Obituaries and Death Notices for 2022
Edward Dee Sullivan
Edward Dee Sullivan passed away peacefully from kidney cancer Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2022, at his home in Pomeroy. He was born Aug. 20, 1941, in Corbin, Ky., to Ilene and James Sullivan.
Ed moved to Pomeroy when he was 8 and attended Castle Heights Military Academy before graduating from Pomeroy High School in 1960. While training at the academy, he took flying lessons and obtained his private pilot's license.
Ed joined the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era and served as a medic. After his honorable discharge, he attended Eastern Washington University and earned a teaching degree in 1967. His teaching career at Pomeroy High School also began in 1967 and spanned 38 years. He was a bus driver, taught wood shop, mechanical drawing, psychology, sociology, U.S. history and driver's education. In addition, he coached high school wrestling and ran the concession stand for the sports alumni.
He married Connie James in 1973, and had two children: a son, Chad, and a daughter, Angel. Although they divorced in 2012, their separation was amicable and they remained friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ilene Helke, Floyd Helke, Elias Hill and James Sullivan. He is survived by his two children: Chad (Gudrun) Sullivan and granddaughters Faith and Julia, and Angel (Brett) Klippenstein, grandchildren Abram and Alice.
Terrence "Joe" Dixon
Terence “Joe” C. Dixon, born Feb. 20, 1942, peacefully passed away in his home Monday, Dec. 23, 2022. Joe was born and raised in Pomeroy to Ruth and Carl Dixon. Joe attended Gonzaga University and later graduated from Kinman Business University in Spokane. He dedicated his life to farming. After retiring from the farming business, he owned and operated a video store in Pomeroy, where he became known as “Video Joe.” In his later years, he worked for Jim’s Fertilizer.
Joe married Donna Butler on April 20, 1963. They divorced in 1981. Joe and Donna remained close friends until Joe passed away. On April 30, 1983, Joe married Sandy Bunch. He became stepfather to Sandy’s children, Kasey, Ricky and Lisa Wescott.
Joe is predeceased by his parents, his brother Jim and his brother Sam. He is survived by his sister, Lynn Inglese, San Francisco. He is also survived by his three children and their spouses, Kathy (Tracy), Sue (Dave) and Kenny (Lisa Marie). Joe also leaves behind eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
There will be a celebration of life Feb. 25 at Holy Rosary Catholic school in Pomeroy.
Roberta Rommel
Roberta Rommel, 90, of Pomeroy, died Thursday, Dec. 22, 2022, at her home. Richardson-Brown Funeral Home of Pomeroy is in charge of arrangements.
Viewing will be available begining 11 a.m., December 28, 2022, followed by a pot luck style lunch. The family welcomes your favorite side dish. Services are scheduled at 2 p.m. at the Pomeroy Christian Church
John R. Henry
John R. Henry, beloved husband of almost 51 years, father and lifelong civil servant, passed away Sunday, Dec. 18, 2022, at 71 years old after a short battle with brain cancer. John was born in Coulee Dam to Ted and Sivilla Henry.
His youth was spent moving around central and eastern Washington with his family while his father worked construction on the Columbia and Snake river dams. When John was 15, the family settled in Pomeroy where he met the love of his life, Eileen McCabe. He was an accomplished athlete in football, basketball and baseball, earning a scholarship to play football at Whitman College in Walla Walla. He eventually transferred to Washington State University to be with Eileen. They married in 1972 in Pomeroy.
John took a job with the Idaho State Patrol and he and Eileen moved to Boise, where they stayed until John was hired by the Spokane Police Department. He was with the SPD for 14 years, reaching the rank of sergeant before being medically retired in 1987 because of injuries sustained on the force. While with the SPD, John graduated from Eastern Washington University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice and then from Gonzaga Law School with a Juris Doctorate, all while welcoming son, John, and daughter, Jessica.
John practiced law in Spokane with his older brother, Robert Henry, before relocating to Pomeroy to join in practice with Rich Burns at Burns and Henry. In 1989, John was appointed Garfield County Prosecutor and he served in that role until 2006. He served as a Superior Court Commissioner in Asotin, Garfield, and Columbia Counties. He was appointed District Court Judge for Garfield County in 2009 and he stayed in that role until his retirement in 2017.
During the final years of his career and following his retirement, John and Eileen wintered in Mesa, Ariz., where John became an ace tennis player and honed his golf game. They made many dear friends over the years and thoroughly enjoyed their time in the sun and the endless happy hours. During his life, John was an avid hunter and fisherman and looked forward to his yearly deer hunt with his son.
John is survived by his wife of almost 51 years, Eileen Henry; son and wife, John and Chelsey Henry; and daughter and husband, Jessica and Brian Mennenga. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ted and Sivilla Henry; brother, Robert Henry; and brother, Larry Henry.
He has been cremated and a family celebration of life will be held in the spring.
Carman Rae (Sanders) Dennis
Carman Rae Dennis passed away Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022, at Deaconess Hospital in Spokane surrounded by her family, who loved her dearly.
Carman was born June 26, 1949, to Roy and Barbara Sanders in Pomeroy. She was the second youngest with several brothers and sisters. Carman went on to marry Gordon Beckner in June 1966 and had two daughters, Tiffany Lynn and Kimberly Ann, then later divorced.
She began her career as a grain inspector at Lewiston Grain Inspection and continued to work for a few different elevators in Idaho, South Dakota, and Washington before retiring from Columbia Grain in Clarkston in 2013. She loved her job and everyone she was blessed to work with in her career of 40-plus years.
After finding the love of her life, Duane Dennis, they were married May 16, 2009, in Las Vegas and was blessed to get another daughter, Jennifer Dennis. Carman loved going camping and four-wheeling with her husband and sweet little Yorkie, Hannah. If they weren’t at their home in Clarkston, you could find them at their second home in Joseph, Ore., or in the mountains.
She is survived by her husband, Duane Dennis; daughter and son-in-law, Tiffany and Timothy Roth; daughter and son-in-law, Kimberly and Shane Blamires; daughter Jennifer Dennis; granddaughter Kristina Keener and husband Eric Keener; grandson Andrew Lindsley; granddaughter Kaitlyn Blamires; granddaughter Jordan Roth; granddaughter Brianna Blamires; grandson Logan Kleinman; granddaughter Devan Kleinman; one great-granddaughter Kaylin Cecelia Kenner; and several siblings.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Barbara Sanders; several siblings; and grandson Kasey Theophil Roth. A memorial and celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Lynn Marie (Watson) Greene
Lynn Marie Watson Greene passed away unexpectedly at her home Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022, at the age of 77.
She was born to Ralph and Evelyn (Kimble) Watson on Sept. 10, 1945. She was delivered by a midwife in Pomeroy. She grew up in the farming community of Mayview in Pomeroy and enjoyed living on the family farm. Her family was very involved in the Pomeroy Christian Church, where she was in Jobs Daughters. She took piano lessons and was a member of 4-H in food and clothing. She attended school in Pomeroy and graduated from high school in 1963. She loved being a Pomeroy Pirate cheerleader in junior high and high school and enjoyed all the games. She attended college for one year at Eastern Washington College (now EWU) in secretarial studies.
She married her high school sweetheart, Billy E. Greene, in Coeur d'Alene in 1964. The marriage ended in divorce in 2000. Together they had two children: a son, Kenneth, and a daughter, Kimberly. She was a homemaker and mother when her children were growing up and later worked as a medical receptionist at Southway Internists in Lewiston, for 24 years. After retirement she volunteered at the Asotin County Food Bank and Tri-State Memorial Hospital.
She was preceded in death by her mother and father.
She is survived by her son, Ken (Molly) Greene, of Meridian, and daughter Kim, (David) Burt, of Genesee; granddaughters Brittney and Courtney Burt, and Bekah and Rachel Johnson; grandson Derek Burt; and brother Dennis (Shirley) Watson.
Memorials may be made in her name to the Lewis Clark Animal Shelter or to a charity of your choice.
She will be buried at the Vineland Cemetery in Clarkston with a graveside service and reception at a later date this spring [2023].
Carlene Pawlik
Carlene Mae (Swanson) Pawlik, 98, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022, at Memory Manor in Pomeroy, surrounded by loving family. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for her sweet smile and positive outlook.
Carlene was preceded in death by her husband of 69 years, Hugo, and sons Jerry and Christopher. She is survived by daughters Kathy (Ron) Dixon, Susan (Bill) Thurmond, Carla (Keith) Danielson, and Marti (Neil) Natwick.
A celebration of life is scheduled for April 1. Richardson-Brown Funeral Home of Pomeroy is in charge of arrangements.
Barbara Joan McKeirnan Kimble
Barbara Joan McKeirnan Kimble was born Nov. 1, 1934, and passed away Friday, Oct. 28, 2022, just short of her 88th birthday.
Barbara was born to John J. and Florence Wilhelm McKeirnan on the family farm just east of Pomeroy in the family home. Barbara grew up riding horses and tending the vegetable and rose gardens. Every fall, she and her friends would make apple cider.
Graduating from Pomeroy High School, Barbara was active in school activities, helping to decorate for school dances.
Barbara and classmate Paul Kimble married Feb. 22, 1953, in Pomeroy and worked on the Kimble family farm until moving to Colton, where they leased a farm and started a family. In 1960, Barbara and Paul moved back to Pomeroy to the Kuhl Ridge farm along with their four kids.
While raising a family and helping Paul on the farm, Barbara started attending nursing school in Lewiston, graduating in 1971 with an LPN degree in nursing, studying at night while everyone was done for the day.
One of Barbara’s highest awards was receiving Pomeroy’s Citizen of the Year in 1984.
After almost 70 years of marriage and all of life’s ups and downs, Barbara passed away just two weeks after her loving husband Paul, with only faint memories of life before the 70 years of being together.
Paul and Barbara had four children: Paul Jr. (Pam) — Kyle (Carrie) Kimble, Jay (Briana) Kimble, Dawn Purcell; Jennie Kimble — Tracy (Tim) Gutman, Chad Thayer, Michelle (Justin) Schmidt; Coyzet Lueck — Brandy (Peter) Wigen, Toni Grow; and Christy Novotny (Vince) — Paul Vernon (Julia) Novotny.
Paul and Barbara have nine grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.
Barbara is preceded in death by her loving husband Paul; her parents, John and Florence McKeirnan; her youngest daughter, Christy Kimble Novotny; and her brother Johnny McKeirnan.
A private family memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorials may be given to the Pomeroy FFA Alumni, P.O. Box 950 Pomeroy, WA 99347.
Paul Ernest Kimble Sr.
Paul Ernest Kimble Sr. was born June 8, 1934, and passed Oct. 14, 2022.
On June 8, 1934, a son was born to Max and Delora Kimble. They raised Paul on a farm south of Pomeroy. Early in Paul’s life, the family moved to a farm just outside of Pomeroy, where he attended elementary and high school.
In high school, Paul was a leader. He was the Future Farmers of America president and Associated Student Body president his senior year. All through school, Paul raised and showed Hereford cattle at the Garfield County Fair, Spokane Junior Livestock Show and the Portland International Livestock Show.
Paul played football and really enjoyed watching his grandkids and great-grandkids play football.
Paul and Barbara McKeirnan were married Feb. 22, 1953, and they worked on the Kimble family farm along with part-time jobs.
Paul, Barbara and their small family moved to Colton to farm a place at the top of Steptoe canyon. After three years, they moved back to Pomeroy and farmed on Kuhl Ridge and on Valentine Ridge.
Paul and Barbara had as many as 12 dairy cows that they milked until about 1965 and always had beef cattle. In 1970, the family moved back to his childhood home where he worked on the community project “Century Farms.” He was a member of the Pomeroy Christian Church and served as a deacon and treasurer for several years. Paul loved collecting old tools and barbed wire and has a large collection of both.
Paul and Barbara had four children, Paul Jr. (Pam) and children Kyle (Carrie) Kimble, Jay (Briana) Kimble, Dawn Purcell; Jennie Kimble and children Tracy (Tim) Gutman, Chad Thayer, Michelle (Justin) Schmidt; Coyzet Lueck and children Brandy (Peter) Wigen, Toni Grow; Christy Novotny (Vince) and children Paul Vernon (Julia) Novotny.
Paul and Barbara have nine grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Max and Delora Kimble, his sister Janet Kimble Scoggin and his youngest daughter Christy Kimble Novotny.
A service will take place at 11 a.m., Oct 19, at the Pomeroy City Cemetery, followed by lunch at the Pomeroy Church of the Nazarene.
Memorials may be given to Pomeroy FFA Alumni PO Box 950, Pomeroy WA 99347.
Robert Dixon
Robert Dixon was born April 11, 1939, at home in Pomeroy to Clayton and Helena Dixon, joining his brother Eugene and his sister Sally. He was premature and his father created an incubator out of a shoe box in a dresser drawer. He passed away September 19, 2022.
As a teen, he began driving combines during wheat harvest and working for Green Giant during pea harvest. He saved his money and eventually moved to the Tri-Cities to attend CBC and worked at Tiny’s Utoco in Pasco and then sold cars at a dealership. He met Freda, his wife of 61 years, at the A&W Drive in in Richland
Robert went to work for Green Giant year-round and was transferred to various plants in various cities as he moved up the ladder of success. Their son Greg was born in Grandview and their son Ivan in Olympia. He was eventually assigned to their mushroom plant in Niles, Michigan. While in Michigan he was president of Jr Achievement, served on the United Way Board and was a Cub Scout Leader. After five years of being away from his native state and families and friends, he went to work for Lamb Weston in Connell as the Human Resource Manager.
Robert was involved in the Connell community becoming a volunteer firefighter (for 31 years) eventually becoming president of Lions, President of Chamber of Commerce and eventually Man of the Year.
For relaxation he liked to salmon fish at Ilwaco with friends and deer hunt every fall at Grand Coulee and almost always brought home our winter meat.
After retirement he was Kadlec Cancer Resource Center Supervisor helping to create, organize, recruit and train volunteers to assist newly diagnosed cancer patients. As a cancer survivor himself this was something he related to closely. One of his many health challenges was Parkinson’s, which was diagnosed 15 years ago.
Robert is survived by his wife Freda and sons Greg and Ivan. He is also survived by Freda's sister Linda who, as a six-year-old, was the flower girl at their wedding and forever after Robert's little sister. He is survived by brothers-in-law Joe (Judi), Paul (Doc) and his brother Eugene's widow, Sharon, stepsister Meribeth, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to a local animal shelter.
Annabelle Lee (Galer) Jardee
Annabelle Jardee passed away peacefully, Sept. 28, 2022, at home surrounded by her family in Pomeroy.
Annabelle was born May 2, 1929, to Emmett Galer and Stella [Shaw] Galer in Springfield, S.D., but grew up in Nebraska. Her father was a homesteader near Verdel, Neb. He owned and operated a paddle-wheeled ferry boat called the "The Fawn" on the Missouri River. He also was a farmer who grew corn. During the wintertime, they would cut blocks of ice from the river and take it to town, and would sell it to the cold storage.
Annabelle worked for Woolworth's in Yankton, S.D., at the candy counter, and there in Yankton, she married John Jardee in 1954. They moved to several locations for John's job as a carpenter/millwright, on hydroelectric dams from South Dakota through Montana and to the Pacific Northwest.
Annabelle and her family moved to Pomeroy from Fort Smith, Mont., in 1966. She attended cosmetology college and became a hairdresser. She worked at Millie's in Clarkston. She opened her own place of business, a hair salon called "The Beauty Cottage," in 1973 in Pomeroy.
Annabelle was a member of the Pomeroy Lutheran Church. She also was a member of the VFW Women's Auxiliary. She enjoyed helping at Pomeroy Food Bank and Second Harvest's Food Truck with food distributions. She enjoyed cooking for her family, no one went hungry. She enjoyed sewing and visiting with family. She was a Camp Fire Girl leader and a Cub Scout den mother.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John; and her three brothers, Elden, Jim, and Gerry Galer. She is survived by her son, Jay Jardee; her daughter, Judy Breithaupt; and her two grandsons, Justin and Jay Breithaupt.
Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, 2022, at St. Peters Episcopal Church in Pomeroy. A graveside service will follow at 2:30 p.m. at the Pomeroy City Cemetery. Memorial donations should go to the Garfield County Food Bank or to Second Harvest/Spokane.
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Phillip James Schilling
Phil Schilling, born December 4,1937 in Lewiston, ID, and lived in Pomeroy, WA. He was the first of five children and lived in Pomeroy until he graduated from high school. He attended college at Washington State University where he studied criminology, but decided to enlist in the US Marine Corps.
On a break from college he visited his uncle Phil in Colorado where he met and fell in love with Colleen Buckley. They were married on September 4, 1961 in a snowstorm that left three feet. He was stationed at Camp Pendleton and in Hawaii for his tour of duty in the Marine Corps. Upon his discharge he went to work for the Colorado State Patrol in Golden as an Intermediate Typist. He was a member of Class 63-2 and was assigned to Loveland upon graduation. He served his entire career in Loveland, was promoted to Technician in July 1974, and retired as a Corporal in 1996.
He is preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Cecilia Schilling, his youngest brother Chuck, his sister Mary, and his brother “Bud” Schilling.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Colleen; his son Mickey and his wife Kaylene, grandsons Sean and Ryan, and by his daughter Arleen.
Kenneth Ledgerwood
Kenneth “Coug” Ledgerwood died Saturday, September 3, 2022, in a kayaking accident. He was in one of his favorite places, the Salmon River, surrounded by the people he loved most.
Kenneth was born March 1, 1954, in Pomeroy to George Ledgerwood and Dorothy (Prater) Ledgerwood. He attended Holy Rosary School and Pomeroy High School, graduating in 1972. After high school, he graduated from WyoTech with a degree in automotive mechanics. After returning home, Kenny went to work for Able Automotive and McKeirnan Hardware. In 1976, he went to work for a farmer, Bud Mills in Tekoa. In 1978, he moved home to Pomeroy, where he farmed with his brother Steve Ledgerwood and father George Ledgerwood. On June 9, 1979, he married Debbie Sliter and had two children, Luke and Kallie Ledgerwood. The farm transitioned to Ken and Debbie in the mid-1980s and his son joined the operation in 2002. Kenny continued to farm alongside his son until he took on a semi-retirement role in 2020.
He was a friend to all, a bit of a renegade, and a risk-taker. Ken and his wife, Debbie, had several different business ventures throughout his life, which included managing and building FSA office buildings, buying and operating a motel, opening a restaurant and even a short stint in stock car racing. He enjoyed playing pool, throwing horseshoes (in his younger years), watching NASCAR, hunting, spending time with his family and ketchup.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Debbie, and their two children, Luke (Nichol) Ledgerwood and Kallie (Thomas) Warren. He is also survived by his mom, Dorothy Kausche; brother Steve (Holly) Ledgerwood; and his three sisters, Barb (Dave) Donaldson, Karen Kastl and Molly (Matt) Dixon. He was also known as the proud “Pa Coug” to four grandsons, Blake, Chase, Jake and Roy. He was preceded in death by father, George Ledgerwood.
To honor Kenny’s memory, a celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, September 10, [2022], at the Spinners Maple Hall in Pomeroy.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pomeroy Spinners Club c/o Larry Ledgerwood, PO Box 745, Pomeroy, WA 99347.
Barbara Jane Grimmick
BARBARA Jane GRIMMICK, age 88, of Pomeroy, Washington passed away on Sunday, August 28, 2022. BARBARA was born June 8, 1934.
Melvin "Mel" Gerald Mings
Melvin "Mel" Gerald Mings, 88, passed away peacefully August 28, 2022, at the Walla Walla Veterans Home. Melvin was born July 8, 1934, in Dayton Washington to Henry and Ruth Mings. He attended school in Dayton until entering the Army in 1956 where he completed and received his high school diploma. After completion of his service in the Army he returned to Dayton where he worked at the County Road Department on the rock crusher. He held other various jobs throughout his working years.
In 1955 he married his high school sweetheart Diane Black, and they share three children. The late Gary Mings of Vancouver WA, the late Jimmy Mings of Great Falls, MT and Melinda (Norise) Massenburg of Vancouver, WA. They later divorced. Melvin is survived by the love of his life Judy. They married and have two sons together Jason (Melanie) Mings of Dayton, WA and Jesse Mings of Pomeroy. He gained bonus children, Jim Savage of Prescott, WA, Joe Savage of Prescott, WA, Josh (Lori) Savage of Burbank, WA and Jodi (Ken) McElroy of Burbank, WA. He is survived by siblings Ray Dean Mings of Prescott, WA and Ronnie Mings of Waitsburg, WA and numerous nieces and nephews.
Melvin enjoyed hunting and going for rides in the Blue Mountains, he even drew a big bull tag and was able to fill it. One of his favorite things to do was spotlighting and hunting with his hound dogs. In 1980 he won a trophy for Washington's largest raccoon weighing in at 36 pounds! He spent lots of time fishing on the Snake River and camping with family and friends. Melvin was an avid Mariners and Zags fan and you could find him kicked back in his easy chair watching the game.
Melvin is preceded in death by his parents Henry and Ruth Mings, brothers, Cecil and Glenn Mings, sister Janet Pomeroy Swingler, sons Gary and Jimmy Mings, grandson Justin Savage and son in law Norise Massenburg.
A celebration of life will be held in Dayton at the Fairgrounds Youth Building on September 24, 2022, at 1:00 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to the Blue Mountain Eagles Aerie #2618.
H. Jack Smith
M. Jack Smith, age 87, of Burnsville, MN, formerly of Camp Hill, passed away Tuesday, August 16, 2022, with family at his side. Jack was a loving husband, proud father, grandfather, and great grandfather.
He was born and raised in southeastern Washington, the youngest of three children to John and Doris Smith. Jack graduated from Pomeroy High School and worked from an early age, including summers in the wheat fields surrounding town to pay for college. He earned a business degree from Washington State University, where he met his beloved wife Mary through a mutual friend. After college, Jack taught middle school math in Cedar Rapids, IA, before working for Collins Radio Company there.
Jack, Mary, and their family moved east for Jack to work at Berg Electronics/DuPont. They made their home and their lives in Camp Hill for 49 years, well past Jack's retirement from DuPont. Throughout his life, Jack was a joiner and a leader and served many organizations, including the West Shore School Board and the parish councils at Sacred Heart and the Cathedral in Harrisburg. He was also a long-time member of St. Theresa.
Jack was fortunate to see the world working for DuPont and, later, with Mary. He enjoyed the company of good friends, golf, playing bridge, woodworking, Sunday drives, annual family vacations on Minnesota lakes, and retreats with church friends at the Weston Priory in Vermont.
Jack is survived by his sister, Corleen Fisher of Clarkston Mary, his wife of 65 years, three sons, Mike (Jeanne) of Eden Prairie, MN, Steve (Jackie) of Bethel Park, PA, Bryan (Erin) of Fort Wayne, IN, and two daughters, Linda Saxton of Eden Prairie, MN, and Betsy (Larry) Selig of Wayland, MA, and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00am on Friday, September 9th, preceded by visitation at 10:00, at Mary, Mother of the Church in Burnsville, MN. Interment will follow on Saturday, September 10th, at Woodlawn Cemetery in Winona, MN. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Park Nicollet Foundation, Struthers Parkinson's Center program, where Jack received treatment, or to Mary, Mother of the Church, Burnsville, MN.
Patricia Adele (Rich) Boyd
Patricia Adele Boyd, 72, of Clarkston, passed away Thursday, August 4, 2022.
Patricia was born August 30, 1949, to Max and Juanita Rich in Vancouver.
After graduating from Pomeroy High School, she attended Kinman Business University in Spokane, then married Delbert G. Boyd on Dec. 23, 1971, in Pomeroy and went on to have two boys, Daniel and Darin.
As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints she loved family history and genealogy. She also loved to scrapbook, craft, and cook. She lived for her sister trips, camping and the ocean.
Pat is survived by sons Daniel (Jamie) Boyd and Darin (Christy) Boyd; grandchildren Hunter, Jacob (Danielle), Dakota, MiKayla (Craig) and Dylan (Wendy); great-grandchildren Anna Jo and Easton; sister Margaret (Steve) Kazda; nephew Ken Kazda; great-nephews Caden and Colton; and many other family members.
Pat is preceded in death by husband Delbert Boyd; parents Max and Juanita Rich; brother James Rich; grandparents; and many aunts and uncles.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, August 11, at the Pomeroy City Cemetery.
William James Hastings
William “Bill” James Hastings was born October 13, 1941, to Arthur and Florress (Ogden) Hastings. On July 28, 2022, Bill left this life on earth.
Bill, the first-born son to Art and Florress, grew up at Central Ferry on the family orchard and farm. Peaches and watermelon were two of the most famous crops from there.
He attended grade school at the Central Ferry school house. After he was in the higher grades, he rode the bus to Pomeroy to attend school in town. He grew up with some great friends in the area.
He started his farming career with a local family who had him live in their bunk house; they had remained close friends for a lifetime. When they were forced to sell the orchard to prepare for the dams, in the early '60s, the Hastings family purchased a small ranch a few miles from Starbuck. With the Tucannon River running through the property, there was plenty of water for the crops, cattle, chickens, sheep, and hogs. He ranched and farmed the land there until the late '70s when it was sold.
He moved to Dayton and he worked at a grain terminal at Central Ferry for a few years. He then moved to the upper Tucannon and tried his hand at his own trucking business and from there moved to Pomeroy.
From trucking he worked for a few different companies around the state and finally ended up in Oakesdale working for a rancher-farmer. Bill loved ranching and farming. His farming career made a complete 360 as his last farming adventure was where he started his first, just feet away from that bunk house. Bill had a passion for gold mining, it was in his blood.
Bill will be missed dearly by all of his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, numerous family, and friends. If you knew Bill, you knew just how much he loved and worried about his children and their families.
There will be two graveside services for Bill: September 5 at 11 p.m. and October 1, 2022 at 12 p.m. at the Pomeroy City Cemetery. If you are unable to attend one try to make it to the other.
Bill's family asks that instead of flowers, donations be made in his name to the Eastern Washington Agricultural Museum P.O. Box 326, Pomeroy, Washington 99347.
Don Henry Richardson
Don Henry Richardson passed away July 21, 2022, in Pomeroy Washington, succumbing to Lymphoma. Born May 2, 1933, in Portland, Oregon, to Walter Vassar Richardson and Mabel Morse Richardson, Don attended Portland area schools, graduating from Lincoln High School in 1951, serving in the US Army during the Korean War era, and then attended Portland State College.
Don joined Trailways Bus System as a driver, and traveled through 48 states including 9 trips to Alaska in his 13 year career. Don was in Alaska driving for Trailways during the March 27, 1964, 9.2 magnitude Great Alaskan earthquake, and he successfully transported his passengers to the lower 48 states in the aftermath.
Don married Patricia Anne Perkins on February 14, 1964 in Portland Oregon and to them was born two children, Jeanine Kathleen and Robert Walter. Don spent summers during high school working on the family farm in Pomeroy Washington, and in 1973 the family moved to Pomeroy where Don took over operations of the Richardson Family Farm. Don and Pat later divorced.
Don made the most of winter downtime on the farm, and obtained and modified several buses over the years. Don’s pride and joy was a 1961 GMC 4106, formerly known as Trailways Bus 250, which was one of the buses he frequently drove during his career with Trailways. Don converted the bus to a private coach he fondly referred to as “The Blue Mountain Trail”. Don enjoyed sharing The Blue Mountain Trail with the community making many trips over the years including traveling to Spokane for the Shrine Hospital Dedication, to Walla Walla for musicals, to Pullman for Washington State Junior Miss/Young Woman of the Year competitions, wrestling tournaments, McCall Winter Carnival, Las Vegas for the National Finals Rodeo, Ashland with the College English students, Advanced Biology student trip, and serving as the official transportation for the wedding parties of his nephew Jeff Anderson and niece Sandra Anderson Robinson.
At various times in Don’s life he was active in the Al Kader Shrine Club, the Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite, Lewiston Elks Club, South Eastern Washington Agricultural Museum, Cranker Club, and was a lifetime member of the Pomeroy Future Farmers of America Alumni Association. Don enjoyed driving school buses for the Pomeroy School District, and was a member of the Pomeroy Christian Church.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Vas and Mabel Richardson, brother Morse Richardson, and son-in-law Daniel Kern. Don is survived by his sister Diane Richardson Anderson (Stewart), daughter Jeanine Kathleen Richardson Kern, son Robert Walter Richardson (Kathleen), 5 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.
A memorial service will be scheduled in Pomeroy at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to: Garfield County Hospital District, c/o HUGS, 66 N Sixth St, Pomeroy WA 99347 or Pomeroy Future Farmers of America Alumni Association, c/o Kyle Kimble, 442 Smith Gulch Rd, Pomeroy WA 99347
Donna Lee (Trescott) Latham
On Wednesday, July 20, 2022, Donna Lee Latham found eternal peace and restoration with her Lord. Donna was born on August 29, 1937, to Lester and Eleanor Trescott, at home in Pomeroy, Washington. She grew up in Pomeroy, a small farming community, where she attended the Christian Church and was baptized at the age of 12 on January 15, 1950. After high school Donna went to Kinman Business School in Spokane, Washington earning her Secretarial Science Degree in 1956. While in business school, she met a young Airman at a local dance and later would marry him (John Latham) on February 1, 1958.
From Pomeroy, Donna and John would move for John's work to Dyess, Texas; Rapid City, South Dakota; settling in Merritt Island, Florida, in 1963, where they started a family. In 1969 John was recruited by Disney, and in 1972, the family moved to Pine Hills, Florida, to be closer to work. They would later move to Clermont, Florida, in 1995 to retire.
Donna was a life-long learner; she valued education and would go back to school in 1973 at Valencia Community College, where she earned her AA in April of 1980. She would continue taking classes whenever she could at UCF, working towards a Business Administration degree. Shortly after earning her AA, Donna would also complete her Real Estate License and begin a successful career with Watson Realty.
Donna had a passion for serving in her Church, traveling, and music. Donna started taking piano lessons in 1996 every week and continued for over 20 years. She would later share this time with both of her grandchildren while they were in school, to introduce them to music and to have a special day with them each week after school.
Donna was preceded in death by her devoted husband, John C. Latham of 61 years, her parents, Lester and Eleanor Trescott, and older sister Betty Black (Kirby).
She leaves behind her son Michael Latham (Carissa), daughter Nicole Latham-Bechhold (Ronnie), grandson Andrew Latham, granddaughter Samantha Latham, sister Mary May (Sid), her extended family, nieces, nephews.
Services wereheld July 30, 2022, at Highland Funeral Home, Apopka, Florida with graveside following. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Bright Focus Foundation at brightfocus.org.
Elvin Eulis “Sonny” Harper
Sonny Harper passed away at home with his wife and family at his side. He was ready to meet his Lord, whom he has loved all his life.
Sonny was born Feb. 8, 1935, in Elk Springs, Colo., in a dug-out his family called home at that time. He attended grade school in Dinosaur, Colo., and high school in Rangley, Colo. After his father passed away in a mine explosion, he quit school and went to work to help support his family.
Later, he moved to Horseshoe Bend, Idaho. One night, while attending a high school basketball game, he met Peggy Jean Valentine, who at the time was a cheerleader for Garden Valley High School. They were planning their wedding when he received his draft papers. They were married April 29, 1958, in Crouch, Idaho. He left two weeks later for basic training in Fort Ord, Calif.
After five months, he was transferred to Aberdeen, Md., and then four months after arriving in Aberdeen, he received orders to go to the atomic proving grounds outside of Las Vegas. Sonny and Peggy lived at Nellis Air Force Base in southern Nevada where he drove the bus to the atomic bomb testing sites. Their first two daughters were born while he was stationed at Nellis, and their third daughter was born in Rexburg, Idaho.
After serving his country, Sonny spent many years as a heavy equipment operator, building roads throughout Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. He also worked to relocate all the roads and railroads before the dams were built in Washington. Sonny chose to quit working construction when his daughters started grade school, and the family settled in Pomeroy, where the girls were raised. Sonny worked for Dye Seed Ranch while residing in Pomeroy.
Sonny enjoyed hunting, fishing and trap shooting and after retirement spent his days golfing with many of his friends. He loved all his grandchildren and enjoyed watching them participate in their many school activities. Sonny and Peggy enjoyed doing many things together, from working in the garden, camping with friends, yard work and sitting on the back deck. Many years they traveled and spent winters in Parker, Arizona.
Sonny was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, and two sisters.
Sonny is survived by his wife of 64 years, Peggy Harper; a sister, Rosemary; two brothers, Wayne and Sid; his three daughters, Shannon (Ron) Harrison of Pomeroy, Brenda (Bud) Brown of Clovis, N.M. and Kristy (Mike) Petross of Grand Junction, Colorado; grandchildren Elijah, Rachael (Ernie), Michael (Larissa), Sara (Daniel) Nick, Jaclynn (Zach), Allison (Dalton), Melissa, Bandie (Michael), Callie (Ron) and Justus (David); 15 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.
A graveside service was held September 3, 2022, in Pomeroy.
--The Lewiston Tribune, July 17, 2022
Margaret Jane Corey
Margaret Jane Corey, age 95, of Pomeroy passed away on Tuesday, June 14, 2022. Margaret was born October 28, 1926.
James Edward DeShirley
The family of James DeShirley announces his passing June 22, 2022, at the age of 74. Jim was born in Hood River on July 11, 1947, to Claude and RuthAnn DeShirley. He spent his childhood in Pomeroy, and graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1965.
He served in the US Air Force and married Barbara Feider in 1970. Jim worked for BPA as an Electrical Engineer in the Portland area for many years. He was also a volunteer for the Boy Scouts of America.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara; and his children, Jennifer (Lee) Evans and Jonathon (Lori) DeShirley; granddaughters, Elisabeth Evans and Chloe DeShirley.
His funeral was held July 8, 2022, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Vancouver, Wash.
Jason George Kuhn
Jason George Kuhn died Thursday, June 9, 2022, in Yakima at the age of 83.
Jason is survived by his sisters, Lenore Kuhn, of Clarkston, and (Gary) and Karen Huntington, of Pomeroy; his cousin, Alice and (Wally) Roberts; his life partner and love of his life for 30 years, Patricia Wiener, of Phoenix; his son, Mikel and (Linda) Kuhn; and his grandchildren, Jonathan, Kathleen, Jayden and Alecia. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Kathleen Kuhn, of Pomeroy; his first wife, Eva Joanne Mikel, of Pateros, Wash.; and his son, Ben Kuhn, of Seattle.
Jason was born Oct. 18, 1938, in Pomeroy. He graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1956 and went on to attend Washington State University, where he graduated in 1962 with a Bachelor of Science in soil mechanics/geology.
Jason and his sisters enjoyed growing up on the Kuhn brothers Hereford Ranch. He was a good-natured brother who liked to tease his two sisters often and play practical jokes.
In college, Jason met Eva Joann Mikel, married her and had two children, Mikel and Ben. They lived in Phoenix for 17 years, then divorced. Jason spent 38 years with Perkin Elmer Corp. in the spectroscopy division of sales. Jason spent the rest of his life in Phoenix practicing his favorite discipline: karate. He was a black belt in judo and a third-degree black belt in Shotokan karate. He was highly respected and loved by his karate friends. He loved hiking, biking, four-wheeling, RV-ing and adventuring in the desert. Jason was a world traveler, but was particularly fond of rural Mexico. He traveled for the last 20 years with his partner, Patricia Wiener. Jason was an avid photographer who loved taking pictures and shared them with those he loved in his annual Christmas letter. Jason was loved and admired by his surviving family and friends.
A graveside service was held June 17, 2022, for family at the Pomeroy City Cemetery.
Lee M. Flerchinger
Lee M. Flerchinger slipped quietly away on Tuesday, May 31, 2022. He was born November 7, 1928, in Pomeroy to Orville E. and Alice E. (Hooley) Flerchinger. He graduated high school in Pomeroy and worked on the family farm until he married Peggy Udine Johnson April 24, 1951. They moved to their own farm in Asotin, where they had three children, two daughters and a son.
In 1963, Lee decided to move to Dayton and created his own farm machinery business, selling and repairing farm equipment. In 1968, he moved to the Lewiston area, where he worked for the Ed McCann farms, was a mechanic at Twin City Foods, independent trucker and worked for his brother Marcus. He was multi-talented from design to implementation. Lee also worked as a city engineer for the City of Kendrick. After retiring, he never lost the farming bug — he loved to have a garden.
Lee and Peggy divorced in September 1976. This is when he learned about and joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He found what he was missing in his life and was very active in the Church.
In July 1978, he met Rae Von Skeem and they were married two months later. Lee’s service in the Church included commercial cannery specialist, bishopric counselor, Primary teacher, Scout Master, bishop and he was also a temple ordinance worker for 10 years. In 2005, Lee and his wife served a two-year mission to the Accra Ghana Temple. After returning home, he served a one-year mission for FamilySearch answering family history questions remotely online.
Lee was preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Alice Flerchinger, his brother Marcus, sister-in-law Ilene Flerchinger, niece Susie Carter, son-in-law Mike Myers and brother-in-law, Ted Shrum.
Lee is survived by his wife, Rae at their home in Clarkston, sister Connie Shrum of Medical Lake, children Mollie Flerchinger of Winchester, Becky Myers of Kooskia, and Dan Flerchinger of Nine Mile Falls. He had six grandchildren, Casey (Laci) Myers, Matt (Tracey) Myers, Angie Flerchinger Lopez, Andrea Szwed, Kathleen Szwed and Elliott Flerchinger. Lee also had six great-grandchildren; Bass, Megan, Maggie, Decker, Mila and Sia.
Graveside services were held June 2, 2022, at the Pomeroy City Cemetery.
Hallard Donald White, Sr.
Hallard Donald White Sr. age 83 passed away peacefully, April 7, 2022 at the Veteran's Home in Walla Walla, due to complications from a stroke in November, 2021.
Hallard was born June 23, 1938 in Perdido, Alabama, to the late Seymour and Celeste Bryars-White. He was the ninth child of 10. He was preceded in death by brothers Wheeler White, Charlie White, Bradley White, Doug White, and sisters, Louis White-Smith, Fay White-Smith, Laura May White-Smith, Jackie White-Sims, Geraldine White-Redmond.
He enlisted in the Army when he was 18 years old and served for almost seven years. Once home, he met and married Peggy Wilson of Bay Minette, Alabama. They had four children that they raised in various places while he worked for the Corps of Engineers. He finally landed his family in Pomeroy in 1980 and the couple later divorced.
After he retired, he traveled to Scotland, Ireland, Germany, Portugal, and numerous other destinations. He moved to Walla Walla in 2011 to be near family for help with his care.
He is survived by daughter Paula Tetrick (Wayne) of Pomeroy, son Hallard White Jr. (Michelle) of Pullman, daughter, Rhonda White of Bay Minette, Alabama, and daughter, Kimberly Ruchert (Jeremy). He had 11 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. He will be taken to his final resting place by his children, and laid to rest next to his parents at Bryars-McGill Cemetery in Perdido, Alabama.
There will be a Celebration of Life/Family Reunion in Alabama at a later date to be announced.
Wendell Dean Johnson
Dean, as he preferred to be called, passed away Sunday, April 3, 2022, at Garfield County Memorial Hospital. Dean was born Sept. 27, 1933, to Carl and Myrtle Black Johnson in Pomeroy.
Growing up, Dean lived at the bottom of Casey Creek on the Snake River. He enjoyed swimming, fishing, and rowing a boat across the river to attend school at Almota when he was 11 and 12 years old. Later, he attended school in Pomeroy where he played football, basketball and baseball. Dean excelled at football, earning the Alumni Trophy and the Block & Tackle Trophy. Dean also sang the lead in several operettas in high school.
Dean met Shirley E. Graham while she was spending the night with a friend from school. He was there playing tag football with the brothers of her friend. They were married Oct. 6, 1952, in Lewiston at the home of Dean’s aunt and uncle. He was attending Washington State University in Pullman at that time, studying geology. Dean and Shirley have four daughters, Marcia, Pam, Julie and Susan.
Returning back home on the Snake River, he worked for his dad in the fruit orchard hauling and selling fruit and produce as far north as St. Maries, eventually leaving the river and working for several local farmers. In 1960, Dean went to work for Dye Seed Ranch where he learned agronomy and became the field representative. He retired 50 years later.
Dean had several hobbies and interests. He collected parts and pieces of old toy cars and trucks for rebuilding and giving to neighbors and to the grandkids. He also restored old cook stoves for many people over the years. Since growing up on a fruit orchard and gardening farm, he loved raising produce and selling or giving it away. Dean took up stained glass for several years, making lamps, Christmas ornaments and windows. He was an avid “rockhound,” and along with John Dye, Johnny Armstrong, Harold Graham and several others, started Garfield County Rockhounds.
Dean enjoyed traveling as long as he didn’t have to fly. The family loved camping and traveled and camped extensively throughout the Pacific Northwest and Western Canada. As a member of Clan Graham Society, he and Shirley enjoyed attending Highland Games and hosting clan tents at many locations in the Northwest.
His other interests included researching and helping to write a book about Garfield County century farms. Dean was his wife’s committee working on the Centennial Boulevard during the Washington State Centennial in 1986 to 1990.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Lewis; sister Helen; and a grandson, Nicholas Siglin. Dean is survived by his wife, Shirley; his sister, Mila Watt; his four daughters, Marcia (Tim) Baden, Pam (Ernie) Kimble, Julie (Gary) Long and Susan Sutliff; 13 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.
A service will take place at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Garfield County Museum in care of Muriel Bott or to the United Methodist Church in Pomeroy.
Robert Glaspie
Robert "Barber Bob" Glaspie passed away on March 26, 2022. He was born July 2, 1930 in Troup, Texas.
A Korean War veteran, Bob drove a tank and served in the military guard before receiving an honorable discharge and marrying Salina Gayle Holly Goodman in 1952. They later divorced and he married Mary Niles in 1975, who preceded him in death.
He lived a full life working as a barber for over forty years, operating the Central Ferry Store, and working for farmers in Garfield County. After retirement, he spent every summer sport reward fishing on the Snake River at Boyer Park.
Bob is survived by three daughters: Cathy Senkoff of Hobart, OK; Vickie (Al) Damron of Pomeroy; Jayne Scheckla of Colton, Oregon; and four stepchildren: Dusty (Liz) Niles of Pollock Pines, CA; Cheryl (Jim) Trewin of Bend; Terri (Don) LeFors of Nine Mile Falls; and Robert (Kris) Niles of Spokane, WA, 14 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. He was well loved and will be missed greatly.
Donald L. Horntvedt
Donald L. Horntvedt passed away peacefully March 22, 2022, at home in Kennewick with his three children by his side. He was born on July 5th 1941 in Pasco to Howard & Elizabeth Horntvedt. Don is survived by his sister, Karen Overholt, children, LaDonna (Brett) Smith, Lance (Sue) Horntvedt, Melissa (Lester) Mehrer and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Don was a proud member of Plumbers and Steamfitters Local Union 598 and a friend of Bill W's for 48 years. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 2, 2022 at 10am at Mueller's Tri-Cities Funeral Home, 1401 S. Union in Kennewick. There will be no viewing or grave side service and we will celebrate his life after the memorial service at the Tri-City Alano Club at 102 E Kennewick Ave, Kennewick WA 99336, between 11:30 and 1:30pm. Refreshments will be provided.
In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to Benton County PUD, Helping Hands, at P.O. Box 6270, 2721 W 10th Ave, Kennewick WA 99336 in Donald Horntvedt's name.
Leonard Julius "Bud" Schilling
Leonard Julius “Bud” Schilling passed away peacefully Monday, March 21, 2022, with his beautiful wife, two daughters and his dog, Devil, by his side.
A lifelong Pomeroy resident, Bud was born August 3, 1941, in Dayton to Clarence “Schill” and Cecelia (Schaefer) Schilling, the second of five children.
He attended the Holy Rosary Catholic School until eighth grade and Pomeroy High School, graduating in 1960.
Bud had a fairly typical childhood until a sledding accident left him with a dented skull, a long scar and his lovingly named “Devil Horn.” Not even Bud could win against the bumper of a 1940’s car. He missed the rest of that school year and even had to relearn how to walk. Bud was never allowed to participate in school sports or go swimming, though he was an expert doggy paddler later as an adult.
In 1963, tipped off by a local draft board member that his number was almost up, Bud enlisted in the U.S. Army so he would have a better say in what he wanted to do. He become one of the Army’s most elite, 101st Airborne Ranger — Green Beret — Special Forces — Screaming Eagles. After coming home from Vietnam, he was honorably discharged in 1966.
Returning home to Pomeroy, he helped care for his grandmother who was paralyzed by a stroke and worked several different jobs over the years. He even farmed family land during that magical time in the ’70s when wheat was more than $7 a bushel.
He quit farming and found his niche when he was hired at the Pomeroy Post Office, where he worked until his retirement. He had a smile and a nickname for everyone.
On a fateful night in January 1969, Bud was set up on a blind date with Marlane Hegi. That amazing woman became his beautiful bride June 12, 1970. They had two daughters, Marlana and Tammy.
A man of many talents and interests, some of his favorite things to do were shooting, finding mushrooms, fishing and finding new recipes to try. He always said the best recipes start with a pound of butter.
Bud was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Charles “Chuck” and his sister Mary. He is survived by his wife Marlane; daughters Marlana (Greg) Vendeland and Tammy (Richie) Vecchio; his brother Philip “Butch” (Colleen), his sister Phyllis (Jay) Jardee and his four grandchildren Nicholas Vendeland, Vegas, Richie and Vinny Vecchio.
There were no services on Bud's request
Daniel Moffett “Dan” Williams
Daniel Moffett “Dan” Williams was called Wednesday, March 9, 2022. Born to Winfrey and Mary Howard Williams on June 19, 1925, Dan spent his life growing wheat, barley and bluegrass, as well as maintaining a small herd of Hereford/Angus cattle (or as Dan called them, red cows and black cows) on the Williams Brothers Farm. He graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1943 and went on to study at Washington State College for two years, where he played golf under Jack Friel.
The oldest of two brothers, Dan left college to run the family farm during the war. In 1971, he and brother Lew were named Soil Conservationists of the Year by the Soil Conservation District, recognizing their early adoption of terraces to prevent erosion.
Dan married Evalyn Zurick on Armistice Day, November 11, 1950, and had four children. John, Scott, Paul and Lisa. After divorcing in 1965, he married Marie Jaspers in December 1968. Dan and Marie were married for nearly 51 years.
Dan was a hardworking, dedicated farmer, but his passions were for athletics and outdoor recreation of all kinds. He loved the local Pirates and even more so his Washington State Cougars. Dan was a season ticket holder for many years of both Cougar football and basketball. He was a near-scratch golfer his entire life and belonged to Clarkston Country Club for a few years before moving to the Lewiston Country Club. Dan won the club championship at Lewiston in 1969, as well as winning a couple of Sole-Survivor championships following the annual Wing Ding tournament. He loved the outdoors, was a bird hunter and one of the more knowledgeable mushroom hunters in the area. He was an avid and talented fisherman, whether it was off the coast of Ilwaco, steelhead on the Snake River, or rainbow in Pataha Creek and the lakes of the Tucannon.
Dan was preceded in death by his wife, Marie; his children Scott and Lisa; and his brother, Lewis. He is survived by his sons John (wife Melodee), of Marysville, Washington, and Paul, of Issaquah, Washington; his sister-in-law, Praxy Williams McIntyre (husband Ken); his nephew, Scott (wife Rochelle, children Cassidy and Jack), and niece, Leslie Williams; his four grandchildren, Whitney McGreevy, Curt (wife Marylou), Darrin (wife Tracy) and Ashlee (husband Jed Lubin); four great-grandchildren, Taryn and Tanna Williams, Isabelle Williams and Nathaniel Lubin-Williams; as well as a host of Brewer Jaspers in-laws, nephews and nieces.
The family wishes to thank the staff at Memory Manor for their care and compassion in Dan’s final years. They are planning a graveside celebration of life at 11 a.m. June 4, 2022, in the Pataha Flat Cemetery. They ask that in lieu of a memorial, to consider a donation to the Eastern Washington Agricultural Museum. Please send contributions to Eastern Washington Agricultural Museum, P.O. Box 326, Pomeroy, WA 99347.
Joshua Lee Hansen
Joshua Lee Hansen passed away on March 7, 2022. He was 43 years old. Josh was born in Deer Park, Wash., to John Lee Hansen and Nida Rae (Demand) Hansen on April 4, 1978, and spent his early years living in western Washington. His family then moved to Pomeroy when he was eight years old.
As a young adult, Josh spent several years living in the Portland area where he worked in the restaurant business. He quickly worked his way up to general manager of a popular franchise and devoted much time and energy to his work.
Josh returned to eastern Washington to be closer to his family and continued working in the restaurant industry for several more years before he had the opportunity to go into business with his father as a gunsmith and gun dealer. Josh obtained his FFL and soon became a regional expert in gunsmithing.
Beyond just humor, Josh was a kind and generous son, brother, uncle, and friend. Josh is survived by his mother, Nida Hansen; his father, John (Charlotte) Hansen; sister Shawna (John) Schafer, sister Kimberly Dudley, brother Joseph Hansen; nephews, Matthew Stevens, Jeffrey Stevens, and Trevin Schafer, and nieces, Brittany Maples and Zoe Stinson.
Please join Josh's family for a Celebration of Life, for a light meal, laughter, and memories at Pomeroy Spinners Maple Hall on Saturday, April 30 at 2 p.m.
Phillip James McKeirnan
Phillip James McKeirnan, 71, longtime Pullman resident, passed away March 1, 2022 at his home.
Phil was born October 1, 1950 in Pomeroy to Robert & Marian (Robertson) McKeirnan. He grew up in Pomeroy, Asotin, and Colfax until the family moved to Pullman while Phil was in the sixth grade. He graduated from Pullman High School and received his Associate degree from Spokane Falls Community College. Phil met Gloria Lobe in 1970 and they married in 1972. They later divorced.
Phil worked in the agricultural industry his entire life in one way or another. He worked for the family business, McKeirnan Brothers, seeing it through many transitions over the years; from fertilizer supplier, farming, farm equipment repair, to automotive parts & repair as well. Later in life Phil went to work for NuChem until his retirement in 2008. His life was built around farming and Phil enjoyed sharing stories and memories of his grandparent’s farm in Pomeroy. He belonged to the Pine Grove Grange for years in Albion and always enjoyed visiting with his many friends in town. Phil took great pride in his Ewartsville farm, caring for his horses, tinkering on his Caterpillar tractors, and fixing anything that needed repair.
He is survived by his son Robert (Kelci) McKeirnan; three daughters Jennifer McKeirnan; Jody (Jason) Munn; Mary McKeirnan; four siblings Alice Greer; Roger McKeirnan; Lois Gust; Suzanne Hagen and six grandchildren. Phil was preceded in death by his parents.
A service of celebration was planned for May, 2022. Corbeill Funeral Home of Pullman, WA has been entrusted with arrangements. The family suggests memorial donations to the National Parkinson’s Foundation.
Margaret Ann Killingsworth
Margaret Ann Killingsworth died February 24, 2022, at Lewiston Transitional Care of Cascadia.
Margaret was born to George and Lois VanBrocklin on Oct 13, 1927, at Leavenworth, Washington. While attending Washington State College in Pullman, she met her roomate’s brother, John Killingsworth. They were married on June 28th, 1947, and took over farming operations from John’s folks, Matt and Lucinda Killingsworth on Kirby Mayview Road. They had 2 daughters: RuthAnn (Smith) and Elaine (Fouty).
Margaret was active in several Pomeroy organizations and groups: Pomeroy United Methodist Church, Philomathean Home Ec Club, Philomathean Garden Club, and Grange. She actively participated in 4-H Club when her daughters were members. She was Garfield County Extension Aide for 10 years. Margaret spent many hours in the garden and sewing room. For several years she helped with Home Ec Club Fair Booth. She was appointed to the Hospital Board; she enjoyed it and learned a lot, but did not campaign for a second term.
Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of nearly 60 years John, and her younger brother, Roger. She is survived by her daughters RuthAnn Smith (Richard) and Elaine Fouty, a sister, Georgina King of Pea Ridge, Arkansas, and nieces and nephews.
No service will be held at this time. Margaret will be interred in Pomeroy City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pomeroy United Methodist Church, c/o Wayne Fitzsimmons, 1566 Hwy 12 E, Pomeroy, WA 99347, Pomeroy Senior Center, PO Box 23, Pomeroy, WA 99347 or Garfield Co Ambulance Fund, PO Box 69, Pomeroy, WA 99347.
William Liegh Koberstein
William “Bill” Liegh Koberstein (77) of Surprise, AZ passed away on Friday, February 18, 2022.
He was born in Colfax to Floyd and Mary Koberstein. He attended Pomeroy High School, graduating in 1962. Bill attended WSU (Washington State University) and EWU (Eastern Washington University). Bill was an avid golfer and bowler.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Karen (Atkins) Koberstein; son, Scott (Stephanie) and daughter, Kristy (Earnest); grandsons, Tylor, Garner, and Ryan; granddaughters, Trinity, Ariana, and Malia. He was looking forward to being a great-grandfather from Trinity.
A memorial service was held March 11, 2022, at Surprise Funeral Care.
James D. Herin
James D. Herin, 80, of Pomeroy, 80, of Pomeroy, died Monday, Feb. 14, 2022, at Tri-State Memorial Hospital in Clarkston.
Jim grew up in the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley before joining the United States Air Force in 1965. Following an honorable discharge, Jim returned home and met his wife, Karen. They were married in 1970 and moved to the Seattle area.
He is survived by his wife Karen; his daughter Angelina Herin (Jason Prykuda) of Cleveland; and his siblings, Betty Larsen and John Herin.
Robert Davis
Robert Davis, 67, of Pomeroy, died Sunday, Feb. 13, 2022, at Garfield County Hospital in Pomeroy. Richardson-Brown Funeral Home of Pomeroy is in charge of arrangements.
Emma Sue (Whittaker) Kelly
Sue Kelly left this earth for her eternal home Monday, Feb. 7, 2022.
Emma Sue Whittaker was born to Clarence and Mary Whittaker on Aug. 24, 1934. She graduated from Lawrenceville Township High School in 1952. She played sports as a member of the GAA (Girls Athletic Association), sang in the choir and was a member of the Tomahawk School Paper. Sue married her high school sweetheart, Tom Kelly, on June 20, 1952, in Lawrenceville, Ill. They moved to Pomeroy in November 1960. Sue worked several different jobs and retired from the Garfield Memorial Hospital as a CNA in June 1997. Sue loved elderly people, so she continued to provide home health to several families in Pomeroy and also enjoyed providing childcare as well for families when needed.
Sue was a member of the Christian Church and attended the Pomeroy Christian Church for many years and then the Church of Christ when they moved to Royal Plaza in Lewiston in February, 2021.
She is survived by her husband, Tom; her children, Tom (Dort) Kelly, of Clarkston, Jon (Kelly) Kelly, of Pomeroy, and Tami (Mark) Morgan, of Richland; grandchildren Elijah, Rachael (Ernie), Michael (Larissa), Justin (Krista), Brooke and Dani Sue; great-grandchildren Jayden, Makayla, Aubree, Malaki, Lexis, Hoyt, Braxton, Jack, and Case. She is also survived by one brother, Neal Whittaker; sisters Marilyn Hawkins, Clarice Camuso, and Becky Glevenyak. She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother and two sisters.
Her family takes comfort in her life lived as a believer of Christ and that she peacefully passed away by the side of her groom of 69 years. A family graveside is planned for later. The family would like to thank the Royal Plaza staff for the care they provided Mom.
Memorials may be made to the Pomeroy Christian Church, PO Box 699, Pomeroy WA 99347 or the Pomeroy Food Bank, PO Box 15, Pomeroy, WA 99347.
Katherine “Kathy” Jo (Rimmelspacher) Carlson
Katherine “Kathy” Jo (Rimmelspacher) Carlson died peacefully in her home of natural causes on Friday, Feb. 4, 2022.
Kathy was born Sept. 3, 1951, in Clarkston to Ed and Della (Barlow) Rimmelspacher.
She was raised on the family farm and ranch in Peola and attended Holy Family School through the eighth grade. Kathy graduated from Clarkston High School in 1969. She later moved to Portland where she attended business school. After her program finished, she returned to Clarkston.
Kathy met the love of her life, Rick Carlson, at a dance club in Lewiston while in high school. They married on Dec. 11, 1971, at Holy Family Church, and were able to share 50 years of marriage.
Kathy made a positive impact on people throughout her life. She lived a life of service and love to others and was loved by many. Through her volunteerism with Holy Family Church and School, the Moose Club, the Eagles, the Foresters, Clarkston High School and many more, she was always generous with her time, her money and her spirit. She also planned many hot air balloon festivals.
Kathy began working at a young age on the family farm. She worked at the Arctic Circle during high school and later worked at a bank in Clarkston. She co-owned and managed a children’s clothing store in Lewiston named Small World while her children were young. As her children got a little older, she taught music at Holy Family School. During that time, Kathy also attended Lewis-Clark State College, completing her degree in 1998. She also worked tirelessly supporting her husband with their work at RC Technologies.
Kathy enjoyed fishing with family and friends and loved hosting the fish fry of the day’s catch. She was a committed contributor on the family farm, spending many hours, weekends and holidays helping with chores like branding, repairing fences, ear tagging, driving truck or chopping hay.
Kathy was preceded in death by her parents; uncle, John (Alvina) Rimmelspacher; and aunt, Sally (Dick) Floyd. She leaves behind her husband, Rick; sister Rose Schutte; three children, Christina (Al) Middleton, Alan (Ambure) Carlson and Alicia Vanderschuere (Michael); eight grandkids, Brianna Carlson, Emily Carlson, Adam Carlson, Sierra Middleton, Riley Middleton, Ella Vandershuere, Mia Vandershuere and Ali Vanderschuere; aunt Marie Rimmelspacher; sister-in-law Elaine (Kent) Dibble; brother-in-law Steve (Rita) Carlson; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Many others count her as family.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the scholarship fund being established in her name at Holy Family School, 1002 Chestnut St., Clarkston WA 99403. A memorial service is tentatively planned for June 24, 2022, at Holy Family Church.
Marie A. Ahlstrom
Marie A. Ahlstrom, 83, passed away Monday, January 31, 2022, in Clarkston.
Marie was born March 11, 1938, in St. Joe, Idaho, to Robert and Willodene Creswell. Marie spent large portions of her life in Los Angeles, Slickpoo, Ruebens, Winchester, Lewiston, and Culdesac. She lived in Pomeroy for her last 26 years. She raised children her whole life.
She is survived by her sister Carmelita Nedrow; her children Anita Witte, Lyla McCammon, David Crawford, Kristina Gillum, Jenette Spindler and Shannon Ahlstrom; her grandchildren, David, Brian, Theresa, Renee, Tristen, Robert, Danika, Stephanie, Testa, Cassandra, Ayla, Samuel, Kameryne, Hugh (Bucky), Skyler, Sidney, Shadow and Bryndahl; her great-grandchildren, Destiny, Kailee, David, Dakota, Shayla, Dylan, Stessani, Diamond, Marley, Donald (Junior), Meliodas, Anthony, Bryson, Branson, Serenity, Dexton, Sidney (Skeeto), Luis, Victorio, Zamira, Sakima, Terresa, Samuel, Fox, Cadence, Kinley, Alaina, Amanda, Krysten, Alijah, Brynley, Amelie, Jack and Garrett; and her great-great-grandchildren, Logan, John, Bailee, Zaiden, Oliver and Rosemarie Lynn.
Marie was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Willdodene Creswell; her brothers Robert, Paul, William and David Creswell; her son Paul Crawford and grandson Samuel Blair Crawford.
Marie was instrumental in the forming the LC Valley Foodbank in Lewiston, She did outsourcing, networking, referrals and as the director she facilitated an ongoing supply of USDA commodities to help families.
Throughout her life she enjoyed painting, sketching in color, writing, gardening, playing the piano, and playing board games and cards with her children, grandkids and many friends. She had a phenomenal imagination as a great storyteller. This always captured the full attention of everyone listening.
Marie authored a book that became published, titled “Whitehawk: Journey to Rasemore.” She wrote several books that are entertaining and capturing of one’s imagination on different age levels. Although most of her work was not published, the stories still captured the attention of many.
Marie’s life was lived fully and on her terms. She had many friends considered to be like family. All of our prayers for her new-found freedom and wishes for a beautiful journey to the Kingdom of The Lord.
There will be a memorial at noon March 6 [2022] at the Elks Lodge in Lewiston, followed at 2:30 p.m. at Hells Gate State Park to release balloons followed by a potluck/picnic with a prayer to send her on her journey.
Peter Robert Ledgerwood
Pete Ledgerwood of Pomeroy died Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2022. He was 61.
Pete was born June 22, 1960, in Pomeroy, to Dick and Catherine Ledgerwood and was raised in Garfield County. He was a proud member of the Class of 1978 and had many friends and family in Garfield County.
Pete had open-heart surgery at 5 years old and was never expected to live a full and active life. He was very active on the ranch and participated in most sports and extracurricular activities. He was active in FFA and showed the Reserve Champion Steer his senior year at the Spokane Jr. Livestock Show.
Pete attended Spokane Community College and later worked at various jobs in Garfield County and surrounding areas, mostly for farmers or chemical companies. In 1987, he was working in Garfield County and was in a severe car accident while on his way home. Life was never the same for Pete. He was in a coma for some time before recovering enough to live on his own with some assistance. Pete worked at Rico’s in Pullman as well as Orchard Lanes in Lewiston and many other odd jobs over those years.
His last years were spent at Memory Manor in Pomeroy, with the loving care of all the staff there. It was mentioned by many who knew him that he had a great smile and “sparkle” in those eyes.
Pete is survived by brothers Jim and Colleen Ledgerwood, Dan Ledgerwood, Sam and Sheree Ledgerwood, all of Pomeroy. Ed and Kerri Ledgerwood of Scottsdale, Arizona, and Pat and Terri Ledgerwood of Kaneohe, Hawaii; and sisters Phyllis Hess of Spokane and Martha Lanman of Dayton. He is also survived by numerous nephews and nieces, a benefit of a large family which he truly enjoyed.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dick and Catherine Ledgerwood, Mary Ledgerwood (twin of Martha), Jay Brooks (husband of Martha), Bruce Lanman (husband of Martha), and Rick Hess (Husband of Phyllis).
A service for Pete will be held at 11 a.m. March 18 at the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, in Pomeroy. A reception will follow at the Catholic School Hall immediately following the service. Donations can be made to Memory Manor in Pete’s name.
