South Park area. Janice graduated in 1954 from Cleveland High School. At age nineteen she completed Doctor's Office Assistant Training and worked briefly for a physician in Seattle. She went to work for the Boeing Company when she entered her twenties. While working in the print shop she met her future husband George Tatarek. George and Janice were married on August 2, 1958. Together they raised their four children in the Burien/Seahurst area. Janice was a stay at home Mom for fifteen years before returning to work at Printing Control Services where she worked until she retired. Once retired, George and Janice moved to Ocean Shores where they lived together until George passed in 2010. At that time they had been married fifty-two years.

In 2013, Janice moved to Milton, WA to be near her daughters. She enjoyed a very active lifestyle at Mill Ridge Village where she had a lovely apartment. Super social, Janice didn't miss an activity or a lunch date out. She walked to Starbucks daily, where she enjoyed a triple-shot venti non-fat latte. Janice made many new friends at Mill Ridge, and continued to miss them until the day she passed away.

Janice moved into an adult family home for her last month. She was on hospice care, and was very fortunate to have great round-the-clock caregivers. The family would like to thank Rosie, Babe, Lulu and Kilcha for their kindness and compassion.

Janice is survived by her brother Marvin Olson (Maridie), her children, Joleen (Ray) Wieser, Lynda (Dan) Blankinship, Andrea (Bruce) Goetsch, and Michael Tatarek. Grandchildren, David (Tami) Wieser, Jeff (Michelle) Wieser, Bryan (Kristen) Wieser, Brandt Blankinship, Riley Blankinship, Lauren Goetsch, and great grand-sons Sawyer and Cohen Wieser.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2011, Orting, Pierce Co., WA, Obituary

The News Tribune, (Tacoma, WA) - June 2, 2011

MSgt Verlin Blankenship U.S.A.F. Ret. 11/3/1931 - 5/26/2011 Verlin is finally at peace, no longer suffering. He was born in Mize, [Morgan Co.] KY, and passed at the Orting Soldier's Home. Verlin served his country as a Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force. After retiring from the Air Force, Verlin worked for 10 years for the FAA.

Verlin is survived by his loving wife Joanne, daughter Dianna (Terry) Lee, his stepchildren, sisters Brenda (Charles) Phipps and Thelma Strassor, and many extended family and friends.

Graveside services will be held June 8, 2011 at 1:15pm at Tahoma National Cemetery, Kent, WA.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2010, Puyallup, Pierce Co., WA, Obituary

http://obitsforlife.com/obituary/86055/Fraser-Donald.php

Donald J. Fraser January 27th, 1924 - May 13th, 2010. Donald left his family with a legacy that will not soon be forgotten. He lived as a hard working man of integrity that adored his wife, Betty. He lived as a loving father, grandfather and great grandfather. He served his country in the Army during World War II, and faithfully worked for Burlington Northern railroad for 38 years. After retirement he enjoyed gardening, travelling with Betty, spending time with his family and helping others. We will miss so many things about this great man, but most of all the way he adored those he loved, his sense of humor and his smiling eyes. If you had the privilege of being the object of his affection you knew the warmth and depth of his love. On May 13, 2010 he left his family peacefully.

He is survived by his bride of 64 years, Betty, his son Gary and wife Pat, four granddaughters: Jenn and Gary Blankenship, Amy and Pete Westberg, Katie Fraser, and Colleen and Hayden LeRoy, and 9 great grandchildren, two brothers Wallace, and Art and wife Lois.

Services will be held at Puyallup South (Fruitland Ward of LDS Church) at 13420 94th Ave E, Puyallup on May 22, 2010 at 11:00 AM.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2015, Puyallup, Pierce Co., WA, Obituary

Published in News Tribune (Tacoma) on May 13, 2015

Florene Sepic, age 96, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, May 9th, 2015. She was born in Winona, Minnesota on December 18, 1918 to Ora May and Adam Baughman.

She was pre-deceased by her husband of 64 years, Fred and her sister Grace, half-sister Olive Joy Smith and half-brothers Marvin, Roy, Cecil and Clifford Beebe.

Florene and Fred had 3 children; F. Thom (Wendy) Sepic, Linda K. (Bill) Fischer and Jeri J. (Glen) Blankenship. She is survived by grandchildren; Gayla Barton, Chris Bowlin, Jason Bowlin, Justine Ziemer and Jeff Blankenship, step grandchildren; Kelly Fejeran and JulieAnn Detweiler, 8 great-grandchildren; Nick Barton, Hadley and Greyson Bowlin, Anna Bowlin, Madisen and Ryan Ziemer, Natalia and Jorja Blankenship and great, great granddaughter Taryn Barton.

There will be a graveside service on Friday, May 15, 2015 at 3:30pm at Mt View.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2011, Tacoma, Pierce Co., WA, Obituary

The News Tribune, (Tacoma, WA) - November 27, 2011

Marvel A. Sprouse , born Nov. 4, 1924 in Donnybrook, ND, passed away November 21, 2011 in Tacoma.

She is survived by children, Kenneth (Magda) Holler, Kayleen (Dwayne) Marlow, Karen (Donald) Furgeson, Kalvin (Cindy) Holler, and Kristie (Clint) Walker, stepdaughter Toni (John) Blankenship, 17 grandchildren and 38 great-grandchildren.

Memorial service will be held in the Mountain View Aspen Chapel at 12pm on Dec. 2, 2011, with reception to follow.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2012, Tacoma, Pierce Co., WA, Obituary

The News Tribune, (Tacoma, WA) - May 16, 2012

David George Lane Sr. Born June 26, 1937; died May 9, 2012 from complications of dementia.

Preceded by son David G. Lane Jr. and daughter Georgeanne I. Lane.

Survived by best friend and partner Debbie Mattson, brother James Lane, sister Catherine, daughters Patricia Lane and Jenny Blankenship, son Jeff Lane, and lots of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A celebration of his life will be held at 4901 N. Bristol, Tacoma at 3pm Sunday, May 20th, 2012 at 3pm.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2012, Tacoma, Pierce Co., WA, Obituary

The News Tribune, (Tacoma, WA) - May 30, 2012

Renowned golf course architect John F. Harbottle III went to be with our Lord on May 24, 2012. He died suddenly while on a business trip in the Los Angeles area. He was 53. John was born on August 14, 1958 in Seattle, WA.

Raised in Lakewood, John graduated from Bellarmine Preparatory School before attending Seattle University, where he played on the golf team. After two years he transferred to the University of Washington, graduating in 1984 with a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture. It was at UW that John met the love of his life, Teresa Martin. They were married in 1988. John worked under legendary architect Pete Dye and with Desmond Muirhead throughout Asia, Brazil and the USA before starting his own firm, John Harbottle Design, in 1991. John's early travels in Scotland heavily influenced his award-winning design philosophy, which featured unique links style courses with a minimalist approach to earth moving. He went on to design almost 20 new courses and renovate over 50 courses in the USA, Canada and Japan. His work received accolades for environmental sensitivity and design excellence by the Audubon Society and Golf Digest, making him one of the top rated golf course architects in the country, as well as a member and past director on the board of the American Society of Golf Course Architects. His service on the boards of the Tacoma Country and Golf Club and The First Tee of South Puget Sound reflected his lifelong passion for the game of golf. In addition to his professional accomplishments, John was well respected as a gentleman of integrity, fairness and kindness. His heart of gold and unfailing positive outlook were hallmarks of his charming personality.

He was a devoted husband and father who showered his family with love and unsolicited favors. Extremely proud of his children and all their achievements, he supported them in every possible way. His natural playfulness and love of sports made him a favorite coach and beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews. He will be deeply missed by those who were fortunate to be counted among his friends and relatives.

He is survived by his wife Teresa and children Johnny and Chelsea; his parents Pat and Dr. John Harbottle of Lakewood, WA; sisters Mary (Ben) Blankenship of McCleary, WA and Sue (George) Barrington of Pullman, WA; brothers Jerry (Victoria) of Sammamish, WA and Robert (Karianne) of Gardnerville, NV, five nephews and six nieces.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11am Saturday, June 2, 2012 at St. Charles Borromeo with a reception following at Tacoma Country and Golf Club.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2013, Tacoma, Pierce Co., WA, Obituary

Published in News Tribune (Tacoma) on August 21, 2013

Julia Jeanne Murphy; Age 92, died on Sunday in Tacoma following a brief illness. She was born in Tacoma at St. Joseph's Hospital on Feb. 23, 1921, and died on August 18, 2013 in Tacoma. She lived her early years in Tacoma before moving to Lakewood in 1954.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John Sr. and Jessica Harbottle, sisters Margaret Murphy and Rosemary Harbottle, first husband Chuck Johnston, second husband Patrick Murphy, and nephew John Harbottle III.

She is survived by her daughter, Maggie Holman and her husband Michael of Steilacoom, grandsons Isaiah (Samantha) and Jerome Holman, and three great-grandchildren, brother John Harbottle Jr. (Pat) of Lakewood, stepdaughter Lynn Gregory (Ron) of Minnesota, stepson Jim Murphy of Tacoma, nieces Mary Ellen Murphy, Mary Blankenship (Ben) and Sue Barrington (George), nephews Jerry Harbottle (Vicki) and Robert Harbottle (Karianne), eight grandnieces, and seven grandnephews.

She was a graduate of Holy Rosary School, McCarver Jr. High, and Lincoln High School in 1940. While at Lincoln she was on the staff of the school newspaper. During World War II Jeanne worked as a riveter on construction of B-19s. From 1960 until 1985 she was employed by the US Postal Service, eventually rising to the level of assistant postmaster. She was a devoted Seahawk fan and golfer, and was a member of Oakbrook Golf and Country Club. As a member of Oakbrook's "Not Quite Ready for Prime Time Players," she wrote and acted in several plays. She was a Catholic, and for several years she taught CCD religious education classes and was a reader for St. Francis Cabrini Church. In 2001 she suffered a severe stroke, and spent the last twelve years of her life in Orchard Park Nursing Home, where she was very appreciative of the loving care she received from the staff.

A Funeral Mass will be offered Friday, August 23, 2013 at 11am at St. John Bosco Church, 10508 112th St. SW, Lakewood, WA.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2015, Tacoma, Pierce Co., WA, Obituary

Published in News Tribune (Tacoma) on Apr. 10, 2015

Rita Engel went home to be with the Lord on Monday, April 6, 2015. Rita Marie Stearns was born on Nov. 2, 1929 to Cecil and Inez (Rouse) Stearns in Tacoma.

Rita married Verl Engel on Nov. 21, 1947 in Tacoma. To this union were 4 daughters, Sharon Blankenship of Tacoma, Carolyn (Kerry) Traver of Marengo, IA, Annette and Suzanne Engel of Tacoma, one son Steven (Louann) Engel of Graham. Also surviving are 5 grandchildren, Cory Traver and Kim (Traver) Kopet of Iowa and Stacy (Traver) Jordan of Texas, Verl Engel of Graham, and Daryl Engel of Colorado, two brothers, Ronald Stearns of Olympia and Larry Stearns of Tacoma, and one step-sister, Shirley (Danny) Birgen of Tacoma and many nieces and nephews.

Rita was preceded in death by her husband, one sister Audrey Hilde, 3 brothers, Alan Rouse, Robert Stearns and Alden Stearns.

A memorial service is planned for Saturday, April 11, 2015 at 1:00 pm at the Evergreen Community Church of God 8511 Canyon Rd, Tacoma

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Pierce Co., SSDI, http://ssdi.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/ssdi.cgi ,

Blankenship, Gilbert E.     86, 16Jan1924 - 15Mar2010,           Lakewood, Pierce, WA,                   KY-404-20-3773

Blankenship, Mary A.       63, 17Oct1946 - 21Jun2010,            Mckenna, Pierce, WA,                    VA-227-68-1696

Blankenship, Verlin           79, 03Nov1931 - 26May2011,         Tacoma, Pierce, WA,                      KY-402-42-6549

 

Skagit                                                                                                                

 

2014, Anacortes, Skagit Co., WA, Obituary

Published in Skagit Valley Herald Publishing Company from Jan. 10 to Jan. 11, 2015

Carol Deane Brazas Crawford left us on December 30th, 2014. She died of natural causes at Rosario Assisted Living surrounded by her family. Carol was born on May 12, 1918, the daughter of Dwight and Bernice Deane and she lived most of her life in Anacortes.

Carol graduated from Anacortes High School in 1935 and began work at Peoples National Bank. She married Alphonse Brazas in November 1938. Three children, Joan, Deane and Jane, were born before Fonse's untimely death in 1948.

In 1962, Carol married Richard Strand and they lived in Edmonds, Washington for a number of years. During this time, they traveled in the West, Canada and on the East Coast. When Dick retired from Peoples National Bank in Seattle, they moved to Anacortes, residing at Lake Erie, until Dick died in 1985.

In 1989, Carol married Captain Laurence Crawford, retired from Washington State Ferries, and they lived in Anacortes and Lake Stevens until his death in 2011.

Although she had been primarily a stay-at-home mother, Carol's work experience was always with a bank -- Peoples National Bank or Seattle Trust and Savings. She was an avid reader and a gifted cook; she knit many beautiful garments and she enjoyed her travels. She thrived on the years she and Larry cruised Puget Sound and the waters of Canada and Alaska.

Carol was a lifelong baseball fan and she watched Mariners' games - occasionally at the ballpark - as often as she could. Edgar Martinez was her favorite player. She believed in exercise for herself and was in a water aerobics class at the Fidalgo Pool until her late '80s. She was a longtime member of a Tuesday evening bridge club and she held memberships in Madrona Chapter of the Eastern Star, the Bessie Cook March Guild of Children's Hospital, the Seattle Milk Fund, and Fidalgo Yacht Club. Carol was a loving and attentive mother and grandmother who always had time for her family. She had a wide intelligence and a great sense of humor.

Carol was predeceased by her parents, her brother, Dr. Darrell Deane, and her granddaughter, Amanda Brazas.

She is survived by her daughter Joan Bregger and husband Jack, son Deane Brazas and wife Carolyn, and daughter Jane Molenkamp and husband Delmar; her grandchildren Jennifer Brazas, Carrie Blankenship and husband Brett, and Ryan Molenkamp; her great-grandchildren McRae, Wyatt, and Katie Blankenship and a number of nieces, nephews, cousins and good friends. Carol was a special, gracious lady and her family will miss her tremendously.

Services will be held at Evans Funeral Chapel, Anacortes, on January 12, 2015 at 11:00 a.m., with interment at Grandview Cemetery. A reception will follow interment.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2015, Anacortes, Skagit Co., WA, Obituary

Published in Skagit Valley Herald Publishing Company on Dec. 15, 2015

Karen Lee Barber, 66, of Anacortes passed away on December 7, 2015 at Skagit Valley Hospital in Mount Vernon. She was born on October 15, 1949 in Ballard, WA the daughter of Clyde and Betty (Dodd) Erickson.

Karen is survived by her spouse Noel "Sandy" Barber; a son Donald Norman; daughters Kary Barber, Chrissy Osborne, and Jennifer Barber; grandchildren Austin Barber, Natalie Howard, Alison Blankenship, Steven Thompson, Adam Blankenship, and Kyler Osborne; a great grandson Owen Osborne; brothers Wayne Erickson and Mickey Whitledge; sisters Rooney Annisten and Laurie Balser, and several nieces and nephews.

Her family invites you to her Celebration of Life and Memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, December 19, 2015 at Anacortes Elks Lodge 1009 - 7th Street. A potluck dinner is to follow.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2011, Sedro-Woolley, Skagit Co., WA, Obituary

The Sylva Herald & Ruralite, (NC) - October 6, 2011

Alvin Sutton, 87, of Sedro-Woolley, Wash., died Sunday, Sept. 4, 2011, at Burton Care Center, Burlington, Wash. Graveside services with military honors were held at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 9, at Sedro-Woolley Union Cemetery.

Born March 15, 1924, in Dillsboro, he was a son of the late Homer and Dora Stillwell Sutton. A U.S. Navy veteran of World War II, he moved to Sedro-Woolley in 1947. He worked for Lyman Timber Co., Skagit Steel, Northern State Hospital and Willis, Rogers & Pearson lumber mill until his retirement. An avid gun collector, he also enjoyed collecting classic cars.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Helen Irene Sitton Sutton, who died in 2004; stepmother, Bessie Sutton; one son, Keith Sutton; one brother, Kenneth Sutton; and one sister, Virginia Sutton.

Surviving are one daughter, Lois Blankenship of Montana; two sons, Jerry Sutton of Burlington, Wash., and Randy Sutton of Sedro-Woolley; two brothers, Ron Sutton of Sylva and Lester Sutton of Young Harris, Ga.; two sisters, Eddis Graston of Waynesville and Willajo Cheek of Winston-Salem; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Snohomish                                                                                                        

 

2011, Everett, Snohomish Co., WA, Obituary

The Daily Herald, (Everett, WA) - December 4, 2011

Timothy "Tim" B. Collins, Feb 16, 1943-Nov 29, 2011. Tim was born in Walla Walla, WA and was adopted by Dan and Harriet Collins. He was raised in Spokane, WA and later moved to Whidbey Island. After graduation Tim held many jobs on the Island and eventually went to work for Boeing where he retired in 1999 after over thirty years of service. Tim loved the outdoors and was an avid fisherman and hunter. Some of his most treasured memories were of hunting trips with his great friends, Bob Mebust, Brian Rice and others. We later grew to appreciate the Wine Country and had many exciting trips to Eastern Washington, California and Oregon with friends and family. "Life is to short to drink bad wine".

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mom and Pops; his first wife and mother of his children, Janet; his sons, Dann, David and Patrick; and his daughter, Carol. Tim leaves behind his wife of 18 years, Linda; daughter, Kathy; step-children, Galyn (Darla) Rusher and Stacey (Jesse) Hall; and five grandchildren, Janelle, Sierra, Nasen, Lowen and Madalyn; a sister, Judy Blankenship; a brother, Jerry (Beth) Earl; also our extended family of many wonderful friends, the family your heart chooses. A Celebration of life is to be scheduled for a later date.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2012, Everett, Snohomish Co., WA, Obituary

The Daily Herald, (Everett, WA) - December 16, 2012

Laverne Marie Tucker was born on September 24, 1946 in San Francisco, CA and passed away peacefully with her family by her side on December 11, 2012 in Everett, WA.

Laverne was an endearing friend to everyone she met. Many will remember her as the fashionable hair stylist with her famous "Batman" hair-do pictured in the local paper in the 1960's. She owned Hair Safari in Marysville where she continued to do hair until her retirement.

Laverne is survived by her sisters, Darlene West and Joy Hunt; sons, Brady (Angie) Blankenship, Brett (Carrie) Blankenship; grandchildren, Luke, McRae, Wyatt, Lily and Katie; and several nieces, nephews and friends.

A celebration of her life will be held at the Lake Stevens Fire Conference Center from 2-4 p.m. on Saturday, January 5, 2012.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2015, Everett, Snohomish Co., WA, Obituary

The Daily Herald, (Everett, WA) Date: June 7, 2015

Forrest "Forry" W. Brown Sr., 88, passed away May 26, 2015 of complications of an aneurysm. He was born to Murph and Nora Brown on March 19, 1927 in Vidette, Arkansas. He married Helen Jacobson August 8, 1947 in Snohomish, Wash.

Forry loved playing ball. He put in a basketball court that we all, even the neighborhood enjoyed. His mom said he always had a ball in his hand. He also liked hunting, fishing and Nascar. Every Sunday he would be on the phone with his son, Doug and brother, Lee, debating over who was the better driver. Jeff Gordon was his favorite. He looked forward to his weekly dinners and cribbage games with his son, Forrest, and granddaughter, Mandy. He loved gardening, especially his tomatoes and dahlias. He retired from Scott Paper (K.C.) after 47 years.

Forry was preceded in death by his parents; two grandsons, Jason and Shane; and his great grandson, Drew.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Helen Jean; three children, Doug (Jeri) Brown, Forrest L. Brown, and Sandy (Greg) Wright; grandchildren, Angie Blankenship and family, Melissa Budig and family, Jeremy Brown and family, Russell Brown and family, Mandy Brown, Stephanie Miller and family, and Nicole Nilson and family; also his two brothers, Joe (Betty) Brown and Lee (Linda) Brown.

There will be a private graveside burial at a later date.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2016, Everett, Snohomish Co., WA, Obituary

The Daily Herald, (Everett, WA) - February 7, 2016

Helen Jean Brown, 83, passed away peacefully in her sleep February 1, 2016. She was born to Anton and Agnes Jacobson.

She married the love of her life, Forrest W. Brown. They were two peas in a pod. She loved her family and second family at Ebenézer Lutheran Church. Helen was very loving, thoughtful and giving. She loved having family gatherings with lots of food and fun. Always a pie or plate of food was sent home with all. She spent many hours doing family tree information, crocheting, (especially afghans), knitting, gardening, family camping trips, going to their vacation place in Republic (curlew kai), baking and cooking. She and her siblings would get together having so much fun telling stories and laughing making all kinds of food and candy, (peanut brittle, fudge, divinity, filled cookies with the special recipe of her mom, who sold them during the depression). Lots of wonderful memories with family and friends.

Helen is preceded in death by her parents; husband; one son, Forrest L. Brown; five sisters: Selma (Tootsie) Worlund, Amanda Jacobson, Hazel Weise, Alvina (Babe) Payne, Kathryn Henderson; one brother, Andrew (Andy) Jacobson; two grandsons, Jason Brown and Shane Swecker; and one great-grandson, Drew Brown.

She is survived by two children, Doug (Jeri) Brown and Sandra (Greg) Wright; grandchildren: Angie (Brady) Blankenship, Melissa Brown, Jeremy (Lyla) Brown, Russell (Amy) Brown, Mandy Brown, Stephanie Miller, Nicole Nilson; sister-in-law, Shirley Jacobson; two brothers-in-law, Lee (Linda) Brown and Joe (Betty) Brown; many great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

At Helen and her husband, Forrest's request, there will be a private graveside service in the Spring for both.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2016, Everett, Snohomish Co., WA, Obituary

The Daily Herald, (Everett, WA) - January 4, 2017

Ruth Irene Wigren, 67 [1949], passed away peacefully at her home in Everett, WA, surrounded by her loved ones on Christmas Morning. She was born and raised in Renton, WA, but lived the majority of her life in Everett.

Ruthie raised her children and grandchildren in our family home in Eastmont. In 2006 she retired after 28 years with the Boeing Company as an electrician. Ruthie loved her family and friends and spent a great deal of her life with them. Ruthie enjoyed driving her cars, going to plays at The Village Theater, and spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

 Ruthie joins her parents, Melvin John Blankenship and Isabelle Janette Blankenship and son, John (Johnboy) William Paxton in heaven.

Ruthie is survived by her husband, children, grand-children, and great grandchildren.

Memorial service will be held this Saturday January 7, 2017, at 2 p.m. at Evergreen Funeral Home and Cemetery located in Everett, WA.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Isabelle Jeanette Blankenship - 13 Oct 1920, 25 Oct 1995 - Mount Olivet Cemetery, Renton, King Co., WA.

https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QVP9-2PD9

 

2015, Gold Bar, Snohomish Co., WA, Obituary

Published in The Herald (Everett) on Nov. 9, 2015

Virgil Henry Looney, age 73, of Gold Bar, Wash. passed away at home during the early morning of October 4, 2015. Virgil was born on February 4, 1942, in Paynesville, West Virginia and grew up in Haysi, Virginia. Virgil is the son of Elder Henry and Bonnie Fuller Looney.

He is preceded in death by his mother, father, and sisters, Alice Deel, Dollie Byus, and Katy Deel Yates.

He leaves behind his wife of 37 years, Karen; his son, Joseph, of Gold Bar, his daughter, Christina and son-in-law, Robert Kehoe, of Lake Stevens, Wash. and his sons from a previous marriage, Pete and Mike. He leaves behind sisters, Pearl Deel of Grundy, Va., Lydia Delphia Deel of Vansant, Va., Effie Blankenship of Haysi, Va., and Gay Conaway and James of Haysi, Va.; and many nephews and nieces. He also leaves behind countless others whose lives were touched by his friendship.

He always ended conversations with "stop by (or call) if you need anything," and he meant it. Whether it was to build something, borrow a tool, work on a gun, or even just to chat, he was the guy. Virgil was proud of his military service. After a short time working the coal mines with his father, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served two tours in the Vietnam War, earning a number of awards for his outstanding service. In addition to Vietnam, he spent considerable time in Germany, Tacoma, Alaska, Korea, and Colorado. After 20 years, Virgil retired and returned to Virginia for a while and worked on a farm and later worked as a carpenter. In 1985 Virgil and Karen moved back to Tacoma, Wash. and Virgil took a Cabinet making course at Bates Vocational School. Over the years he built numerous, beautiful, highly functional pieces of furniture for family and friends. He filled his house with his home-built furniture and built many cherished pieces of furniture for his children to fill their homes with as well. He was always happy to build whatever his children or wife could dream and draw the plans for. After his move to Gold Bar, Virgil put his carpentry and handyman skills to use at Regency Care Center in Monroe, Wash. and later at Warm Beach Senior Community. He was proud of the woodworking projects he completed that are still on display at Warm Beach. Virgil loved to spend time in the woods hunting and fishing or just communing with nature. Springs and summers were filled with camping and fishing trips and the fall and winter would bring more camping and hunting. He spent many hours at the Index Sportsman Club and later at the Stanwood Twin Cities Sportsman club shooting trap. He particularly like to help young folks just learning to shoot, and was proud to also teach his own children to shoot as well. Virgil had an exquisite memory for songs. As a youngster, he would go out behind the barn and sing the songs he remembered. He was too bashful to sing even to his mother. Later, as he was reminded of a song or story, he could remember it and sing it. Growing up in Appalachia, he had a natural love for bluegrass music and was able to experience the music of the Stanley Brothers first hand at the Old Greenbrier School as a youngster. A few years ago, while in Virginia attending a play about Dr. Ralph Stanley, he had the opportunity to share that with Ralph, himself. This was a highlight of Virgil's life.

A celebration of life and potluck for Virgil will be held on November 21, 2015, at 12:00 noon at the Stanwood Twin Cities Sportsman Club, 26933 64th Ave N, Stanwood, WA 98292.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2013, Marysville, Snohomish Co., WA, Obituary

Published in The Herald (Everett) on Nov. 27, 2013

Donna Johnson of Marysville, WA went to be with the Lord on November 22, 2013.

She leaves her husband, Morris; son, Russ of Arlington, WA; daughters, Robin Galanger of Everett and Lisa Blankenship of Arizona; six grandkids; and four great grandkids.

To find out about the memorial, call the family.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Spokane                                                                                                            

 

2011, Spokane, Spokane Co., WA, Obituary

The Spokesman-Review, (Spokane, WA) - November 27, 2011

Blankenship, Neva Camille (Age 93) Was born on September 3, 1918 to Martin and Bertha Klopher in Spokane, WA, and passed away on November 24, 2011 in Spokane, WA. Neva graduated from Lewis and Clark High School in 1936. She was a member of Rebekah Lodge.

Neva is survived by her sons, Thomas (Linda) Rice, Roderic (Cindy) Rice; daughter, Paula (Bill) Guttromson; seven grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband William T. Blankenship; sister, Maxine Wendel; grandson, Shawn; and granddaughters, Rhonda and Tonya.

A Graveside Service will be held at 1:00pm on Thursday, December 1, 2011 at Riverside Memorial Park, 508 N. Government Way. A Memorial Service will follow at 2:00pm at Country Homes Christian Church, 8415 N. Wall, Spokane, WA.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2012, Spokane, Spokane Co., WA, Obituary

Published in Spokesman-Review from September 7 to September 8, 2012

Eugene Fred Hill, age 96, and a World War II veteran of Spokane, peacefully passed away in Yakima, [Yakima Co.] WA on September 1, 2012. Mr. Hill, the son of Fred and Maude Hill, was born in Colorado and moved to Spokane at a very young age.

He graduated from Lewis and Clark High School in 1933 and served in the U.S. Army in 1945 and 1946, attaining the rank of Corporal. Eugene willingly responded to his call for service in the army, even though he was employed in an exempt industry, the railroad. He was employed by the Northern Pacific Railroad as a carman and as an additional duty, became the cook for the railroad wrecker crews. He was well known by the crews, family and friends as a "cook extraordinaire". Eugene married Marie Wilks after high school and the union produced two sons, Jerry and Bob. The marriage ended in divorce in 1957.

Mr. Hill was a Life Member of the Spokane Eagles Aerie #2, having served as its President in 1953 - 1954. He had over 70 years service with the organization which was at one time the largest Eagles lodge in the world. In 1964, Mr. Hill married Grace Tierney in Asotin, WA and enjoyed many years of happy marriage until her death in 1989.

Eugene retired from the railroad in 1973 and pursued many hobbies, including hunting (got his elk 8 years in a row from the same stump), fishing, rock hounding, jewelry making. He especially enjoyed traveling with his wife Grace and snow birding in Kingman, AZ from 1973 to 2004.

Mr. Hill was preceded in death by his parents Fred and Maude Hill, wife Marie, wife Grace, sons Jerry Hill and Bob Hill, brothers Melvin Everett, Orval Frances and Roy Marion, sisters Pauline (Hill) Barnhart, Phyllis (Hill) Bolender, grandson Brian Peterson, and great-grandson Seth Blankenship.

He is survived by his step-son John H. Tierney (wife Fran), step-daughter Barbara Lundquist (husband Lynn), sisters Marion (Bob) Towne and Marie McDevitt, and grandchildren Mark Hill, Jeff Hill, Jim Hill, Angi Deerey, Terese Markee, Vicki Nestor, Randy Loveland, Kurt Loveland, John C. Tierney, Carolee Hall, Barbi Root, Bob Lundquist, Brenda Blankenship, Brad Peterson and numerous great-grandchildren.

Services will be held Monday, September 10, 2012 at 10 AM, at Hazen and Jaeger Funeral Home, 1306 N. Monroe, Spokane, WA.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2014, Spokane, Spokane Co., WA, Obituary

The Spokesman-Review, (Spokane, WA) Date: June 8, 2014

Services for James Odell Kennedy, 71, of Spokane, will be 1:30 p.m. Friday, June 13, 2014, at Washington State Veterans Cemetery (Medical Lake).

Jim went to rest on Friday, May 9, 2014, in Spokane, Washington. James "Jim" Kennedy was born December 18, 1942, in Walla Walla, Washington, to Eddy and Roma (Moore) Kennedy.

He served 24 years in the Army. Jim was dedicated to remembering those around him by donating to the Veteran's Home, Veterans Homeless Center, Meals on Wheels, Toys/Coats for Tots, Second Harvest and Spokanimal. He was an avid supporter of the Spokane Chiefs. A special thanks to the Deaconess Staff and Hospice of Spokane.

Jim is survived by his wife of fifty years, Brenda Kennedy; two daughters, Deanna (Rusty) Matney, Spokane, WA and Amy (Stephen) Blankenship , Billings MT; one sister, Bettie Groetsema of Walla Walla, WA; two brothers, Delbert Kennedy of Walla Walla, WA and Ed Kennedy of Sammamish, WA; and five grandchildren, Kyle Blankenship , Brittany Crutchfield, Jonathan Crutchfield, Brandon Matney and Nicole Matney.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2014, Spokane, Spokane Co., WA, Obituary

Published in Spokesman-Review on Oct. 26, 2014

Chris Eric Blankenship (Age 50) Chris was born in Ukiah, [Mendocino Co.,] California on December 19, 1963 and passed away peacefully with his family by his side on October 15, 2014 at Spokane Valley Hospital after a short bout with cancer.

Chris grew up in Spokane Valley and graduated from West Valley High School in 1982. He was a hard worker and enjoyed working with wood and working in his yard. Chris was very outgoing and good-hearted. He always put a smile on your face.

Chris was preceded in death by his mother Judy [Mellom] Gillespie, uncles and grandparents.

He is survived by his father Dennis (Cle) Blankenship; sisters and families, Jody Blankenship (son Cameron), Mia Robbins (husband Chris and daughter Riley) and Jamie Laughlin. He is also survived by various aunts, uncles and cousins. He will be missed by all.

Cremation took place at Neptune Society of Spokane. No service will be held at Chris' request.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

CA, Birth Index, http://www.vitalsearch-ca.com/

Blankenship, Chris E. - M, b.1963/12/19 – Mellom - Mendocino

Blankenship, Jody G. - F, b.1965/07/10 – Mellom - Mendocino

 

2016, Spokane, Spokane Co., WA, Obituary

http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Helen-Ulihrach&lc=2254&pid=177247698&mid=6753374

Helen Dale Ulihrach - November 8, 1932 - January 11, 2016

Passed away January 11, 2016 in Spokane, WA. She was born in Moorhead, MN to Martin and Inga Peterson. She was the youngest of seven children.

Helen worked as an orthopedic nurse at Sacred Heart Medical Center. She had attended Christian Life Church, and loved to sing.

Helen was preceded in death by husband Dale Ulihrach; and sons Robert and Eric Johnson.

She is survived by one remaining sister, Donna Peek; children Debbie Crane, Roger Gebeke, Laura (Glenn) Landaker, Dennis Gebeke, Kevin Gebeke, Valerie Davidson, Tina Blankenship, and Lisa Crane; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; and four great-great grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 15, 2016, 2:00 PM, at Hazen & Jaeger Funeral Home, 1306 N Monroe, Spokane, WA. Inurnment will follow at a later date at Spokane Memorial Gardens.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2015, Spokane Valley, Spokane Co., WA, Obituary

Published in Spokesman-Review on Jan. 14, 2015

Debro Blankenship, (Age 72); Our beloved Debro was born on January 21, 1943, in Houston, TX. He died peacefully on January 8, 2015, after a long illness.

He graduated from High School in Center, TX. Debro served in the U.S. Navy from 1961-1981 as a submariner and member of the SubVets. Debro and wife Sonja had moved from Houston, TX in 1991 to Spokane Valley, WA, and have been residents for 23 years. In 2002, we began, "Wheels 'R' Turning Mobility, Inc." a paratransit transportation company. Debro's favorite hobby was wood-working, building wonderful furniture for our home and friends, he was so knowledgeable, well read in politics and international global news.

Debro is survived by his wife of 33 years, Sonja Blankenship (Spokane Valley, WA); daughters: Debora Sonja Parrish (MS), Sherry Tingen (VA); son's, Tim Newton (TX), Antoine Blankenship (ID), Artemus Blankenship (CA); sister, Patricia Ann Black (TX); friend, Evelyn Jones (TX); nieces from TX: Anita Reed, Andrea Edwards, Lisa Black, Nicole Carrol, Torrey Holman; nephew, Brian Jones (TX); grandchildren: Antoine Clements, Brandon Tingen, Aaron Tingen (VA); great-grandchildren: Ayana Clements, Ayalynn Clements, Christopher Tingen (VA).

Funeral Held at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 495 N. Lincoln, Post Falls, ID, on Friday January 16, 2015, at 9:00AM (ladies, please wear appropriate skirt or dress and veil). Final Resting Place: St Joseph's Catholic Cemetery, 17825 E. Trent Ave, Spokane Valley, (509) 891-6420.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2016, Spokane Valley, Spokane Co., WA, Obituary

http://www.tributes.com/obituary/show/Brent-Eugene-Blankenship-103199754

Brent Eugene Blankenship, September 27, 1952 - January 14, 2016, Spokane Valley, Washington

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

CA, Birth Index, http://www.vitalsearch-ca.com/

Blankenship, Brent Eugene, M, b.1952/09/27 – Anglin - Los Angeles

 

Stevens                                                                                                              

 

+2015, Chewelah, Stevens Co., WA, Obituary

Published in The Statesman Examiner on Aug. 7, 2015

Edwin Blankinship passed away Sunday July 12, 2015 at St. Joseph's Hospital in Chewelah. He was known as Ed, or by his family as "Wynn". He was 72-years-old and had lived in Chewelah since 1980. Born  Sept. 27, 1942 in Tacoma, his father was Edwin Monroe Blankinship; mother, Ruth Evelyn Glew Blankinship; sister: Christine Valentini, Boulder, Colorado.

He married his "lovely bride" Rebecca Rae Rucker, at Cusick on Sept. 9, 1995. Rebecca at the time was a widow and had gone to Spokane to the dog pound to get a puppy in June 1995. She had picked out a puppy and paid for it and was waiting for the paperwork to finish, when a man walked into the room and asked if "she was going to get that dog." She said yes, and he responded, "I wanted that dog." He had been there the day before and wanted him. Well, Rebecca got the dog, but her mom said, "Ed only married her to get that dog." Buster was a Brittany spaniel and lived for 15 years. In September 2015, they would have been married 20 years.

Education: Lincoln High School, Tacoma. Northern Arizona University, Arizona NRA Safety Instructor, 1972; Gunsite-Raven Corp 1977; WA Emergency Medical Technician 1982; Job Training Partnership Act Program 1993; University of Washington School of Social Work, Aging and Adult Services 1996-1997

Designations, awards, and other recognition; Navy Good Conduct Award , 1963; Honorable Discharge, Navy 1965; American Pistol Institute Expert Status 1977

Employment: 1970-1975 Lockheed Aircraft, Phoenix, Arizona; 1975-1980 AAA Mobile Homes, Colville

1980-1983 Alert Network, Snohomish ; 1984-1986 Strike Management , Dallas, Texas; 1986-1990 Consultants Plus, Inc.,Spokane, WA; 1991-2001 Rural Resources Community Action, Colville ; 2006-2008 Sety's Ace Hardware, Chewelah

Hobbies; reloading ammunition, collecting guns, designing and building traditional bows and arrows. Started up Gobblers End Turkey Calls, making custom turkey calls with engraving. He made scratch box calls, wing bone calls, etc. Sports- Archery, Traditional, Recurve and compound ; shooting sports, hunting Bear, Cougar, Deer, Turkeys, Wild pigs

Activities; chairman, Northeast Washington "Read to Succeed" adult literacy Society for Human Resource Management; Pacific Northwest Personnel Management Assoc.

Ed is survived by his spouse, Rebecca Rae Blankinship, Chewelah; siblings, Christine Valentini, sister, Boulder. Colorado; nephew, Matthew Phillips, Oregon; cousin, Jenni Guadnola, Tacoma; Jackie and Dennis Shea, Blanchard, Idaho; pets, Sweetie Pie, Ginger, and Gwendolyn the cat.

He was preceded in death by his mother, father, aunts, uncles and grandparents.

Funeral service will be held Friday, August 7, 3 p.m. at the Veterans Cemetery at Medical Lake.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Stories from friends and family:

Chris Valentini, Ed's sister: I am 10 years younger than Ed is, and I called him Wynn. When I was four or five-years-old, he would cuddle me in the old rocking chair and rock me to sleep. I felt comforted by his tenderness towards me. He would let me follow him into the woods and talk to me about the forest. I felt protected. Around 1983, I became aware of assaults in my neighborhood. Ed insisted on finding me a gun and sent it to me. Matthew and I traveled up to Washington where we spent three days in firearms training and safety. Ed was so patient, kind and comprehensive. All the memories are making me smile.

John Miskanin, Chicago, Illinois: I served in the Navy with Ed for five years from 1960 until 1965 in Rota, Spain. Ed made his rank fast. It was almost unheard of to make Aviation Electricians Mate Second Class E5 in that length of time. We had great times in Spain.

Burke Hill, Phoenix, Arizona: I met Ed in Phoenix in the 1960's when he walked into my gun shop. We were fast friends from then on and went shooting together a lot. I made him his own custom pistol. Went to Washington a few years ago and spent a week with him at the hunting cabin. What a great time we had. He was a good shooting buddy.

Steve Hughett, Spokane: I met Ed in 1975; among our common interests was the sport of competitive combat shooting. I learned that Ed was somewhat of a shooting legend and if we were lucky, we might get an invitation to one of his competitive events in Sequim. Ed was a past graduate of the American Pistol Institute, better known as Gunsite. That fact alone carried a high degree of respect for the students who were lucky enough to be accepted by Jeff Cooper. Ed ranked number 11 out of an approximately 350 competitors who travelled to the Soldier of Fortune Shoot in Georgia to perform against the very best in a one-week three-gun competition.

Ed was the range master of the local gun range in Sequim and when not working at his regular job managing a gun shop, he taught the practical pistol technique to students who were willing to travel to Sequim. The next year, we started in early spring traveling to Oregon, Canada, Idaho, and Montana to participate in competitions. Ed had graduated at the top of his class, and that was why Jeff Cooper had asked him to come down and teach.

In Deer Park, Ed started shaping out the new Firearm Training Center with roads, a classroom, instructor's quarters, and everything else needed to open it to the public. We hosted our first class July 22, 1982 and taught every weekend throughout 1982 through 1987.

Ed McNett, Elma: I remember how we met because of his caring. He was looking for help obtaining archery equipment for a disabled client. Probably one of the longest internet friendships on record.

Jim Carvalho, Chewelah: Ed and I met in 2001 at my workplace. We hit it off right away when we starting talking about hunting. We were both traditional bow hunters. I had a spot in an apple orchard and could not use a tree stand and Ed suggested I use a ground blind. I bought one for early season, four feet across, but turned out it was not big enough. He advised me which one would be better and big enough to draw a bow. Therefore, I bought one for the late season and finally got that buck. Ed helped me get my first turkey in 2002 using one of his handmade turkey calls. He invited me up to his hunting cabin to hunt bear. I helped Ed get one of his bears out of there. We went hunting together whenever we could over the years. Ed would advise me where to set up my blinds, and of course, I saw more deer then. We shared our hunting spots and hunting knowledge. We also became good friends on a personal level and shared those experiences. We took the boys up to the cabin in 2013 to hunt bears too and had a great time. Ed was sensible, giving, and very humorous.

Pamela Wester, Chewelah: I met Ed in 2000 and thought, "who is that guy with a pony tail queue?" He hired me in 2001 to work for Rural Resources. I always knew Ed was proud of me and always was encouraging for my future.

Eddie Chumney, Jackson, TN: I am a hunter and we met online. Went to Washington to hunt with Ed and he gave me a piece of yew wood and vine maple. My Dad is making a walking cane with the wood.

Nephew Matthew Phillips: Uncle Ed gave me a rifle for Christmas when I was seven. In fifth grade, I spent a week in the summer with him. Memorable for tubing down the river, shooting, and ringworm.

Cousin Jennie Anderson Guadnola, Tacoma: My mom Esther and Ed's mom Ruth lived together when their husbands went off to the service in WWII. Ed lived with them for the first two to three years of his life. They doted on him, loving him and spoiled him.

John Gowaty, Pennsylvania: Ed and I became friends over the internet. It was a turkey feather trade for some of his handmade calls. I still have them and my son uses them every year. He sent little video clips and trail cam pictures. I always thought it was cool how he called his wife his "bride".

Dan Leep: I thought it was great that he referred to his wife as his "lovely bride". We met online in an archery community where we swapped archery equipment. We have been friends online for 20 years. Ed was a fine wood craftsman and I proudly own every style of turkey call he made. He had a great sense of humor, and sent many photos.

 

2013, Clayton, Stevens Co., WA, Obituary

Published in Spokesman-Review on March 5, 2013

72 Years of Life Carol McQuitty passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Friday, March 1, 2013. A longtime resident of Clayton, WA and most recently Loon Lake.

Carol is survived by her husband John, of 51 years; her children Paula Wiltse, Pam Carnline, John McQuitty, Jr.; her sisters and brother; Phoebe Turley, Ron Fellows, Linda Brazille, Penney Blankenship, and numerous nieces and nephews. The loves of her life were her 13 grandchildren. She held each one in her heart in their own special place. Their adventures with each one; she called them 'their special days together,' were unique to each individual and every grandchild felt her deep and abiding love for them.

Carol was born on May 9, 1940 in Butte, Montana and raised in the Boise, Idaho area. She graduated from Boise High School in 1958. Following this, she worked as a telephone operator, served in the US Navy in communications, and retired as a successful student loan officer at Spokane Teachers Credit Union. She always chose her career as homemaker and mother as the most important work she would ever do. She loved wintering in Arizona with her husband Mac and served in many callings in her Church, including twice as Relief Society President in the Clayton Ward. As a young mother, she started tole painting which led to wood carving Santa's and most recently she began making jewelry with cabochons. She taught art/painting classes to lucky students as well as sharing her gift for carving. Her talent for art came naturally to her and each piece came with a portion of her heart tucked inside. Those of us who have one or more of her creations cherish them as their own token of the love they feel for Carol. She will be missed by her family, numerous friends and acquaintances.

Memorial services will be held Wednesday, March 6 at 11am at the Riverside Chapel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Lauer Funeral Chapel in Deer Park, WA

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Thurston                                                                                                          

 

2010, Lacey, Thurston Co., WA, Death

The News Tribune, (Tacoma, WA) - December 15, 2010

Austin Blankenship - Sleeping teen killed as SUV crashes into house; driver sought  A Lacey family is mourning the death of a 16-year-old boy described as a jokester and gentle giant who sang along with the radio and loved computers. Austin Blankenship was killed early Tuesday morning while asleep in his bedroom after a man crashed a sport utility vehicle into a residence in the 4500 block of Ruddell Road in Lacey.

Authorities want to question Bobby Glenn Hicks, 27, who they suspect was driving the SUV, according to a Lacey police officer. They have questioned the passenger. Hicks last was seen at 5:30 a.m. Tuesday in the 1600 block of 35th Avenue East in Tacoma. Hicks has ties to the Nisqually Reservation and is known to frequent the Puyallup Reservation or surrounding areas, Lt. Jim Mack said. He could face vehicular-homicide charges, Mack added. Police received a call about the crash about 12:30 a.m. Tuesday. Two witnesses said they saw an SUV speeding east on 45th Avenue and across Ruddell Road before slamming into the home, Lt. Phil Comstock said. Witnesses said they saw two men get out of the vehicle and flee northbound on Ruddell Road. The witnesses followed the two men but said the men hid near Mullen and Ruddell roads.

Thurston County sheriff's officers and Olympia police also responded, and two police dog searches were conducted, but the suspects were not found. By the time medics arrived, Blankenship was dead. Blankenship's mother, stepfather and aunt gathered at the home Tuesday while a claims adjuster looked over the damage. By late morning, a blue tarp covered the hole that the SUV had punched through the home. Pink insulation and yard furniture littered the scene. Blankenship's parents, stepfather, Terry, and mother, Kim Bescoter, were home during the crash and, because of the damage, had to escape through a window.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2010, Lacey, Thurston Co., WA, Obituary

http://www.adamtolermemorialfuneralhome.com/pages/show_printable_content.php?siteid=118&action=1&value=12&menuitem=1206&obituaries_action=15&obituaryid=67951&obituaries_page=1

Austin "Bowdy" Blankenship 16, departed this life Tuesday, December 14, 2010 due to a tragic accident. A celebration of "Bowdy" life will be 7:00 p.m Friday, January 7, 2010 at Adam Toler Memorial Chapel

The family will receive friends from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Services entrusted to Adam Toler Memorial Funeral Home, Oceana, WV.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2010, Lacey, Thurston Co., WA, Memorial

http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Austin-Blankenship&lc=7560&pid=147172991&mid=4480668

Austin Cheyenne Blankenship also known as "Bowdy" or "BO", was born on March 17, 1994 at Princeton Community Hospital, Princeton, WV, to Kimberliee and Danny R. Blankenship.

He was the youngest of 3 children, he has a sister, Amber Karen Keeny, of Lacey, WA and a brother Aaron Corey Wes Blankenship, of Jesse, WV. He also leaves behind his Mother Kimberliee Benscoter of Lacey, WA and his beloved Step-father Terry Benscoteralso of Lacey, WA.

He is preceded in death by his father Danny R. Blankenship, of Princeton, WV, his paternal Grand-mother Addie Alice Blankenship also of Princeton, WV, step-Grandfather James W. White, of Rockview, WV, and uncle SSG. Darren D. Vankomen, of Olympia, WA.

First let me say, it is going to be extremely difficult to sum up this great life in a few paragraphs, I could write books and still never be able to describe Bowdy for how much he meant to not just his family but his multitude of friends. I hope everyone will take a minute to write a comment about how Austin impacted their life. I will cherish them all forever.

Austin from the start was quite the charmer. He learned at the early age of 1 that he could get his way with his beautiful deep blue eyes and that sweet smile. He had an infectious laugh and sense of humor, it was true...it was almost impossible to discipline him if you had to look him in the eye, the twinkle of mischief and a kind heart was always there, accompanied by the most beautiful smile. He was so difficult to stay mad at for long. But he could also push your buttons if he thought he could get away with it....and he would.. he was your typical little boy, he loved playing, always the jokester and loved to make people laugh. when he was around 4yrs old he would often walk up to someone and say "let me ask you a joke"...we could never convince him it was "tell us a joke". Austin was in constant motion, always curious, running, jumping and asking questions..forever wanting to know how things worked..anything and everything. Austin was great working with his hands, one day in particular when we lived in Colorado..he had been unusually quiet and busy one day..in his room "working" on something he said...he was all of 4 yrs old...late in the evening he proudly called me to his room to show me a little car he had built from a piece of wood, he had used axles from one of his old model cars, but the most amazing thing he had taken the lightbulbs from 2 small flashlights and wired them on the car, hooked to a 9volt battery so the car would have lights. I asked him how did he know how to do that, he just shrugged his shoulders and said "I dunno, I just do"..He was always so smart, he could look at something and figure out how it was built.

Always full of life, smiling and laughing, he was so proud when he got to be the ringbearer at our wedding when he was 6 yrs old ...one of the classic moments of the day, Austin turned to me and asked how to spell "Benscoter", as he was writing on a napkin after the ceremony. I remember asking him, "Don't you think you need to learn how to spell Blankenship first?" he dropped his pen and said very dramatically, "why no..my name is Benscoter now"...confused I asked "what?", he dropped his head and raised it back up slowly as if talking to a small child.."But Mom we just got married..." we will never forget our recepetion dinner for all the obvious reasons, but especially that one conversation.

Austin was an avid lover of football. He started playing in the 4th grade while attending Brushfork Elementary, Brushfork, WV.. he would play either center or right guard. he would watch the NFL games with his step-father Terry and his brother Corey critiquing what they could do better..he played little league baseball unitl he broke his right arm while letting his younger cousin Kayla teach him how to rollerblade outside his Grandmother Peggy's home,on a small gravel road. The arm in a cast all summer ended his baseball "career", he was all football after that.

Austin travelled with his family all over the country, he lived in not only WV, but also Colorado, and North Carolina. He has seen pretty much all of the country..we have taken numerous road trips coast to coast...he loved taking pictures as we travelled, I think we have 100 pictures of the St. Louis Arch. Sunrises and sunsets fascinated him, especially driving across Kansas and Wyoming, we have many shots of those too. He has been to see the Grand Canyon, the California Rdwoods, Mt. Rushmore...he loved nothing better than a "roadtrip" and looked forward to when he could help with the driving.

Austin was all about family, he loved 4th of July cookouts at his uncle BJ's house with all of his cousins, and was forever talking about the 4th of July we spent at Myrtle Beach in 2001, when the waves rolled and swept away his beach chair, he and his cousins had a blast trying to catch it before it got away. He was very close to all his cousins, Brittany, Courtney, Tiffany, Trey, Kayla and Chelsea were "partners in crime" for many escapades they were involved in. He was looking forward to the next roadtrip slated for this summer back to WV, NC, and SC...gem mining, and the Alpine INN just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in NC. I asked him did he want to move back to NC, he told me "I want to go visit maybe spend the summer or something, but I want to come back here to WA". Austin being so curious and very smart was bored with conventional school, he attended Timberline High School in 2008-2009, but opted to leave and start the new "online high school" being a nightowl like his Mom he felt if he could control the time he went to school his grades would improve.That was not the case, that too was not enough to challenge his busy mind so he was granted permission to test for his GED at the ripe old age of 16 and passed with flying colors....his diploma was "with honors". He was so proud. He attended the summer New Market Skills Center last summer learning construction, which he enjoyed thouroughly because he was working with his hands..he was trying to decide what direction he wanted to go with his education..he aspired to be a chef at one point he enjoyed the Food Networks' Chef Ramsey on Hell's Kitchen, 30minute meals from Racheal Ray, and all the different places Guy Fiero visited...he was very artisitic, was a whiz at computers, photoshop was his favorite. he though at one point he wanted to "specialize' in computer graphic arts and design..but had just decided he didn't want his job to be his former hobby..."What would I do for fun then?" he asked..this was on the trip back from WV when we had attended his Father's funeral. So he announced he had decided he wanted to follow in his uncle BJ's footsteps and become a diesel mechanic....his plans were to start with the auto technician program which included training on the new hybrids..he then wanted to advance to diesel mechanic.

Austin had passed his learners in September and was doing very well driving. He drove the family to Leavenworth, WA on October 9, of this year. He done wonderful minus a small parking snafu...he was so proud he drove through Tacoma, to North Bend around the small loop across Stevens pass to Leavenworth, Wenatchee and Ellensburg and finally back home.

He had been trying to get a job, had put in more than 100 applications, and would often joke about how of course he would "come of age" to work during the worst economy since the depression...he busied himself playing his call of duty online with many friends, he loved his music..Jay-Z, Eminem, Tu-Pac, and Kid Cudi to name a few he was well rounded and loved all types of music in his words "if it's good I have it on my computer". He loved his dogs Chester and Tucker would often opt to "puppy-sit" in lieu of going to the grocery store with Mom and Dad. he loved the newest member of the family "kitty" we had been trying to choose the best name, Austin said "kitty" thats all he listens too. so now it's official I guess.

Austin had an appreciation for life far beyond his 16 years, on a trip with his Aunt Stephaine to Idaho this past April, they had discussed how life was too short to waste on being angry all the time...always the diplomat he was forever trying to help people when they had problems or issues. He was their "voice of reason"..so wise beyond his years...He had told Stephaine that's why we should live life like that Tim McGraw song "Live like you were dying", and he did. Always quick with a smile, the latest joke he heard, his favorite comedians were Jeff Foxworthy and Christopher Titus. He was quite the ladies man too, he loved his "Jor", not sure he ever told her, you could just hear in his voice when he talked about her. Austin had so many facets to his persona, he was everything to everybody, those that never had the pleasure to meet him it is a great loss , because all that were blessed to meet him know what I am talking about, he was one of a kind. There is a whole in universe since the day we lost him that can never be filled.

Austin was not only my baby or my son, he was a great friend. we had weathered some gray days in his early teen years, But he overcome the challenges many young men face during adolescence, and became a prime example how with hard work, and perserverance you can overcome anything. I will miss our evening talks before Terry got home from work, I will miss our disagreements as well. He made me so proud how far he had come..I regret I will never know how far he would have gone...he had such promise.

To say he will be missed is an understatement, he was such an important part of so many peoples lives. We were so blessed to have had him for 16 years, the world is a better place because he was here...I will never understand why GOD called him home. It was a funny saying we had "If God made anything better than him, He kept for himself". And his sister Amber said "GOD must have lost his, and decided he wanted ours". Another conversation he and I had one day not too long ago as we ran errands and he drove the subject somehow came up about funerals. he said "I think BJ (his uncle) has the right idea...when I die I don't want anybody to cry, I want to be cremated, then we all go to a place where everybody has on a white polo, carpenter jeans, favorite cologne,(got to smell good ), new white strings in your all white kicks (because you can't always afford new shoes, but you can always afford new strings), set around, play music, eat pizza, laugh and talk about all the good times we have had. I can't be dealing with no tears...yo, that's wassup." I told him Austin your crazy he said "no man, I am being serial dude..think about it..I won't have to unload the dishwasher anymore..and no more laundry...sweet!" Always my little comedian. I just shook my head and laughed.

The "rule" we have always tried to live by, or saying, we have in pictures, and wall decoration all over our house Austin was the living epitome of... "LIVE, LAUGH, LOVE"

Live life at its fullest

Laugh at the things that don't matter

Love with all that you have and more

He was always saying "Never let them know what your really thinking, just smile and wave boys....just smile and wave"

This!!! IS!!! Austin!!! our "Gentle Giant".

 

2013, Olympia, Thurston Co., WA, Obituary

Published in The Olympian on July 26, 2013

Carl McPhetridge, son of Esther and Earl McPhetridge was born on April 2, 1938.

Carl was a full-time Washington National Guard member, retiring in 1994 as a Lieutenant Colonel. He continued to serve his community, providing transportation and free IRS tax service for the elderly. Carl will be dearly missed by his family and community.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Janet; children and spouses, Deborah and Richard Green, Wendy and Steven Rittereiser, Beth Swift, Diana and Sam Hall, and James McPhetridge; grandchildren and their spouses Jennifer and Jim Eidahl, Aaron Green, Adam Green, Mindy and Paul Burkett, Jason and Michelle Rittereiser, Brian Rittereiser, Stephanie, Nicole, and Kaitlyn Nelson, and Rhiannon McPhetridge; great grandchildren; sisters and their husbands Sharon and Les Blankenship, Ann and David Moses, Janet Kelly; and nieces and nephews.

A memorial Service and reception will be at St. Michael's Church, 1208 11th Ave SE, Olympia, on July 31, 2013 at Noon.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2014, Olympia, Thurston Co., WA, Obituary

The Olympian, (WA) Date: July 2, 2014

Delmon Ernest Blankenship passed away peacefully on June 26, 2014, surrounded by his family. He was born on May 13, 1935, in Ajlune, WA to William and Segretta Blankenship.

Del served in the United States Marine Corps and later served as a Fireman at McCord Airforce Base for 33 years. He enjoyed his days running Del's Landscaping which started his love for gardening. He enjoyed barbequing, cooking, his race horses at Longacres, playing blackjack, hanging with his buddies at Hawks Prairie, visiting his family in Hawaii and especially Washington Husky Football.

Del was preceded in death by his brothers, Arnold, Harry, and Freeman; and his grandson, Jason Morgan.

He is survived by his two daughters, Greta Flavin and Cyndi Helle (Greg); grandchildren, Joseph Morgan, Mackenzie Richardson (Spencer), Kasha Sonntag (Scott), Greg Jr. Helle (Kristin), Dusty Hovrud (Jessica), Joshua Morgan, Hailee Helle, Randee Helle, Kendell Flavin, Chelsea Flavin; and 14 great grandchildren, Kai and Porter Richardson, Isaiah and Mason Sonntag, Brogan, Tyson, and Cora Helle, Justus Morgan, Lucas Hovrud, Dillon, Olivia, and Thane Helle; Jayda Helle, and Jahsiah Flavin. Del was survived by his brother, Swede Blankenship.

Del's true love was his family. He was a man who valued relationships and touched his friends and family in many different ways. His strong legacy will live on.

A service will be held in his honor at Tahoma National Cemetery 18600 SE 240th St., Kent, WA 98402, on Monday, July 7, 2014, at 10:15 a.m.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2016, Olympia, Thurston Co., WA, Obituary

The Olympian, (WA) - July 10, 2016

Charen Blankenship Our beloved Charen passed away July 1, 2016 at home in Olympia, WA, with us holding her hands. She was born February 23, 1943 to Theodore and Ellen Chrey in Bremerton, WA.

Charen graduated from West Bremerton High School in 1960, and earned a BA in Psychology at TESC, graduating in 1995. She married Ralph Blankenship on August 6, 1976 in Olympia, WA. Charen worked as a clerk at the Seattle Federal Reserve Bank, then as a classified ad taker at the Bremerton Sun newspaper, followed by a clerk typist and secretary at the State Department of Personnel, and finally in Human Resources at TESC from 1973 through 2000 when she retired.

She loved her kids and grandkids, volunteering at their schools, arranging for camps, or doing whatever else she thought could help them. She loved boating, traveling and gardening. She was a member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, the Bremerton Sun Group, which was comprised of former employees who have gathered now for 43 years, and personnel organizations. 1 Corinthians 13:4 defines Charen; she was patient, kind, not boastful, not proud, and was not envious. She did not dishonor others, she was not self-seeking, was not easily angered, kept no record of wrongs. She did not delight in evil but rejoiced in the truth. She protected her family and friends, she always trusted, always hoped, and persevered through her hard work and thinking through difficult issues. Charen had a vulnerable, trusting, and giving side to her that endeared her to others. Yet she stood up for herself just fine when she saw the need.

She was predeceased by her parents; and brothers, Ted Chrey and George Chrey.

She is survived by her husband, Ralph Blankenship; son, Theodore Blankenship of Olympia; daughter, Kelly Codorniz of Olympia; two grandchildren, Eli and Gabe; and sister, Karla McCullough of Silverdale, WA.

Services will be held Saturday, July 16, 2016 at 12:00 noon at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 1515 Harrison Ave., Olympia, WA.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2016, Tumwater, Thurston Co., WA, Funeral

http://www.tributes.com/obituary/show/Charen-Blankenship-103740178

Charen Blankenship: February 23, 1943 - July 1, 2016, Tumwater, Washington

Charen graduated from West Bremerton High School in 1960 and earned a BA in Psychology at TESC graduating in 1995. She was married to Ralph.

Services will be held Saturday July 16 2016 at noon at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church 1515 Harrison Ave. Olympia WA.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Ralph G. Blankenship – b.31Oct1946 - Bremerton, WA: https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2MZZ-KWB

Relatives - Charen J. Blankenship, Ted N. Blankenship, Theodore N. Blankenship.

 

Thurston Co., SSDI, http://ssdi.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/ssdi.cgi ,

Blankenship, Austin Cheyenne 16, 17Mar1994 - 14Dec2010,  Olympia, Thurston, WA,                 WV-236-41-1245

 

Walla Walla                                                                                                     

 

2013, Burbank, Walla Walla Co., WA, Obituary

Amarillo Globe-News (TX) - February 22, 2013

Zackery Eric Deetz, 13, died Friday, Feb. 15, 2013, in Burbank.

Memorial services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday in Living Waters Church in Canyon, Texas, with Shane Nease and Travis Evers officiating.

Zack loved collecting coins, wood burning, painting, ping pong, pogo, video games, pellet gun wars, baseball and working outdoors. Family and friends will miss his smile, humor, big heart, beautiful mind and personality.

Zack was preceded in death by grandparents, Bob and Emma Jean Deetz, and a brother, Gage Blankenship.

Survivors include his parents, Eric and Amy Deetz of Burns Flat, Okla., and David and Stephanie Stoltz of Burbank; four siblings, Tyler, Sadie and Coleton Deetz, all of Burns Flat, and Allysia Fine-Stoltz of Amarillo, Texas; his grandparents, Eddie and Dolores Evers of Canyon, Saied and Pam Ashraf of Amarillo, Mike and Gretchen Stoltz of Burbank and Bruce and Nona Whitney of Felt; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2013, Walla Walla, Walla Walla Co., WA, Obituary

http://mountainview-colonialdewitt.com/?pagetype=obitlink&obit_id=1099384

Wanda Jean Broeckel peacefully went to be with her Lord on September 18, 2013 with her family by her side. Wanda had a very positive attitude through her long courageous battle with breast cancer. She knew she was in God’s hands and she was ready to go when He called her home. She freely shared this testimony with all she came in contact with. Wanda chose to take ‘one day at a time’ and make the most of each day she was given instead of crying over the ‘hand’ she was dealt. She was a constant inspiration to all those around her. Wanda was born December 30, 1923 to Ernest and Estella (Dodson) Santo at the family home on School Avenue in Walla Walla.

She attended Berney Elementary where she was pitcher for the Berney softball team. She and her siblings worked in the family fruit and vegetable business throughout their school years when her father owned and operated Walla Walla Valley Nursery. She graduated from Walla Walla High School in 1942 and began working at Russell’s Candies and Café.

In June 1943 she married James W. “JW” Reeves. They had five children, Jim, Patty, Billy, Trula and Lois. They later divorced and Wanda returned to Walla Walla, a single mom with four school-age children and one in college. She taught her children by example a strong work ethic and a deep love of God. Many Sunday afternoons she could be seen running the bases or playing catch in a game of softball with her kids and their friends. She worked as a waitress at the Pollyanna Café and attended business college to learn accounting. Wanda later worked for Ben Hunt Manufacturing and Montgomery Wards. She married Al Broeckel in Walla Walla in 1971, and she began a career in the business office at St. Mary Medical Center. Wanda and Al enjoyed traveling to Alaska, Texas and many trips to the coast to visit family and friends. They were very active at First Church of the Nazarene where Wanda taught toddler Sunday School for many years. She retired from St. Mary’s after almost 20 years to be become a caregiver to her husband until his death in 1992. She and her sister Rowena “Skip” became travel partners and they visited Australia, Hawaii, Alaska, the East Coast Fall Foliage, and a train trip across Canada. Throughout her life Wanda had a heart for helping others and stepping in to see that their needs were taken care of. Everyone knew they could count on Wanda when they needed help, and she was always willing and happy to be there for them.

As a child she learned early the difference between weeds and vegetables. Later in life gardening became a hobby and brought her much enjoyment and pride as she nurtured her rose garden and blackcaps which came from her father’s stock. Wanda’s mother taught her early how to can and preserve fruit and produce. Wanda continued this labor of love for her family throughout her life. Her gifts of jams and jellies were coveted by all who received them. She loved to cook and had an open invitation to all that came by. A recent book of “Memories” revealed some of the family and friends’ fondest memories of Wanda were of the foods she so lovingly prepared and the time and attention she gave everyone. Besides her jams and jellies, she was known for her homemade clam chowder and pies. Her grandsons all shared their memories of how Grandma would always have the ‘sweetened’ cereals they never got at home – Cocoa Puffs, Captain Crunch and Trix. Wanda was an avid reader, especially during the long, cold winters when her health kept her inside.

In her three years of fighting metastatic breast cancer, she read close to 500 books through the generosity of family friend, Fern Leigh. She also enjoyed word search puzzles, passing the love of their challenge onto her great grandchildren. Wanda had an amazing memory with dates. She found great joy in consistently sending out birthday and anniversary cards to all her family, extended family and friends every year. She insisted on hand picking each card, mailing out 15-20 each month, making sure they arrived the day of the event, or the day before.

She is survived by her children, Jim (Nancy) Reeves of Chelsea, OK; Bill (Barbara) Reeves of Lewiston, ID, Trula (Kelley) McFarley of Walla Walla; Lois (Tom) Laeger of Eugene, OR; stepdaughters Sharon (Elmer) Weaver and Mary Blankenship of Lewiston, ID and Sally (Steve) Mele of Nampa, ID; a brother, Rodney (Delores) Santo of Pendleton, OR; brothers-in-law, Elbert Labenske of Santee, CA; Oscar Broeckel of Dusty, WA; Randal (Pat) Broeckel of Vancouver, WA, a sister-in-law, Goldie Santo of Walla Walla;; eighteen grandchildren; 42 great-grandchildren; and 10 great-great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews and their families; and many, many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Al Broeckel; daughter, Patty Rimbey; brothers, Henry Santo, Loren Santo, Wilfred “Bill” Santo; sisters, Lela Santo, Rowena Corlett, Marian White, and Lois Labenske.

Memorial Services will be held at 1 pm, Saturday 21, 2013, at Amazing Grace Church of the Nazarene, Clinton and Alder Streets, Walla Walla, WA.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2016, Walla Walla, Walla Walla Co., WA, Obituary

https://www.meaningfulfunerals.net/home/index.cfm?action=public%3Aobituaries.view&CFID=87542e50-cc24-4a9f-b0d5-7467a456dc5d&CFTOKEN=0&o_id=3609945&fh_id=12673

Norman W. Wilke, 83 [1933], of Walla Walla, died peacefully at home on Thursday, Feb. 18, 2016. He was born to the late Charles and Etta Grace Wilke in Troy, KS.

In the early 1940s the family relocated to Portland. Shortly after graduation from Jefferson High School, he enlisted in the Army and served as a sergeant in the Korean War. After returning from the war, he received his engineering degree from Oregon State University and moved to Walla Walla where he worked as a structural engineer for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for 31 years, retiring in 1989.

Prior to marrying Marcia D. King in 1963, he had two awesome sport cars: a Triumph TR3 and an Alpha Romeo. His love for Marcia, however, surpassed his love of those cars and their sale may be part of the reason he and Marcia had a wonderful marriage of 52 years, resulting in three children and five grandchildren.

Norm is survived by his wife, Marcia. Their living children include Cate Lyon of Walla Walla and Allison (Stuart) Blankenship of Spokane. He is also survived by daughter-in-law, Gwen Wilke and grandchildren Morgana and Maya Wilke of Kenmore, Wash., as well as Caleb, Lilith and Silas Blankenship of Spokane.

Norm was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings and his son, Christopher.

At his request no service will be held. A private family burial will take place at Washington State Veterans’ Cemetery in Medical Lake, WA.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2016, Walla Walla, Walla Walla Co., WA, Obituary

https://www.meaningfulfunerals.net/home/index.cfm?action=public%3Aobituaries.view&CFID=2bb2cd75-cf20-40f3-a72e-a182831dbbdb&CFTOKEN=0&o_id=3889933&fh_id=12673

James (Jim) Louis McWilliams of Walla Walla, passed away Aug. 28, 2016, at Park Manor Nursing Home in Walla Walla, at the age of 86. Jim was born in Palouse, Wash., on Nov. 25, 1929, to Charles and Mary Ellen Boyce McWilliams.

He was the youngest of five children, graduating from Palouse High School in 1947, making him a big Cougar fan. He met his wife of 66 years, Jean Gibbs while working summers in Milton-Freewater in the pea and wheat harvest. They were married on June 3, 1950, in Coeur d’ Alene.

Jim worked as a welder in the ship yards in Bremerton, Wash., during the Korean War, changing destroyer ships into aircraft carriers. Their first child Debi, was born in Bremerton. They soon tired of all the rain in Bremerton and decided in 1952, to move back to Milton-Freewater. He was employed for five years by Holsum Bread Company, taking flour from the flour mill in Milton-Freewater to the bakery in Lewiston, bringing back bread for the delivery trucks in the area. Later he decided he wanted to be his own boss, and built a machine and welding shop repairing farm equipment, as well as building new truck beds for new cab trucks for the local car and truck dealers. After eight years he sold the welding business and bought the local Western Auto Store/McWilliams Family Store, and operated it together with his wife. He hired his best friend Butch Sloan to help them run the store.

After 23 years he decided to retire and move to Haines City, Fla. They lived in Florida for 16 years. While there Jim loved to golf and was out on the golf course every day. Jim was eventually diagnosed with the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s disease, so they returned to the Walla Walla area where they could be closer to family. Jim served on the Mac-Hi school board for eight years, the Farm Labor Camp board for 15 years. He was a member of Rotary for 31 years and volunteered in numerous projects around Milton-Freewater, the largest being the addition of 9 holes at the local golf course. He loved watching and participating in all kinds of sports.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Mary Ellen McWilliams; his brothers, George and Leslie; sisters, Mary Adler and Shirley Couey; one grandson, Justin Blankenship.

Survivors include his wife, Jean; four children, Debi Bacot, Mary Jo Fraser, Shari and (Don) Hanson, Jim and (Claudette) McWilliams; seven grandchildren, four great-grandchildren.

A memorial service is planned for Oct. 1, 2016, at the First Christian Church in Milton-Freewater at 2 p.m. with Pastor Steve Lyons officiating.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Whatcom                                                                                                          

 

2012, Everson, Whatcom Co., WA, Obituary

The Bellingham Herald, (WA) - January 8, 2012

Brenda Mae Ross, age 57, of Everson, passed away on Thursday, January 5, 2012. Brenda was born on December 13, 1954, in Seattle, Washington, to Robert and Rita (Nickolsen) King.

She graduated from Ferndale High in 1973 and studied Lummi Aquaculture. She was a free spirit and lived in Alaska on her own, moved to the California Red Woods, and then returned home to raise a family. She loved the beach, native arts, making Indian Dancers out of driftwood, and music, but most of all she loved her children and family.

She is survived her sons, Andy and Cody Ross; daughter, Chelsea Ross; mother, Rita Blankenship; brothers, Robert, Fred, and Frank King; sister, Thereasa Shannon; and numerous other relatives and friends.

A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, January 9, at 11:00 AM at the Wexliem Community Building.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Whitman                                                                                                          

 

2014, Palouse, Whitman Co., WA, Obituary

Lewiston Morning Tribune (ID) - March 18, 2014

A memorial service for James L. Arthurs, 94, will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday at Kramer Funeral Home in Palouse, with the Rev. Corey Laughary officiating. The U.S. Army Funeral Honors Team and Potlatch Post No. 10300 Veterans of Foreign Wars will participate. Urn burial will be at the Greenwood Cemetery in Palouse.

James was born July 21, 1919, at Chester, Mont., to Lonzo J. and Mary (Wirl) Arthurs. He attended his schooling at Whitefish, Mont., and finished his schooling at Kalispell, Mont. James served in the U.S. Army during World War II in the European-African-Middle Eastern theater. He was discharged as a private first class on Sept. 30, 1945. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy on May 23, 1947, and was discharged May 22, 1952, as a seaman apprentice.

James married Mary Franklin at Moscow in 1949, and the couple were later divorced. Mr. Arthurs worked construction all his life. He started out in Butte, Mont., and later moved to Pullman in 1953. He worked on many buildings on the Washington State University campus including the Regents Hall, French Administration Building and the Stephenson Complex. He retired in 1971. He later moved to Palouse to live with his daughter, Helen Hodson. He was a member of the WA-ID Laborers Local No. 238 and a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans.

Survivors include one son, William (Bill) Arthurs of Chattaroy, Wash.; and two daughters, Helen (Jerry) Hodson of Palouse and Betty (Terry) Blankenship of Albion. James is also survived by 14 grandchildren, Janice Meeuwsen (Steve), Patricia Hinnenkamp (Ron), Jeremy Hodson (Jackie), David and Patrick Blankenship , Jeannie, Angela Arthurs, Levi Asmussen (Christy), Rashel Asmussen, Jaimee Arthurs, Angela Fairburn, Tamera, Justin and Cory Chapman; and 19 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a stepson, John Chapman.

Memorials may be given to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, P.O. Box 2472, Spokane, WA 99210-2472. Kramer Funeral Home of Palouse is handling the arrangements.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

+2010, Pullman, Whitman Co., WA, Obituary

http://www.dnews.com/story/obituaries/56462/ , Posted on: Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Thomas Gray Blankenship, 81, a Pullman resident, passed away Saturday, Oct. 23, 2010, at Pullman Regional Hospital. A memorial gathering will be at 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 29, at the Hilltop Restaurant in Pullman.

Tom was born Aug. 10, 1929, in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, to Elias and Francis (Gray) Blankenship. He lived in several different places while growing up before the family came to Pullman where he graduated from high school in 1947. Tom enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard and served honorably until his discharge in 1950. He married Beverly M. Barton on Oct. 7, 1949. They made their home in Spokane where Tom worked as a warehouseman for Pacific Fruit. He later worked as a traveling salesman for Quaker Oats and called on many grocery stores throughout the area.

After working for the Grinnell Company for a while, the family moved to Wenatchee in 1961 where Tom worked for United Supply, a plumbing supply outfit. In 1966 he started his own business of National Plumbing & Heating in Wenatchee. He and Beverly divorced.

In 1969 he opened Service Station Repair and operated that business until selling it in 1979 and moving to Pullman. He worked in the physical plant at Washington State University until retiring in 1991. Tom was a longtime member of the Masonic Lodge and Shrine bodies, he was also a member of the Moose Lodge. He loved old wooden boats, doing yard work, and had tremendous love for his dog.

He is survived by his son, Mark, and his wife, Linda Blankenship of Spokane, and four stepgreat-grandchildren; Donald R Barton and his wife, Barbie, and all of Jerry's family. He was preceded in death by a son, Jeff, two years to the day of his passing on Oct. 23, 2008, and by a brother, Jerry.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2012, Pullman, Whitman Co., WA, Obituary

Lewiston Morning Tribune (ID) - September 16, 2012

Edith D. Eberhardt-Jahnke passed away peacefully Aug. 22, 2012, at Bishop Place in Pullman. She was born May 29, 1919, at Leland, Idaho, to William T. Gephart and Lyda D. Gephart. She attended school at Leland and later at Troy, finishing the second year of high school.

She married Albion H. Eberhardt in 1936. On their farm between Lenore and Peck on the Eberhardt Road, they started their family. As homemaker, mother and farm hand she stayed busy. When Albion was diagnosed with MS, she also became care provider and took over the school bus-driving job which Albion had. They later moved their home to a beautiful location along the Clearwater River located between Lenore and Orofino. Here she raised a large garden, many chickens, a raspberry patch and fruit-bearing trees. She tended to the large yard and grew the many beautiful flowers that she enjoyed. Edith also worked as cook and custodian at the Lenore School and often drove school bus as a substitute. Here her love grew for the many students who attended. Edith could often be found playing a round of kickball or softball with the students on the playground. She was known for her great meals at the school and in her home. She would often be stopped by past students seeing her in town who would remember and comment on her good lunches they had at the school. Her grandchildren were often surprised with a special birthday cake she made for them - often in the shape of a turtle, elephant or bunny rabbit.

Visitors were enjoyed and welcomed into her home. They often sat at the dining table for a chat over the full cookie jar and a cup of coffee. Her garden supplied her with the many vegetables and fruits she canned and preserved. These would be opened and enjoyed at the family dinners and holidays. Edith enjoyed family gatherings, where her pride in her children and grandchildren was always evident. She enjoyed playing card games around the kitchen table and was always out to win, which she often did.

On Nov. 4, 1985, her beloved Albion passed away. Edith was heartbroken, lost and lonely. A special gift was received when she met Curtis (Lefty) Jahnke. They were married later on Dec. 27, 1987. The couple adored, loved and cared for each other. They stayed in the Lenore home until the yard and property maintenance became too much to do. They then moved to Kendrick in 1992. They lived there for 15 years caring for a small garden, feeding quail, growing flowers and watching the hummingbirds from their dining room window. In 2008, Lefty was placed in Bishop Place, where he passed away on Dec. 19, 2008. Edith was a special person who loved and respected everyone. The caretakers at Bishop Place enjoyed having her as she was always smiling and willing to do anything they asked. She enjoyed the many activities, puzzles, exercises, van sightseeing and games (which she still was out to win, and did).

Edith is survived by her sister, Norma Blankenship of Canada daughters Evelyn Hatley and husband Jim of Pilot Rock, Ore., and Linda Hillman of Colfax grandsons Jerry Heimgartner and wife Jana, Rick Heimgartner and wife Wanetta, Ron Boyle and wife Shelle, and Robert Boyle and wife Lynn and granddaughters Teresa Teater and husband Kevin, Joan Weinke and husband Tim, Rebecca Hatley, Kimberley Sullivan and husband Shawn, and Renay Hillman and husband Garrett. Edith is also survived by 16 great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren.

Edith was preceded in death by her parents, William T. Gephart and Lyda D. Gephart and brothers Clyde Gephart, Claude Gephart, Lloyd Gephart, Clayte Gephart and Floyd Gephart.

A graveside service is planned for 3 p.m. Sept. 21 at Mountain View Memorial Gardens, on the corner of Seventh Street and Cedar Avenue in Lewiston.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

Whitman Co., SSDI, http://ssdi.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/ssdi.cgi ,

Blankenship, Tom G.         81, 10Aug1929 - 23Oct2010,           Pullman, Whitman, WA,                 WA-539-24-8300             

 

Yakima                                                                                                             

 

+2012, Sunnyside, Yakima Co., WA, Obituary

http://www.funeralhomesmith.com/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=1659005&fh_id=13415

Walter Vern Blankenship, 87, of Sunnyside passed away peacefully at his home on September 24, 2012 in Sunnyside, WA, from Lewy Body Dementia. He was born on November 14, 1924, in Richfield, Kansas to Garfield and Eunice (Tripp) Blankenship.

Walt moved from Kansas to Sunnyside with his family in 1939 and graduated from Sunnyside High School in 1942. Walt and his wife, Dorothy, would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on September 26, 2012. Walt will be remembered for his never ending humor, wit, patience and infectious smile.

At the age of 18, Walt was drafted into the United States Army on July 28, 1943 and was part of the Co I 307th Infantry, 77th Infantry Division. On April 18, 1945, Walt was wounded on Ie Shima, a small island just west of Okinawa, while evacuating a wounded comrade. Walt received many decorations including the Purple Heart, Asiatic Pacific Ribbon, World War II Victory Medal, and American Theater Ribbon. His love and dedication for his country was apparent to his family and friends.

After Walt returned from the war, he met the love of his life, Dorothy Johnson, one evening while driving the Sunnyside ‘strip’. They married on September 26, 1952 and celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary this year in spirit. Inseparable, their journeys took them many places. Always a very hard worker, Walt drove long-haul trucks & was a heavy equipment operator. He worked road construction throughout Washington, Oregon, and Idaho on many county, forest and highway roads. During the summer, his family followed him throughout the Northwest, living in a travel trailer and having the time of their lives. After his children left home, Walt and Dorothy continued working and traveling together on every job. They spent many winters in Arizona, traveling in their motorhome with friends.

Walt and Dorothy lived in the same home in Sunnyside for over 55 years. Many friends would pull in a car or truck into Dad’s shop so he could help them repair it or just to have a cold beverage and talk. We enjoyed many Friday pizza nights at their house. Dad was always willing to help out a friend and easily made strangers into friends. In the years before he became ill, you could often find him visiting friends in the hospital, assisted living, or nursing homes. He always thought of others before himself, a life-long and defining attribute that he instilled in his family.

Walt was an inspiration and remarkable role model to his children and grandchildren. His enthusiasm for math inspired his daughter to become a math teacher. His life chosen career of being a truck driver/heavy equipment operator was passed on to his son. His gift of gab, smiling personality, and commitment to help others was passed on to his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His granddaughter Angie felt it was an honor and a privilege

to care for her Grandfather in his last years. Thank you Brother, Husband, Dad, Grandpa and Friend for everything you taught and sacrificed for us.

Walt is survived by his best friend and loving wife of 60 years, Dorothy Blankenship of Sunnyside, their daughter, Laurel (Mike) Carpino of Zillah, son David (Karen) Blankenship of Wapato, 7 grandchildren: Julie (Clint) Anderson, Angela (Mark) Westenberg, Tommy (Heather) Judkins, Michael Carpino, Matthew Carpino, Vivian and Max Weisbarth; and 9 great grandchildren: Morgan Westenberg, Tawnee and Teagan Bynum, Auslyn and Asher Schab, Calie, Cole and Case Judkins, and Haylee Carpino. He is survived by his brothers Lee (Ellie) Blankenship and Bernard Blankenship of Olympia. He is also survived by many friends and his caregivers, Danielle and Korina.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Garfield and Eunice Blankenship, brother Lawrence Blankenship, and sisters Gladys Rogers and Lois Brooks.

A celebration of Walt’s life will be held on Friday, September 28, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at Smith Funeral Home in Sunnyside. A reception at the Sunnyside V.F.W. will directly follow the memorial service.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2011, Yakima, Yakima Co., WA, Obituary

Yakima Herald-Republic (WA) - January 13, 2011

Kathleen Loise Christman, 82, of Yakima, died Monday at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital. Mrs. Christman was born in Laidlaw, British Columbia. She worked as an apple packer at Northwestern Fruit Co.

Survivors include three daughters, Christine Ennis of Naches, Jodie Dibert of Yakima and Renee Blankenship of Moxee; a son, Dan Christman of Antioch, Calif.; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be at 10 a.m. Monday at Keith and Keith Terrace Heights Chapel. Graveside inurnment will be at noon Tuesday in Tahoma Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2013, Yakima, Yakima Co., WA, Obituary

Yakima Herald-Republic (WA) - January 20, 2013

Herman Alford Duckworth was born June 21, 1921 and passed away Wednesday, January 16, 2013. He lived a rich, Christian life for over 91 years and will be remembered for his sense of humor and quiet strength.

Herman was preceded in death by two wives, Beulah (40 years) and Adeline (24 years).

He is survived by his children Leroy Duckworth, Lloyd Duckworth, Sharon Cloos, Carol Blankenship, Judy McClure, and Adeline's children, Bill Curnutt and Betty Curnutt, 15 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, 3 great great grandchildren, sister Wasene Hoskins and brother Eugene Duckworth.

Herman and Beulah Humbyrd were married on June 2, 1941 and settled in Missouri on the farm where he was born. Herman served in the Army from 1945 to 1946, then moved his family to the Yakima Valley and bought a small farm north of Prosser in 1957. He was employed by the USDA from 1963 to 1983 at the Irrigated Agricultural Research and Extension Center.

After Beulah's death in 1982, he married Adeline Curnutt from Springfield, Missouri and warmly welcomed her children and grandchildren into his family. He and Adeline lived in Springfield until her passing in 2006. He returned to Yakima in 2007 where he resided until his death.

Services will be held Friday, January 25rd at the Prosser Church of God, where he was a member for over 30 years.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

 

2014, Yakima, Yakima Co., WA, Obituary

http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Joyce-Lions&lc=4207&pid=171415661&mid=6015907

Joyce Alice Powney Lions, 86, passed away peacefully in her own antique brass bed on Monday, June 16, 2014. She was born on November 25, 1927 to Ada and William Powney in Richmond, Surrey, England.

She spent her early years tending to her many dollies in the third floor attic at St. Mary's Grove, scrumping apples from the neighbor's tree, and going to Saturday matinees with her best friend, Pat.

When war came to London, Joyce, her sister Rita and brother William were sent to northern England for safety. Their home in St. Mary's was demolished due to damage caused during the London Blitz of 1940-41. She was 13. When Joyce was 16 and very thin due to wartime rationing, she was hired by Sudbury Kennels. It was her job to feed and exercise her group of racing greyhounds, who were also very thin due to wartime rationing. While taking the dogs to the racetrack in London, the lorry she was riding in was very nearly hit by a bomb.

On February 3, 1945, in Richmond, Joyce married Sergeant Raymond Fernaun Lions, 26, a handsome Yank from Sunnyside, Washington, USA. She rode to the church in a taxi, the running boards filled with guests to save on the fare. Ray and Joyce honeymooned in Brighton, a family vacation spot in previous years. The swimming pool now held coal. She was 17.

Joyce and Ray owned Lions Market in Wapato, and raised their eight children in their house next to it. Joyce loved her family, gardening, Lipton's tea, dogs, refinishing furniture and really good leather purses. She loved to jitterbug, play the nickel slots in Reno, Midsomer Murders, oil painting, crossword puzzles, and road trips anywhere. She was a born optimist and had the gift of making people laugh with her pithy observations and favorite jokes. Erma Bombeck was her guiding star. Joyce never returned to England nor did she lose all of her British accent. She became a US Citizen in 2004, receiving her certificate from the hand of her own son, Rob.

Joyce is survived by four children, Susan (Wilhelm) Gruner, Snohomish, Raymond (Julia) Lions, Portland, Rita (Steve) Babcock, Wapato, and Rob Lions, Yakima, nine grandchildren, Alice Tilton, Elizabeth (Bill) Armstrong, Nathan (Molly) Lions, Ray (Mandy) Lions, Amanda (Josh) Blankenship, Andy Babcock, Chris Babcock, Rhett Lions and Shelby Lions. Her great grandchildren are Will and Luke Armstrong, Wyatt, Katelyn and Logan Blankenship, Xavier and Emory Lions, and Evelyn Lions. She is also survived by her sister Rita Gricol, Redondo Beach, California and her brother, William Powney of Kennewick and many nieces and nephews.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband Raymond, in 1985, Roger, 5, and Jacqueline, 2, in 1956, Russell, 36, in 1995 and David, 58, in 2007.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at St. Peter Claver Church in Wapato. Burial will follow at Reservation Community Memorial Park, Wapato.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com