Kittitas County WA

Kittitas County Washington Obituaries

The comprehensive collection of over 400 Kittitas County, Washington obituaries, compiled by Judy Wallis White and user submissions, provides a significant record of local history. It includes detailed entries for various surnames, showcasing the lives and contributions of individuals from the region. This exclusive compilation, available through AccessGenealogy, serves as a vital resource for those researching family histories or the broader context of Kittitas County’s past.

Biographical Sketch of Henry L. Valade

Henry L. Valade, the owner of the City Hotel in Canyon City, has extensive experience in the hospitality industry, having worked at notable establishments such as the Norton House in Ellensburg and the Rainier Grand and Arlington hotels in Seattle. Since assuming management of the City Hotel, he has implemented significant enhancements, including the introduction of a first-class bar specializing in high-quality wines and liquors. His wife, Ella Rau, oversees the kitchen, contributing to the quality service offered to their guests.

Biography of Walter J. Reed

Walter J. Reed, born in Scotland in 1842, emigrated to the United States as a child and later served in the Civil War, sustaining injuries at Gettysburg. After the war, he settled in North Yakima, Washington, where he played a critical role in the development of Yakima and Kittitas counties, founding Cle-Elum and establishing the Reed House hotel. A successful businessman, he significantly contributed to the local coal industry. Reed was married to Barbara A. Steiner, and they worked together in their ventures.

Biography of Joseph M. Shelton

Joseph M. Shelton, originally from Caswell County, North Carolina, faced adversity after significant losses during the Civil War. Demonstrating resilience, he left his family plantation, journeying to Colorado in 1865, where he engaged in stock-raising. In 1866, he married Missouri C. Jones, and together they settled in Kittitas Valley, Washington, in 1882. Shelton actively contributed to local infrastructure and served as a county commissioner. He raised livestock, particularly Hereford cattle, and raised five children, establishing himself as a respected figure in the community.

Biography of C. A. Sander

C. A. Sander, born in Prussia in 1840, immigrated to America at twenty-five and initially worked in milling across Florida, New York, and Kansas. After a stint in Arizona’s quartz mines, he settled in Kittitas County, Washington, where he established a successful ranch and mill. Over the years, he acquired 800 acres of prime land and contributed to local trade development. Married in 1881, he raised three children and exemplified the value of hard work and integrity in building a prosperous life.

Biography of Frederick D. Schnebly

Frederick D. Schnebly, born in 1832 in Hagerstown, Maryland, pursued education at Franklin and Marshall College. In 1854, he journeyed to California via Nicaragua, encountering numerous challenges, including a ship fire. After unsuccessful mining attempts, he settled near Dayton, Washington, contributing to local commerce. He later established an agricultural implement business in Yakima County and was elected sheriff, where he faced lawlessness head-on. Notably, he participated in efforts against Native American conflicts, showcasing his resilience and leadership throughout his life.

Biography of Charles A. Splawn

Charles A. Splawn, born in 1831 in Clay County, Missouri, was a veteran of Indian wars. He experienced significant upheaval during the Mormon conflicts and moved to Oregon in 1851. He served under General Lane during the Rogue River War and later worked as a packer and miner. Splawn held various public offices, including the first sheriff of Yakima County and probate judge. He married twice, first to Dulcinea H. Thorpe, with whom he had one daughter, and later to Melissa F. Thorpe. He resided in Ellensburgh, Washington.

Biographical Sketch of John M. Newman

John M. Newman, born on August 10, 1851, in Sullivan County, Missouri, moved to eastern Oregon at thirteen and later settled in the Willamette Valley. He married Isabel Forgey and had eight children. In 1878, he claimed land in the Kittitas Valley, Washington, where he farms 190 acres, operates a blacksmith shop, and contributes to the community as justice of the peace and school director. Newman is known for his progressive spirit and commitment to public improvement initiatives.

Biography of David Murray

David Murray, born in Maine in 1831, is a notable capitalist known throughout Kittitass Valley, Washington. After seeking fortunes in California, where he undertook various jobs, he became the first rancher on the Fraser River during the 1862 gold rush. Later settling in Kittitass Valley, he amassed a significant cattle empire. A widower since 1878, he has focused on community improvement and retired from business, utilizing his wealth to assist neighbors. Murray is respected for his integrity and has maintained robust health into his senior years.

Obituary of John Bull

John Bull, 85, passed away on February 10 at his home in Toppenish following a prolonged illness. Born in Ellensburg, he lived there until 1919. He is survived by his wife, Ida K. Bull, and three daughters: Mrs. Spencer Short of Ellensburg, and Mrs. F. M. Petrie and Mrs. Seville Schaeffler, both of Toppenish. Private services took place at Sunnyside Memorial Park Chapel.

Uebelacker,Geneva Bronson – Obituary

Geneva Bronson, aged 97, passed away on January 4, 1998, at Crescent Convalescent Center in Yakima. Born on June 17, 1900, in Ellensburg, WA, she enjoyed a long career as a first-grade teacher in San Jose, California. She is survived by two nephews and numerous great nieces and nephews, as well as her close friend Gwen McCullough. Geneva was preceded in death by her husband Harry A. Bronson and several siblings, including her twin, Alvena Waggoner. A memorial mass is scheduled for January 7.

Cooke, Earl Patten – Obituary

Earl P. Cooke, 57, a Yakima resident for seven years, passed away on December 27 in a local hospital. Born in Ellensburg to pioneer parents, he is survived by his wife, Hazel, a sister, and three brothers. A member of the Elks, he previously lived in Menlo for 19 years and was a teacher, dedicating his efforts to instructing veterans in farm training at the time of his death.

Whitson, Nellie Cooke – Obituary

Mrs. Nellie R. Whitson, aged 78, passed away on January 2, 1939, at St. Elizabeths hospital following injuries from a fall. A pioneer of Yakima since childhood, she was born in Oregon and settled in the valley with her family in 1865. Mrs. Whitson married A. B. Whitson in Ellensburg and returned to Yakima in 1889. She leaves behind a daughter, son, and other family members. Her father played a significant role in establishing Yakima County. Interment will be at Tahoma Cemetery.

Cooke, Claude Paul – Obituary

Funeral services for Claude Paul Cooke, 62, will be held at the Jones and Jones Chapel in Bellingham. Reverend George W. Pratt will officiate, with interment at Wenatchee Cemetery. Cooke passed away after a two-year illness. Born on July 4, 1882, in Ellensburg, he spent much of his life in the Colockum and Entiat areas before moving to the coast in 1937. He is survived by his wife, mother, two sons, six daughters, one brother, and eight grandchildren.

Yocom, Ward Alva – Obituary

Ward Alva Yocom, aged 80, passed away on October 27, 1982, in Reno, Nevada. Born on June 28, 1902, in Ellensburg, Washington, he served in the Army during World War II and worked as an electrician for I.B.E.W. in Seattle. He lived in Port Orchard with his family before relocating to Reno in 1964. He is survived by his wife Dorothy, daughter Judy, son Bruce, daughters Bonnie and Vickie, and seven grandchildren. A funeral is set for Friday, with burial at Mountain View Cemetery.

Kennedy, W. F. – Obituary

W. F. Kennedy passed away on December 19, 1898, in Nelson, Washington, following a brief illness. He was known for his ownership of valuable silver mines in Washington and British Columbia. His only surviving family member is his daughter, Mrs. G.L. Keller. This notice was published in the Cove Ledger on January 12, 1899.

Moody, Albert Oran – Obituary

Albert O. Moody, aged 77, passed away at his Pendleton home on October 10, 1956, after a prolonged illness. He dedicated 37 years to the Umatilla County road department and previously served under Sheriff Tom Gurdane. A long-term resident of Umatilla County, he and his wife, Lula Barnes, recently celebrated their golden anniversary. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and sister, reflecting a legacy intertwined with family and community service.

Stuth, Nellie M. Grunden – Obituary

Nell M. Stuth, 82, passed away on January 5, 1985, in Olympia. Born on July 1, 1902, in Ellensburg, she lived in Seattle and Yakima before settling in Olympia in the 1930s. Nell married Albert E. Stubb Stuth in 1940, who predeceased her. She worked at Millers Department Store and was active in the First Christian Church. Survived by sisters Anna Nichols and Lottie Dale, her graveside service took place on January 8 at Masonic Memorial Park, managed by Mills and Mills Funeral Services.

Grimm, Mable Claire – Obituary

Mable C. Grimm, aged 88, passed away on August 14, 1990, in Puyallup, Washington. She was the daughter of May Briody and Elmer E. Stickney and was born in Kittitas County. Graveside services are scheduled for August 20 at 1 p.m. at Woodbine Cemetery, with arrangements overseen by Hill Funeral Home in Puyallup.

Grimm, George William – Obituary

George Will Grimm, aged 83, passed away on March 2, 1981, in Puyallup, where he had lived since 1922. A cabinetmaker and member of the Tacoma Eagles Lodge, he was also associated with the First United Presbyterian Church. He is survived by his wife Mabel, two sons, two daughters, a brother, 12 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. His funeral arrangements are being handled by Hill Funeral Home in Puyallup.