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Obituaries
Paid Obituary notices, including both text and photos, appear on TRIBnet.com and are archived indefinitely in TRIBnet.com's searchable database.
 Today's Obituaries
Katherine Whitla Read
4/12/1917- 8/20/2008 Katherine is remembered by her children Robert, Nancy and their spouses; three grandchildren, Robert, Jim and Debra; three great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was born and raised in Coeur d'Alene, ID, a Mills College graduate, Class of '37, and taught at the Annie Wright Seminary in Tacoma. While there, she met her husband, Dr. Robert D. Read. Katherine was active in Junior League, the Garden Club of America, and the Tacoma Country and Golf Club. She was an accomplished flower arranger, including Ikebana, and a horticulturist of note. Katherine was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. In lieu of flowers, contributions to a favorite charity are suggested. A memorial service will be held 9/20/2008, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, at Little Church on The Prairie in Lakewood.
Pub Date: 9/7/2008
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 Zachary Jake VanderGriend
A gift from God was born to us on June 1, 1983, and flew into the arms of Jesus on September 1, 2008 during takeoff aboard a Neptune P2V-7 fire tanker 09 at Stead airport in Nevada; he and his fellow crew members were on their way to drop retardant on a fire in another location. Zach was living his dream. He loved his job as assistant crew chief, was passionate about serving and helping people, and he loved his new family at Neptune Aviation. Zachary was born in Sunnyside, WA, and then moved to Lynden, WA for a short time. His family then relocated to Yakima, WA, where Zach attended WestSide Christian School through 5th grade. During 5th grade, his family again moved, this time to Aurora, IL. Zachary attended Aurora Christian School through his sophomore year. He then received his education through Christian Liberty Academy in Arlington Heights, IL. At the same time, he was earning his private pilot's license, attending Waubonsee Community College and working for Shodeen Flight Department and Dick Hansen as an aircraft detailer, and for Lumanair as a lineman, all at Aurora Airport. Zach attended Moody Bible Institute and was accepted into their flight program in Tennessee. The school was moved to Spokane, WA and partnered with Spokane Community College. It was there, and at Blue Sky Arrow in Morris, IL, that Zach received his Airframe and Powerplant mechanic's license. He worked as a lineman at Felts Field in Spokane during his time there. Zach then moved to Omaha, NE, where he attended Grace University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in the Aviation Pilot/Business Program. During summer breaks, Zach worked at Blue Sky Arrow in Morris, IL and at Lumanair in Aurora as an A&P mechanic. After receiving his degree, Zach worked for a short time at the Tacoma Narrows airport as an A&P mechanic for Associated Aviation. He moved to Missoula, MT on May 26, 2008 to begin his dream job with Neptune Aviation. Zach wanted to fly and become a Missionary Pilot and expressed his desire at the age of two. God put Zachary in locations where the right people were in place to mentor him and help with his dream of flight. Early on, Zach learned how to handle tools from his 'PopPop' Jake. After moving to IL, Zach was involved in museum work as a docent, detailer and aircraft restorer. There his love of old warbirds and radial engines grew. Zach then became acquainted with EAA 579 and their Young Eagle program. Zach never missed a 'free flight' day. He spent many hours volunteering, and began giving Young Eagle rides as soon as he obtained his license. The people at 579 made it possible for Zach to earn his pilot's license. Zach was awarded a scholarship to attend the EAA's Air Academy in Oshkosh, WI. He was awarded the Presidential Youth Service Award and received it at the unveiling of the Butch O'Hare Memorial at O'Hare Airport; this was an aircraft Zach helped restore. He was given the first ever Eagle award by EAA 579. Zach loved life and was passionate about his faith in Jesus Christ. He loved his family and adored his little sister. He enjoyed working, whether it was restoring a car or an airplane. Zach loved to "turn wrenches" and get his hands dirty. He loved to travel, fish, hunt, read, ski, and he always enjoyed a good laugh. He also played piano and acted in local church productions. He was a joy to be with and his smile could light up a room. He loved to fly because it was there he felt closest to God. Zach was compassionate and generous to a fault, he was loyal, energetic and he was loved. Zachary will be greatly missed by his parents, Steve and Marci of Gig Harbor, his very special friend and sister Andriana of Gig Harbor, his sweetheart Ashley Hutton of Spokane, WA, his "Nan," Grace Gortsema, of Sunnyside, WA, and his grandparents Mick and LenaMarie VanderGriend of Lynden, WA, the many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and people he called family: Dick and RuthAnn Miller, Steve and Linda Valentine, Joe Cassidy, all of Aurora, IL, and Heather and Melody of Fresno, CA. He will also be missed by his family at Neptune Aviation, and his Crew Chief Robert. Zach was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jake Gortsema. Services will be at Sonlight Community Church, 8800 Bender Rd, Lynden, WA at 12:00 on Tuesday, September 9, 2008. Pastor Dean Curry of Life Center in Tacoma will officiate. Arrangements are with Moles Family Funeral Home, 1907 Front Street, Lynden, WA 98264 (360) 318-1321. A memorial fund for short term missions is being set up in Zachary's name. Donations may be sent to the family or the funeral home. Tributes may be viewed at Neptune Aviation's website and the U.S. Forest Service website: www.fs.fed.us/r4/htnf/ , and you may share your thoughts and memories with the family at www.molesfuneralhomes.com .
Pub Date: 9/7/2008
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Daisy Lilley
Age 86, passed peacefully September 2, 2008 in Tacoma. Daisy was preceded in death by her husband Joseph in 1997, with whom she shared 59 wonderful years of marriage. Daisy is survived by her daughters, Nell Parris (Mike) and Vicki Fletcher (Blaine), son Joseph (Iris), grandchildren Sonya Miller, Steven Parris and Charana Goetz, step-grandchildren Theresa Kaiser, Jennifer Waite and Angela Ayed, 6 great-grandchildren, and 2 step-great-grandchildren. A celebration of her life will be held on Friday, September 12, 2008 at 3:00 pm at BONNEY-WATSON Washington Memorial, 16445 International Blvd., Sea Tac, WA (206) 242-1787. Please sign the guest book at www.bonneywatson.com .
Pub Date: 9/7/2008
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Judith Ann Moe
Born June 17, 1946 to Shirley (Schwerzler) and Millerd Hutchins. Judy left our loving arms on September 4, 2008 after her 6-year courageous battle with cancer. Judy grew up and attended schools in the Tacoma area, graduating from Franklin Pierce High School in 1964. Judy married Tom Moe on July 13, 1985. Survivors include husband Tom, brother Dennis (Mary) Hutchins, daughter Lisa Green, stepchildren Beverly (Daryl) Ames, Lee Moe and Julie Frederick; 4 grandchildren, 2 nieces, 1 nephew, and many friends. Judy was a committed, devoted and dedicated employee of Harborstone Credit Union for nearly 22 years. To know Judy was to love Judy. Anyone or any animal that came in contact with her knew they were loved and appreciated. She leaves her loving family and friends with wonderful memories to cherish. A special thanks to Maxim Health Care, particularly Mindy Bennett for her kind and loving care. Donations may be made to the Humane Society in Judy's name. Services will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, September 13, 2008 in the Mountain View Celebration of Life Center, 4100 Steilacoom Blvd. SW, Lakewood, WA 98499. Arrangements by Mountain View Funeral Home. 584-0252. Please sign online guest book at www.mountainviewtacoma.com .
Pub Date: 9/7/2008
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Darrell D. Dollinger
Darrell, aged 61, passed away peacefully at home on August 31st after a long battle with cancer. He was preceded in death by his father Joseph. He is survived by his loving wife Marilyn, mother Evelyn, daughters Carry-Lee (Eric), Erica (Chris), Michelle (James), Melinda, his grandchildren, mother-in-law Betty, brother-in-law Ron (Rhonda), and his nieces and nephews. Darrell graduated from Highline High School. He was a Navy Vietnam veteran. Family came first for Darrell, with a close second between hockey and his Harley. He worked for Boeing for 29 years. There will be a Celebration of the Life of Darrell on Thursday, September 11, 2008, at 4:00 PM at Game Farm Park in Auburn. It will be a potluck and a sharing of stories about Darrell.
Pub Date: 9/7/2008
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Dorothy (Dee) Elizabeth Morley
Dee was the third daughter of Edward Emerson and Hattie Mabel Gore of Medford, OR. She was born Feburary 1, 1917 and passed into the arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Friday August 22, 2008. Dee will be missed by longtime caregivers and friends Darlene and Bob McMichael, family, nephews Alan E. Mushen (Micki) of Bay City, OR, Dr. Robert L. Mushen (Jenee) of Cannon Beach, OR, and stepchildren Gail Brassesco of Carmichael, CA and David Morley of Santa Barbara, CA. We would like to thank the Franke Tobey Jones staff and the residents as well as the Franciscan Hospice for all the wonderful care and love she received the past 6 years. Dee graduated from Medford High School in 1934. She attended college in New York, Pennsylvania, Chicago, and Eugene, OR before earning her bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from Pomona College. At age three, Dee learned to play piano from her mother, and later the viola and violin. Following instruction and guidance from numerous violin instructors throughout the country, she played in numerous symphony orchestras including Seattle and Tacoma. After a ten-year career, Dee retired from Tacoma Savings and Loan. She was a member of Eastern Star. She enjoyed working in her yard, visiting with friends, and taking care of her cats. Dee was predeceased by her husband William J. Morley of Tacoma, WA, parents, sisters Beulah Mushen of Portland, OR, Rose Patterson of Redding, CA, and Alice Holmback of Florence, OR who grew up with Dee's family.
Pub Date: 9/7/2008
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Vernon Richard Hanson
February 4, 1923 - August 31, 2008 Vernon was a retired machinist from the Boeing Company. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, snowmobiling and traveling south for the winters. He is survived by his beloved wife, Wilma M. Hanson, of 63 years, two daughters, Gloria White (Bob) of Bonney Lake, WA, Gail Wahl (Wally) of Tonasket, WA, two sons, Gary Hanson (Linda) of Lincoln, WA, Gordon Hanson (Carolyn) of Bonney Lake, seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. At his request, there will be no services.
Pub Date: 9/7/2008
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 Harold D. Frye
Harold "Don" Frye went to be with his Lord on August 29, 2008. He was born in Claybourne Parrish, Louisiana on February 18, 1917. In 1936 he joined the Army where he served in WWII and Korea retiring after 27 years of service. In 1955, he and his family moved to Tacoma when he was assigned to Fort Lewis. As a Licensed Practical Nurse, he worked the next 30 years in local area hospitals. He was a member of the Eagles and VFW for many years. His true pleasure in life was Ballroom and Swing dance. He is preceded in death by Virginia J. Frye, sister Hazel Dixon, brothers Edgar and Alvin Frye and his son-in-law William Montgomery. Harold is survived by his children Frances Montgomery, Don Frye and Merv Frye, and granddaughter Darcy Kinkela-Frye. The family wishes to convey our sincere thanks to the staff of Young at Heart Adult Family Home in Puyallup. Their care and kindness made his 2 year stay a comfort. A private service for family will be at graveside.
Pub Date: 9/7/2008
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 Annett Eleanor Vernon
January 23, 1935 to August 28, 2008 Born Annett Eleanor Mullen in Bellingham, WA to Gordon and Ella Mullen. Annett attended Bellingham schools through High School and graduated from Western Washington State College in 1963 with a teaching credential in Home Economics. From 1964 she taught at several school districts in Washington until coming to Orting in 1970 where she taught until her retirement. She was active in many organizations, including Garden Club, Delta Kappa Gamma, Red Hat ladies, food bank volunteer, and her church. Annett is survived by her husband Dewitt, her children Lynda, Greg and David, 5 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held Saturday, September 20, 2008 at 2:00pm at Destiny Christian Center, 14422 Meridian Ave E, Puyallup. In remembrance of Annett, please make donations to the Orting Food Bank, PO Box 507, Orting 98360.
Pub Date: 9/7/2008
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Paul Hogeveen
Journey started 8/1/1947. Began a new journey 9/3/2008 with his little baby girl. Survived by his wife Cathy of 24 years. At the request of the deceased, no services. There will be a gathering to celebrate his life later.
Pub Date: 9/7/2008
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Kelly K. Cleveland-Kirkpatrick
Kelly, of Puyallup, WA, passed away peacefully on 8/28/2008 surrounded by her loved ones. Memorial will be 2PM Sat., 9/20/2008 at Kent Lutheran Church. See full obituary at www.edwardsmemorial.com .
Pub Date: 9/7/2008
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Mary Ann Cool
Mary Ann Cool, former owner of Cool's Cafe in Auburn, beloved mother and grandmother, passed away at home on September 2, 2008. She was born on March 13, 1934 in Seattle, WA to Ralph and Beatrice Ruggles. Survived by her children Dianne and Michael Hagen, Robert and Sharon Cool, JJ and Sherry Cool, 13 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. Memorial services will be held on September 20, 2008 at 1:00 PM at White River Estates Trailer Park, 4248 A Street SE, Auburn WA 98002.
Pub Date: 9/7/2008
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Leonard Cline
Of Tacoma, passed away Sept. 2nd. He was born in Bucyrus, OH May 27, 1950, son of Betty Simmons. He attended John Simpson School, and joined the Marine Corps. He worked for the VA Hospital. He married Linda Hamilton (deceased). Besides his mother, he is survived by his stepfather Ronald, his stepdaughters Roberta (Curt), Rosemary, Merrie, and LaDonna, his grandchildren and great-grandchild, his stepsister Tonja (Craig), his aunt Edith, and his cousins from WA, OH and TX. Services will be held Sept. 10, 2008 at 12pm in the Mountain View Aspen Chapel.
Pub Date: 9/7/2008
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 Esther A. Grassi
Two Years and Many Tears Mom, we miss your endless laughter, wonderful dinners and sweets, and most of all your unconditional love. Thank you for the sunshine today...we know it represents your happiness to be with Jesus in Heaven. We truly long for the day when we will all be reunited. Your Loving Family
Pub Date: 9/7/2008
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 Jack M. McConkey
Born January 4, 1922 in West Seattle to Robert and Mary McConkey, passed away Sept. 3, 2008 in Shelton, WA. Jack was the youngest of 7 brothers and 1 sister. Graduated from West Seattle High in 1940 where he held the chin-up record. Jack went to Sitka, Alaska to work after high school where he met and married Elaine Peterson. They started their family in Anchorage where Jack had joined the Army. After the war they embarked on a harrowing trip over the Alcan Highway to Seattle so that Jack could go to the University of Washington on the GI bill. He graduated in 1950 with a business degree. The family moved back to West Seattle where they raised their 4 children, Cheryl (Doug) Peterson, Surain (deceased) afSandeberg, Trenton (Louise) McConkey and Ed (Ulla) McConkey. In 1964 Jack had the opportunity to buy McLean Bulb Farms and changed the name to J.M. McConkey & Co., Inc. Through his vision, innovation and leadership, he and Elaine grew their company to be the largest distributor to the horticultural industry in the west. They received many awards including the Waflora Cup. Jack was known far and wide for his wonderful voice and his singing of Tiny Bubbles at conventions and association gatherings. It was also where they made many life long friends amongst their customers and employees they worked with. Elaine passed away just shy of their 50th anniversary in 1992. Jack retired from daily activity in the company the following year and married lifetime friend Betty (Ivy-Wheat). They enjoyed over 15 years happily married, enjoying life on Hood Canal and in Hawaii. Jack also enjoyed time with his adored grandchildren Lynnette (Mike) Frank, Ryan (Renee) Peterson, Anna-Stina and Sarah McConkey and great grandchildren, Travis and Elaine Frank and Jack and Elizabeth Peterson and also the many children of his second family he was blessed with in his marriage to Betty. Jack always enjoyed spending time with children and sharing fun times and laughter with them. Modern medicine kept his Parkinson’s Disease at bay for many years, but the last few months it got the best of him and he was ready to leave us on this earth. He passed peacefully on the morning of September 3rd. His ashes are being spread on his beloved Hood Canal. A celebration of Life will be held at the Tacoma Yacht Club at noon, October 30th. Memorial donations may be made to the Elaine McConkey Endowment Fund, c/o Swedish Foundation.
Pub Date: 9/6/2008
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Timothy Eugene Asselin
Tim passed away at home on Tuesday Sept. 2, 2008. Tim is survived by his mother Evelyn Asselin, and sister Pam Haugen of Everett. There will be a pot luck memorial at Lake City Tavern, 9106 Veterans Dr. S.W., Lakewood on Monday, Sept. 8th at 6 pm. A memorial in Everett will be announced at a later date.
Pub Date: 9/6/2008
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