Ritzville Memorial Cemetery Obituaries

                                                                                  Adams county, Washington by Marge Womach

                                                                    Page A through G

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This listing is a work in progress...

Adams: ( d. 1975)  Nina Adams.—Passed away April 25, 1975, at her home, E1801 Upriver Drive. Survived by one sister, Mrs C J (Hazel) Cooil, Spokane; two step-daughters, Mrs Jack E (Mara) Kennedy and Mrs Ruth Morrison, both of Spokane; three stepson, O Conway Adams, Pasco, WA; Paul L Yager, Visalia, CA, and Murl H Yager, Niskayuna, NY; numerous grandchildren and nieces. Memorial services, Tuesday, April 29 at 2 p.m. at the Riverview Terrace E1801 Upriver Dr., the Rev Thomas W Howarth and Pastor John E Anderson officiating. Graveside services Wednesday, April 30, at 2 p.m., Father Robert McNaul officiating at the Ritzville Cemetery, Ritzville, WA. Hennessey Funeral Home, N2203 Division, in charge of arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 5-01-1975)

Adler: (d. 1974)  Pauline (Lena) Adler.—Her home was Ritzville, WA. Survived by five daughters, Mrs Helen Wellsandt of Ritzville, Mrs Elma Jolsted of Walla Walla, WA; Mrs Luetta Becker, Ritzville; Mrs Erma Collins of Seattle, WA; and Doris Adler of Ritzville; one son, Solomon Adler of Ritzville; nine grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. She was a member of the Zion Congregational Church of Ritzville, WA. Funeral services Feb 9 at 11 a.m. from the Zion Congregational Church of Ritzville. Rev Donald Glen Blanchette officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. Danekas Funeral Home of Ritzville, WA, in charge of the arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 2-07-1974)  

Adler: (d.1975)  Solomon Adler (age 70).—His home, Ritzville, WA. He is survived by 5 sisters, Mrs Helen Wellsandt, Ritzville; Mrs Alma Jolstead, Walla Walla, Mrs Henry (Luett) Becker, Ritzville; Mrs Irma Collins, Seattle; Miss Doris Adler, Ritzville; one aunt, Lydia Olsen, Spokane, WA; numerous nieces and nephews. He was a member of the Zion Congregational Church of Ritzville. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, Oct 29 at 11 a.m. at the Chapel of the Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA, the Rev Donald Blanchette officiating. Interment at Ritzville Memorial Cemetery.” (Spokesman Review: 11-06-1975)

Ahern:( d. 1969)  “(Mrs.) Evelyn Ahern.—Her home, W 301 Second, Ritzville, WA. Survived by one daughter, Mrs. Lee (Ruby) Burroughs, Ritzville, WA; 3 sons, Orville Ahern, Ritzville, WA; Ernest Ahern, Spokane, WA; Clifford Ahern, Ritzville, WA; 7 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild; 2 sisters, Mrs. H. H. Smith, Spokane; Mrs. Martha Williamson, Portland, OR; 2 brothers, Alvin Judd, Los Angeles, CA; Clifford Judd, Los Angeles, CA. A member of the Rebekah Lodge, Ritzville, WA. Funeral services will be Tuesday, Oct 7 at 2 p.m. in the Chapel of the Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA, the Rev Ernest Springer officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. The Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA, in charge of arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 10-07-1969)

Albershardt: ( b. Jan 13, 1907, d. Oct 15, 1999)  “Funeral services for Emma Margaret Matha Albershardt, 92, were held on Wednesday, Oct 20, at the Danekas Funeral Home Chapel in Ritzville. Mrs Albershardt, who was 92, died Friday, Oct 15, 1999, at Odessa Memorial Hospital. She was a resident of Odessa, formerly of Cheney. She was the daughter of Friedrich and Anna Wuethrich Arlt, Sr. She was born Jan 13, 1907, at Weber, southwest of Odessa near Schrag. She graduated from Puyallup (WA) High School in 1925, then attended Cheney Normal School for two years, receiving her teaching certificate. She taught school for a few years at Weber before marrying Fred Albershardt in May 1931. They farmed near Ritzville from 1946 to 1955, when she moved to Cheney. She worked at EWC for several years. In 1998, after hip surgery, she moved to Odessa to live closer to her daughter, Dorothy Winter. She was a member of the Cheney Senior Citizens and the Cheney Grandmothers club. Surviving are her two sons, Donald F. Albershardt and his wife Sherrill, of Ridgefield, WA, and James L Albershardt and his wife Kay, of Yamhill, OR; three daughters, Dorothy D. Winter and her husband Arthur, of Odessa; Shirley Ann Dirks and her husband Jerry, of Moscow, ID, and Marian L Thompson and her husband Harry of Boise, ID; grandchildren David and Daniel Albershardt, Douglas Winter and Janet Woodburn and Lee Ann Berg and Bret Dirks, and 9 great grandchildren. The Rev Don Smith officiated at the funeral. Concluding services and vault interment followed at Ritzville Memorial Cemetery.” (Odessa Record: undated)

Allert: ( b. Jul 1, 1949, d. Sep 1, 1969)  Kristy Lynne Allert, (20).—Her home, Washtucna, WA. Survived by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Allert, Washtucna, WA; one brother, Terry Allert, Washtucna, WA; grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Allen Scott, Benge, WA; Mr. and Mrs. Walter Allert, Ritzville, WA. A member of the Benge Community Church, the Benge 4-H group, the Benge Grange, a student at Yakima Junior College. Funeral services Wednesday, Sept 3 at 2 p.m. at the Benge Community Church, Benge, WA, Dr Mark Lee officiating. Interment at 4 p.m. at Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. The Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA, in charge of funeral arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 9-03-1969)

Amen: (b. Jan 19, 1887, d. Jul 17, 1975)   Anna M. Amen, 88, a lifetime resident of this area, passed away last Thursday, July 17. Born Jan 19, 1887, in Hastings, NE, Mrs. Amen was the daughter of John and Anna (Bauer) Schafer. The family moved to Washington in 1890 and homesteaded land northwest of Ritzville in 1891. On Feb 13, 1908, she was married to George Amen, they resided on their farm near Packard until 1942 when they retired—moving first to Odessa and shortly thereafter establishing their home in Ritzville. Mrs. Amen remained at her Ritzville home until about a year and a half ago when she became a resident of the Odessa Convalescent Home. Her life centered around her family and friends and her church, serving as organist for many years in the Emmanuel Congregational Church on the Adams-Lincoln County line. She continued her interest in music after retirement by being the pianist for a prayer group in the Philadelphia Congregational Church, Ritzville, where she was a member.  Her husband, George, preceded her in death in 1970.  Survivors are her two children, Alma Schoessler of Yakima, and Otto of Ritzville; four grandchildren: Mary Anne Guggenheim, Denver, CO; Dorothy Bower, Wapato, WA; Richard Amen, Saratoga, CA; and Donald Amen, Arlington, VA; and by three great grandchildren.  Also surviving are three sisters: Elizabeth Walter, Odessa; Emelia Ramsey, Wenatchee; and Martha Cordes, Spokane. Her youngest sister, Alma Amen of Norfolk, NE, preceded Mrs. Amen in death by one day.  Funeral services were held from the Philadelphia Congregational Church on Monday morning, Rev Ernest Sprenger officiating. Milton Sackmann was soloist. Pall bearers included Donald Amen, Paul Shugert, Alvin Lenhart, Richard Amen, Lee Roy Weizel and Wayne Lenhart. Burial was in Ritzville Memorial Cemetery.” (Odessa Record: 7-24-1975)  

Amen: ( b. 1890, d. 1971)   Emma Amen.—Resident of Ritzville. Survived by two daughters, Mrs. Harry Arlt; Mrs. Jess Graber of Ritzville; three brothers, John Luiten, Pullman, Alfred Luiten, Spokane; three sisters, Mrs. Chris Fischer, Davenport; Mrs. Minnie Foote, Spokane, Mrs. Fred Burghard, Ritzville; 6 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren. She was a member of the Zion Congregational Church of Ritzville. Funeral will be Monday, Sept 20, at 2:30 p.m. at the Chapel of the Danekas Funeral Home. The Rev Martin Ernst officiating. Interment at the Ritzville Cemetery. Funeral arrangements are in the care of The Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA.” (Spokesman Review: 9-18-1971) 

Amen: ( b. 1879, d. Apr 25, 1970)   George Amen, resident of this area since 1893, died April 25 at the Ritzville Memorial hospital at the age of 90.  Mr. Amen was born in Frank Russia. His father died when he was two years old. After his mother married George Lenhart, they came to the US in 1888 and settled at Walla Walla. Five years later his parents took up a homestead in the Packard vicinity. Mr. Amen started farming on his own at the age of 26 in the same area. He and the former Anna Schafer of Odessa were married Feb 13, 1908. They resided on their farm until 1942 when they retired, moving first to Odessa and shortly thereafter establishing their home in Ritzville. They celebrated their 62nd anniversary this past February.  George had an active interest in his community by serving on the rural school board and being a leader in the Emanuel Congregational Church on the county line. In later years he was a member of the Odessa Congregational Church and upon retirement in Ritzville, joined the Philadelphia Congregational Church. In addition to his wife, Anna, at the home, survivors are one daughter, Mrs. David Schoessler of Yakima; one son, Otto of Ritzville; a sister, Mrs. Jacob Weizel of Ritzville; three brothers, John Lenhart and Jacob Lenhart, both of Ritzville, and Fred Lenhart of Odessa; four grandchildren; two great grandchildren; and many nephews and nieces. Funeral services were conducted Monday from the Philadelphia Church in Ritzville. Interment was at the Ritzville Memorial Cemetery.” (Odessa Record: 4-30-1970)

Amen: (d. 1968)  Henry Amen.—His home 306 W Main, Ritzville, WA. Survived by his wife, Emma, at the home; 2 daughters, Mrs. Harry (Verna) Arlt, and Mrs. Jess (Geneva) Graber, both of Ritzville; 6 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. He was a member of the Congregational Church. Funeral services Tuesday, Dec 26, 2 p.m. from the chapel of the Danekas Funeral Home at Ritzville, WA. The Rev Alfred Olsen of Naselle, WA, officiating. Interment at the Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. The Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA, in charge of arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 12-26-1968)

Anderson: ( b. 1946, d. 1962)  Kenneth Anderson, 17, of Ritzville, was killed in a head-on collision on highway 10 near Odessa, five others died in the accident. The Anderson car had three other 17-year-olds in it that died and two that survived. The report received in Odessa said that Anderson, Evans and Miss Kautz were trapped in the Anderson car, which rolled over twice and caught fire. Frantic rescue efforts failed and the three bodies were charred almost beyond recognition. (Odessa Record: 9-27-1962)

Anderson: ( b. Dec 18, 1911, d. Jun 1, 2001)   Oscar J. Anderson, a native and long-time resident of northwestern Adams County, died Friday, June 1, 2001, in Spokane. He was born Dec 18, 1911, on the family farm between Ritzville and Odessa, the son of Barbara and Charles Anderson. he graduated from Ritzville High School in 1933. He married Ethel C. Vostral on Oct 17, 1939. They resided at Electric City and Portland, returning to the family farm after WW II. He was a member of St Agnes Catholic Church in Ritzville. In 1979 they retired to Spokane after farming in the Schoonover area for 35 years. Interment was at Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. He was survived by his wife, 3 daughters, 5 grandchildren, one sister, Lillian Schafer of Lind, and numerous nieces and nephews. (notes from Odessa Record: 6-07-2001)(NTS)

Arlt: ( b. Mar 16, 1896, d. Mar 21, 1945)  Arthur Arlt, 49, Ritzville resident and pioneer farmer of the southwest area, was killed about 4:45 Tuesday morning when the car he was driving left a straight stretch of road on the main highway 22 miles west of Ritzville and plunged over a 30-foot embankment. Arlt operated a farm near the Schrag area 27 miles from Ritzville but lived in town. The wreck was discovered by a passing truck driver who notified the state patrol at Ritzville. The officer reported that Arlt’s car took out four concrete guard rails and on about 110 feet before it came to a stop. Arlt was thrown clear of the wreckage and is believed to have died instantly. Survivors include his widow and four children at Ritzville; his mother, Anna Arlt, Ritzville; two brothers, Fred of Hartline, and Robert of Schrag; five sisters, Mrs. Herman Sieverkropp of Odessa; Mrs. John Schmidt, Cheney; Mrs. Fred Albershardt and Mrs. Ernest Babcock, both of Spokane; and Mrs. Dave Eckhart of Wilson Creek. A Ritzville report states that funeral services will be held there on Friday.” (Odessa Record: 3-22-1945)

Arlt: ( b. 1892, d. Apr 3, 1933)  Gustave Theodore Arlt died at Sprague Apr 3 following an operation. He served with Battery F, 346th Field Artillery during the war along with quite a number of Harrington men. He was 41 years 8 months of age at the time of death. The funeral was held at Ritzville, Apr 5 with Ritzville veterans in charge. A number of Sprague veterans, some of whom served with him overseas, attended. Surviving him are his widow, two little sons, his parents, and 9 brothers and sisters. Since 1909 the family resided on the Crowe Brothers’ farm near Sprague. (Citizen, Apr 21, 1933))

Arlt: ( b. Nov 23, 1911, d. Nov 22, 1996)  “Funeral services for Harry Arlt, a native of the Packard area and a long-time resident of Ritzville and Spokane, were held on Tuesday, Nov 26, at the Emanuel Lutheran Church in Ritzville. Mr. Arlt died one day before his 85th birthday, on Nov 22, 1996, at the Terrace Heights Care Center in Moses Lake. He was born at Packard on Nov 23, 1911, the son of William A. Arlt, Jr., and Elizabeth Schwerin Arlt. He attended a country school near Packard and later Ritzville High School, from which he was graduated in 1930. Following graduation, he worked at the Packard Grain Elevator. He married Verna Amen on Nov 26, 1933, in Ritzville. They lived and farmed between Ritzville and Odessa. Harry retired from farming in 1982, and for a time the couple lived in Ritzville and Spokane. They took permanent resident in their apartment in Spokane in 1988. In August of that year, they moved to Moses Lake to be closer to their daughter and family. Verna preceded him in death unexpectedly on Aug 31. Having broken a hip in a fall, Harry had spent the past three months in the Terrace Heights Care center in Moses Lake. He was a member of the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Spokane, past member of the Emanuel Lutheran in Ritzville, a member of the WA Wheat Growers Assn, an officer and former board member of the Big Bend Electric Co-op, past secretary of the Marcellus Elevator and a member of the Spokane Elks and the Moose Lodge. He is survived by three daughters, Patty Fode and her husband, Roy, of Moses Lake; Peggy Simmonds and her husband, Fred, of Carmichael, CA; and Karen Thiel and her husband, Lamar, of Ritzville; one son, Dennis Arlt, of Anchorage, Alaska; 7 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren; one sister, Ruth Heimbigner, of Ephrata; and one brother, Lawrence Arlt, of Ritzville. Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by three sisters, Dora Schroeder, Agnes Arlt and Alice Vostral. Officiating at the funeral was the Rev John Finstuen, of Spokane. Interment followed at Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. Danekas Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.” (Odessa Record: 11-28-1996)

Arlt: ( b. 1887, d. 1966)   Herman H. Arlt.—His home, 109 W 6th, Ritzville, WA. Survived by two sisters, Mrs. Matha Bauer of Ritzville, WA, Mrs. Ella Haase, Kettle Falls, WA; six brothers, William Arlt, Carl Arlt, J. J. Arlt, all of Ritzville, WA; E. H. Arlt, Creston, BC, Canada, H. A. Arlt, Chewelah, WA, A. H. Arlt, Addy, WA; numerous nieces and nephews. Member Lutheran Church. Funeral service Tuesday, Jan 8 at 11 a.m. from the Chapel of the Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA. Rev Yoher officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery.” (Spokesman Review: 2-26-1966)

Arlt: ( b. Feb 2, 1922, d. Jun 18, 1954)  “Two men paid with their lives for a happy homecoming plane ride over a Big Bend wheat ranch near Ritzville Friday.  The dead are Leroy Arlt, 31, son  of Carl Arlt, Ritzville wheat grower, and Mrs. Lydia M. Billesbach, Odessa, operator of the Hotel Odessa, the pilot, and his passenger, Ray Richter, 30, native of California, who had been discharged from the army Thursday at Fort Lewis after completing service with the US occupational forces in Germany. The plane, a four-place Stinson, nosed into a wheat field scarcely 200 yards from the farm home of John Hennings, 13 miles east of Ritzville, after hitting rural telephone lines over the Telecky farm. The plane was demolished and Richter killed outright. The wreckage did not burn. Arlt died shortly after arriving at the Deaconess hospital, Spokane. The plane had taken off from Ritzville airport.  The fatal flight was a salute to the parents of Richter’s wife, Anne, Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Hennings, whose farm adjoins the John Hennings ranch. Richter and his wife and their small daughter, Linda, were staying at the C H Henning farm home. It is not believed the parents or Richter’s wife saw the plane crash. John Hennings witnessed the accident. CAA officials, Deputy Sheriff Clinton Rowe and Coroner Richard Whitmore investigated.  Funeral services for Richter were held Monday morning and the Arlt service from a funeral home chapel at Ritzville in the afternoon. Robert Walter and David Schrag, Odessa, were among the pallbearers. Richard Zellmer of Davenport also acted. From Ritzville were Don Schwizow, Ben VanBuren and Orville Moeller. The Rev F. Ahrendt officiated. Members of the Odessa post of Veterans of Foreign Wars conducted the graveside service, Rev Ahrendt giving the committal. Arlt had four years with the US Navy. He farmed his own land in connection with his father, and was also an employee of the Norkem Company. He was also a member of the Odessa Gun Club. In addition to the parents, he is survived by two brothers, William of Lamont, and Howard of Rosalia.” (Odessa Record: 6-24-1954

Arlt: ( b. Mar 2, 1883, d. 1964)  (Lizzie Arlt) “Funeral services for Mrs. William A. Arlt were conducted Wednesday afternoon at Emanuel Lutheran church. Mrs. Arlt died Monday at the age of 80 years. She was born March 2, 1883 in Two Rivers, WI, the daughter of Henry C. and Marie Schwerin. She is survived by her husband, William A Arlt, at the home in Ritzville; by three daughters and two sons. The daughters are Mrs. Dora Schroeder, Ritzville; Mrs. Alice Vostral, Ritzville; and Mrs. Ruth Heimbigner, Ephrata. The sons are Harry and Lawrence Arlt of Ritzville. Also surviving are a sister, Mrs. John Luiten of Spokane and two brothers, Charles A. Schwerin of Ritzville and Paul Schwerin of Kettle Falls. There are 18 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. The Rev Albert Wagner conducted the funeral service. Bruce Hille sang, ‘Wide Open Are Thy Hands’ and ‘I Know That My Redeemer Lives’. His organ accompanist was Mrs. Orville Moeller. Pallbearers were Roy Fode, Tony Vostral, Roy Gallion, Gene Markum, Dennis Arlt and Tom Arlt. Honorary pallbearers were Paul Geschke, Richard Miessner, Henry L. Schafer, Joe Bastron, Orville Luiten and Henry Amen. Burial was in the Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. Ritzville Journal Times.” (Odessa Record: 4-02-1964))

Arlt: ( b. Nov 29, 1911, d. Aug 31, 1996)   Verna V. Arlt, 84, former long-time Ritzville and Spokane resident, died Aug 31, 1996, at Samaritan Hospital in Moses Lake. Graveside committal services were held Sept 4 at Ritzville Memorial Cemetery followed by memorial services at Emanuel Lutheran Church in Ritzville, with the Rev John Finstuen, of Spokane, officiating. Verna was born on Nov 29, 1911, at the farm home of her parents, Henry and Emma (Luiten) Amen, between Ritzville and Odessa. She was raised on the farm and attended school in the area, including the Weber country school and a year of high school in Odessa. In her late teen years, Verna worked at the Aplet plant in Cashmere. She was married to Harry Arlt on Nov 26, 1933, at her parents’ home. They continued to live and farm near Ritzville until 1982. At that time, they retired from farming and lived in Spokane and Ritzville. They moved to Spokane permanently in 1988 and had just recently gone to Moses Lake to be closer to family.  Verna loved her family and enjoyed caring for her yard, garden and flowers. She was a member of Emanuel Lutheran Church while living in Ritzville and of Emmanuel Lutheran Church while in Spokane.  She is survived by her husband of more than 62 years, Harry Arlt, of Moses Lake; three daughters and sons-in-law, Peggy and Fred Simmonds, of Carmichael, CA; Patty and Roy Fode, of Moses Lake; and Karen and Lamar Thiel of Ritzville; one son, Dennis Arlt, of Anchorage, Alaska; one sister, Geneva Graber, of Spokane; 7 grandchildren, and 9 great grandchildren. Arrangements were in care of Kayser’s Chapel of Memories, Moses Lake.” (Odessa Record: 9-05-1996)

Arlt: ( b. 1884, d. 1970)  William A. Arlt, age 86.—His home was 507 Broadway, Ritzville, WA. Survived by 3 daughters, Mrs. Levein (Dora) Schroeder, Ritzville, WA, Mrs. Ed (Alice) Vostral, Ralston, WA; Mrs. Eldon (Ruth) Heimbigner, Ephrata, WA; 2 sons, Harry Arlt, Lawrence Arlt, both Ritzville, WA; 2 sisters, Mrs. Matha Bauer, Ritzville, Mrs. Ella Haase, Kettle Falls, WA; 5 brothers, Edward Arlt, Creston, BC; Henry Arlt, Chewelah, WA; Carl Arlt, John Arlt, both Ritzville; Albert Arlt, Addy, WA; 18 grandchildren; 25 great grandchildren. Funeral services Tuesday, Sept 1, at 2 p.m. form the Chapel of the Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, Pastor Floyd Yokers officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery, The Danekas Funeral Home in charge of funeral arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 8-31-1970)

Armstrong: ( b. Jul 19, 1870, d.  1949)    John ( Jack) Armstrong-Long obit in file; died Spokane; born July 19, 1870 in Kalama, Sweden; married Elsie Landry on Jan 19, 1900. She died in 1928. John was buried in Ritzville Cemetery. A dau. was Mrs. E. C. Oestreich of Harrington.) (Citizen, Sep 23, 1949))

Baldry: ( b. Jun 13, 1922, d. Oct 15, 1973)  Horace W. Baldry.—103 E Broadway, Ritzville. Survived by his wife, Patricia, at home; 2 daughters, Mrs. Beth Hooper, Payette, Idaho; Mrs. Martha Hooper, Ritzville; 2 sons, Jack and William Baldry, both of Ritzville; one sister, Ruth Halverson, Scobey, Montana; 5 brothers, Harold Baldry, Lincoln, Montana; Dale Baldry, Poplar, Montana; Loren Baldry, Wendell, Idaho; Wesley Baldry, Wolf Creek, Montana; Douglas Baldry, Hawthorne, Nevada; 2 grandchildren. Is a member of the Methodist Church. Funeral services Thursday, Oct 18 at 11 a.m. from the Chapel of Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, Rev Ernest Sprenger officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. Danekas Funeral Home of Ritzville in charge of arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 10-17-1973)

Barnes: ( b. Apr 3, 1917, d. Jul 24, 1997)   Robert Harvey Barnes  died July 24, 1997 at Crestwood Convalescent Center, Port Angeles, WA. He was born at Ritzville on April 3, 1917, and graduated form Ritzville High School in 1937. He married Kathleen R. Reddie on Oct 17, 1941. He served in the Air Force in WW II. (notes from Odessa Record: 7-31-1997)

Bastrom: ( b. Jul 20,. 1890, d. Feb 5, 1914)  " David Bastrom, (Bastron) the oldest son of Jacob Bastrom of Ritzville, died at his home at that place last Friday morning after six months of suffering with fractured spine from a threshing accident. Born in Bickleton, WA in 1894, married Katie Eckhardt more than 3 years ago. Survivors: widow, 2 yr old son, father and mother, 3 brothers and 4 sisters, and a nephew of Jacob Bastrom of Odessa. Funeral at Ritzville in the German Congregational church. (notes from Odessa Record: 2-13-1914)

Batt: ( b. 1892, d. 1964)  Jacob Batt Rites Set For Friday. Funeral services for Jacob Batt, Ritzville, will be held on Friday at 2 p.m. from the chapel of the Danekas funeral home at Ritzville, the Rev Albert Wagner officiating. Batt was a former resident of the southwest Odessa area. Survivors include his wife, Molly, at the home; two daughters, Mrs. Bill Kiehn, Cashmere; Mrs. Rudolph Schell, Othello’ two sons, Ruben Batt, Edwall, and Clarence Batt of Everett; two brothers, David and Alec Batt, Tacoma; 10 grandchildren.” (scrapbook item; OR: 2-27-1964)

Batt: ( b. 1899, d. 1971)  “Funeral services were held Tuesday, June 1 for Molly Batt, 72, of Ritzville, WA. Services were held in the chapel of the Danekas Funeral Home, with Rev Philip Faulk officiating. Interment was in the Ritzville Memorial Cemetery.  Mrs. Batt is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Bill (Joan) Kiehn, of Cashmere, WA; and Mrs. Rudolph (Helen) Schell of Othello; two sons, Reuben Batt of Edwall, WA; and Clarence Batt of Cashmere, WA; one brother, Henry Batt of Laurel, MT; ten grandchildren and one great grandchild.” (Odessa Record: 6-03-1971)  

Bauer: ( b. Feb 14, 1900, d. Jul 6, 1908)  ( Arthur V.) Artie, the eight year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Bauer, succumbed to an attack of lockjaw ... Monday evening...The remains were laid to rest in the Ritzville Cemetery.” (Odessa Record-July 17, 1908)

Bauer: ( b. Jan 27, 1903, d. 1956)  “Funeral services for Mrs. Margaret Bauer, 53, who died last Wednesday at her Ritzville home, were held Saturday from the Philadelphia Congregational Church there with the Rev R Kirschenmann and the Rev Herbert Haemmelman officiating. Burial was in the Ritzville Cemetery. Music was provided... The daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Conrad Schafer, she was born in Odessa on Jan 27, 1903. On Sept 22, 1921 she married William Bauer at Walla Walla. For approximately 35 years they operated a farm near Ritzville. For the past 10 years she has been in ill health and was frequently taken to the hospital for short periods.  She is survived by her husband, four sons, Wesley of Auburn, WA; Davis, of Hutton, WA; Harland, of Ritzville; and William, of Seattle; four grandchildren; three sisters, Mrs. Ray Dawson, of Walla Walla; Mrs. Nick Klaus of Albany, OR; and Alma Schafer of Portland; one brother, Samuel Schafer of Odessa.” (Odessa Record: 12-27-1956)  

Bauer: ( b. Jun 23, 1893, d. Oct 18, 1970)   “Funeral services for Martin V. Bauer were held at the chapel of Danekas Funeral Home on Saturday, Oct 24, at 2 p.m.  The Rev Ernest Sprenger conducted the service. Mr. Bauer died Sunday Oct 18 in a nursing home in Centralia, WA, after a long illness. Martin Bauer was born June 23, 1893 on the Bauer homestead near Ritzville. He was one of six children of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Bauer, covered wagon pioneers of the Ritzville area.  In 1898 the family moved to Ritzville when his father, Jacob Bauer and Henry Bier opened the Bauer-Bier Hardware Store. The firm later became the Ritzville Trading Co.  Bauer received his education in Ritzville schools and later attended business college in Portland, OR. He was associated with the Ritzville Trading Co for many years as manager of the heavy hardware department.  In 1927 he and Elfrieda H Nuetzmann were married in Ritzville. Three children were born to them.  Robert G Bauer is head of the art department of Centralia Community College. (Edit: Survivors include:) Mrs. LaMar (Marguerite) Heimbigner of Odessa; Mrs. Howard (Marian Joan) Steward of Suquamish, WA; and a daughter by a former marriage, Mrs. Frank (Maurine) Murphey of Anaheim, CA. Also surviving are three sisters, Mrs. A. N. MacDonald, Portland, Or; Mrs. H. J. Ratz, Indianola, WA; and Mrs. V. R. D. Kirkham of Spokane.  The family moved to Poulsbo, WA, in 1952 and in 1959, Mr. and Mrs. Bauer moved to Centralia, where she died in 1961. Interment was held in the Ritzville Cemetery.” (Odessa Record: 10-29-1970; faulty original copy, there may be other survivors)

Bauer: ( b. 1913, d. 1937)  Orris Bauer, 23, young rancher of the area between Odessa and Ritzville, was killed in an auto wreck on Christmas eve between Ritzville and Lind, while en route to Pasco. When his car left the road he received injuries from which he died the next morning. Funeral services were held at Ritzville on Tuesday morning.” (Odessa Record: 12-30-37)

Bauer: ( b. Mar 22, 1896, d. Jun 18, 1986)   William Frederick Bauer of Ritzville, born March 22, 1896 to Johan Peter and Anna Elizabeth Bauer, passed away June 18. He was a grandson of Johan Jacob Bauer... Burial Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. (Odessa Record: 7-03-1986)

Baumann: ( b. 1887, d. 1969)  Charles J. Baumann.—His home E 406 4th, Ritzville. Survived by his wife, Elizabeth at the home; 2 daughters, Mrs. Howard (Shirley) West, St John, WA; and Mrs. Howard (Carole) Walenta, Seattle; one son, Lloyd Baumann of Ritzville; one brother, Adolph Baumann, Kennewick, WA; 19 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren. Member of the Trinity Methodist Church of Ritzville. Funeral services Saturday, Aug 9 at 11 a.m. from the Trinity Methodist Church. Rev Robert Ortmeyer of Ephrata officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. The Danekas Funeral Home of Ritzville, in charge of funeral arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 8-09-1969) 

Becker: ( b. Mar 12, 1920, d. Sep 26, 2005)  Clara S. Melcher Becker died Sept 26, 2005 at her home in Sprague. The daughter of Henry and Katherine (Kammerzel) Melcher, she was born March 12, 1920 at Schrag. She grew up on a farm southwest of Odessa and attended a country school near Batum.  She married Fred F Becker on Sept 11, 1940 in Coeur d’Alene. They farmed and raised their family near Sprague until 1964. She was preceded in death by her husband Fred in 1979; sons Ronnie Becker in 2002 and Larry Becker in 2004; 14 brothers and sisters, and two grandsons. Survivors include one sister, Eleanor Schell of Ritzville, 5 grandchildren, 4 step-grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Interment was at Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. (notes from Odessa Record: 10-06-2005)

Becker:( b. Sep  17, 1910, d. Feb  16, 2001)   Leah R. Becker, Age 90.—Passed away Feb 16, 2001 at Life Care Center in Ritzville, WA.  Daughter of Gotfried and Christina Sauer, born Sept 17, 1910 at Lind, WA. Attended Lind schools through the eighth grade. Married  George Becker Jr. on Sept 16, 1936 in Walla Walla. They returned to Ritzville and lived on the Becker family farm, 9 miles west of town. In 1960 she and George moved into a new home they had built in Ritzville. They retired from farming in 1977. Leah was a member of the Philadelphia Congregational Church, the Ritzville Eagles Auxiliary, and was a member of the Gritman Senior Center. She is survived by her husband, George at the family home; a son, Walter G. Sauer and wife, JoAnn of Ritzville; two grandchildren, Brian Sauer and wife, Teresa of Merdian, ID, and Connie Field and husband, Jeff of Lind; three great grandchildren, Aaron Sauer, Christina and Alan Field; sisters, Ella Iltz and husband, Elmer of Odessa, Esther Whitehead of Eugene, OR; half-sister, Luetta Spencer of Spokane and step-sister, Marie Holiday and husband, Uhel of Spokane; also numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, Feb 21, 2001, 11 a.m. at the Philadelphia Congregational Church, Ritzville, with Pastor Elizabeth Sendon, officiating. Vault interment will follow at the Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA in charge of funeral arrangements.” (Spokesman-Review: 2-18-2001)(NTS)

Beherndt: (d. 1972)  Carol M. Beherndt.—Her home was at Washtucna, WA. Survived by one daughter, Stephanie Beherndt and one son, Tom Beherndt, Tyner, of Pawhuska, Oklahoma and both of Washtucna; two sisters, Rose Malvine Cecil of Pekin, IL; a brother, Johnnie Beherndt of Ponca City, OK. She was a member of the Catholic Church. Prayers for the deceased will be Wed. night, Aug 16 at 7:30 p.m., St Agnes Catholic Church, Ritzville. Funeral mass, Thursday, Aug 17, at 10 a.m., from the St Agnes Catholic Church. Father George Morbeck. Interment at the Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. The Danekas Funeral Home of Ritzville in charge of arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 8-16-1972)

Benward: (d. 1971)  Franklin D. Benward.—His home, Ritzville, WA. Survived by one daughter, Mrs. Leonard Taylor, Colville, WA; 2 grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. A member of the Modern Woodman. Funeral services Friday, Jan 29, at 1:30 p.m. from the Chapel of the Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA.  The Rev Ernest Springer officiating. Interment will be Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. The Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA in charge of arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 1-29-1971)  

Benzel: ( b. Feb 10, 1900, d.  Oct 9, 1999)  Fred Benzel, Jr.—of Ritzville, was born Feb 10, 1900 in Kolb, Russia, a small town in Northern Russia near Saratov Gubiern. In Russia, his parents owned a sunflower mill and raised wheat. Attended school in Kolb until 1913. At that time, his family immigrated to the United States. As a result of an eye condition he was forced to remain in Bremen, Germany with an uncle. However, 12 weeks later he sailed with his uncle and joined his family in Meniter, NE, near Scottsbluff.  The family remained in Nebraska for only one summer. They moved to Ritzville and began farming. In 1927 Mr. Benzel returned to Nebraska to visit relatives. There he met and married Lydia Stricker. The Strickers had also immigrated to this country from Russia. He returned with his new bride in Dec of 1927 to Ritzville, where he remained until his death.  In Ritzville, he worked for the County, was employed by the City of Ritzville from 1930 to 1941,  farmed until 1956, returned to the city as Water Supt, until retirement in 1966. Survived by his wife, Lydia; three sons, Herbert and Robert of Ritzville, and Gerald of The Woodlands, TX; two brothers, Alex of Scottsbluff, NE, and Rheiny of Renton, WA; 13 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.  Mr. Benzel will lie in state at Danekas Funeral Home in Ritzville on Tuesday, Oct 12, 1999 from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. A funeral service will be held Tuesday, Oct 12, 1999 at the Ritzville Church of the Nazarene at 1 p.m.  Interment will be held at the Ritzville City Cemetery. Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA is in charge of arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 10-10-1999)**

Benzel:( d. 1972)  Fred H. Benzel, (age 59).—His home was at 409 W Main, Ritzville, WA. He is survived by his wife Evelyn, at the home; 3 daughters, Mrs. Ronald Schaefer, Ritzville; Jeanne Benzel, Seattle, WA; his mother, Mrs. Anna Benzel, Ritzville; 4 sisters, Mrs. David McRae, Ritzville; Mrs. Dale Ellsworth, Indianapolis, IN; Mrs. Virgil Meyer, Ritzville; Mrs. Roy Kiehn of Ritzville; 5 brothers, Victor Benzel, Spokane; Arthur Benzel, Lawrence Benzel, Melvin Benzel, all of Ritzville; Everett Benzel, Colorado Springs, Colorado; 2 grandchildren. He was a member of the Philadelphia Congregational Church at Ritzville and of the Ritzville Chamber of Commerce. Funeral services will be Thursday, Jan 13 at 2 p.m. from the Philadelphia Congregational Church, Ritzville. The Rev Ernest Sprenger officiating. Interment will be at the Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. The Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA, in charge of funeral arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 1-12-1972)

Benzel:( b. Feb 26, 1919, d. May 14, 2004)  Lawrence W. Benzel, age 85, a lifelong resident of Ritzville, died on May 14, 2004 in Ritzville, WA. Born on Feb 26, 1919 to Henry and Anna Benzel, immigrants from Kolb, Russia, Larry grew up on the family farm near Marcellus and then near Ralston, attended the Ralston School ,graduating from Ritzville High School in 1936. While in high school, he worked for Dave Hoefel at the Ford dealership. Attended Kinman Business University in Spokane,returned to work in the Ford dealership where he worked until he was one of the fist Adams County men drafted into the Army in 1941. Served in the 1st Armored Division in North Africa and Italy during WW II,  discharged in 1945. Larry married Alma Ils in 1945 and began working for Gearhart Ford Sales in Ritzville… Larry is survived by Allie, his wife of 59 years and his three sons and their families: Brian and Cynthia Benzel of Spokane, their children, Melissa Fleener and husband Clay, and the first great-grandchild Madeline and Todd Benzel; Bruce and Vicki Benzel of Ritzville, and their children Ryan and Kimberly; and Tom Benzel of Cheney, and his children Mark, Keri and Sarah. Larry is also survived by three sisters, Dorothy Eckhardt and Shirley Klein, both of Ritzville and Ilene Ellsworth of Indianapolis, IN; one brother, Everett, of Colorado Springs, Colorado. Four brothers, Fred, Art, Victor and Melvin and a sister, Esther McRae preceded him in death. .. Services will be held at Zion Congregational Church in Ritzville at 11 a.m. May 20, 2004. Vault interment with military honors will follow. The Rev Sandy Sparks will officiate at both services. Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, is in charge of arrangements.” (Spokesman Review excerpt: 5-19-2004)(NTS)

Bernard:(d. 1969)  “Dr William R. Bernard, Jr.—His home, W 305 9th, Ritzville.  Survived by his wife, Elizabeth (Betty) Bernard, at the home; one daughter, Kristen M Bernard, student at University of Washington; 3 sons, William Raymond Bernard III, student at University of Washington, Ralph Bruce Bernard; C J Bernard, both at the home; parents Dr and Mrs. William R Bernard, Sr., of Richland, WA; one sister, Mrs. Laurn Lust, Anaheim, CA; two brothers, Robert Bernard, Napa, CA; Gene Bernard, Richland, WA; several aunts and uncles. Member of St Agnes Catholic Church, Ritzville, WA. Graduate of EWSC and University of Oregon Dental School. Member of Spokane District Dental Society; American Dental Association; Washington State Dental Association; Knights of Columbus; Delta Sigma Dental Fraternity; Ritzville Lions Club; Ritzville Chamber of Commerce; past president and charter member of the Sprague Lions Club; member of Ritzville Gun Club; Washington State Wheat Growers Association. Prayers for the dead Wednesday, Dec 10, 8 p.m. St Agnes Catholic Church. Requiem Mass 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec 11, St Agnes Catholic Church, Ritzville, Father James Grant and Father Ernest Burns officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. Danekas Funeral Home of Ritzville in charge of funeral arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 12-10-1969)  

Biermann: ( b. 1904, d. 1978)  William C. Biermann.—His home was Ritzville, WA. Survived by his wife, Aurelia at the home; one son, Arnold Biermann, Bellevue, WA; 2 sisters, Mrs. Ruben Schoessler, Lind, WA; Mrs. Clint Rowe, Ritzville, WA; 2 brothers, Emil Biermann, Lind, WA; Theodore Biermann, Lind, WA; 2 grandsons, Bruce and Neil Biermann. He was a member of the Philadelphia Congregational Church of Ritzville, WA. Also, a member of the Ralston Grange, Washington Wheat Association and Eagles Lodge, Ritzville, WA. Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 2 at 2 p.m. from the Philadelphia Congregational Church, Ritzville, WA, the Rev Ernest Sprenger officiating. Interment will be at the Ritzville Memorial cemetery. The Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA, in charge of funeral arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 6-04-1978)( TS: 1973)  

Black: ( b. 1878, d. Jun 28, 1965)  “Funeral services were held at Ritzville on July 1 for Lewis L. Black, 87, who died at Seattle on June 28. He was an Odessa pioneer.  The Rev Beryl Melcher officiated and interment was in the Ritzville Cemetery. Acting as pallbearers were Gary Mohr, Vit Nechanicky, Noel and John Nechanicky.  Mr. Black was born in Pittsfield, IL, in 1878. He pioneered in the Ritzville and Odessa areas in the 1900s, and sold his farm to go into business as a real estate seller and builder.  He built the business block that now contains the Keller Drugs and Fode Market, still known among old-timers as the ‘Black Block’.  Among the homes he built is the large one occupied by the R E Suchland family. Although he spent several years building at Spokane and lived the past 10 years at Seattle, he retained a hearty interest in Odessa, taking the local paper to keep his contacts. Survivors include four daughters, Mrs. John E (Marine) Nechanicky, Mrs. Walter (Edith) Johnson, Mrs. Vit L. (Dorothy) Nechanicky, and Erma V Black, all of Seattle; four grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Etta Lippencott, Tulsa, OK.” (Odessa Record: 7-15-1965)

Blanchard: ( b. 1923, d. 1971)  Anna M. Blanchard.—Her home, Colville, WA. Wife of P J (Duke) Blanchard, Colville, WA; sister of Steve S Casper, Seattle, WA; aunt of Steve E Casper, Concord, CA; Marsha S Linneer, Los Angeles, CA; several aunts and uncles. A member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Colville Lady Elks, Colville; Mt Carmel Hospital Aux., Colville, Rosary services will be held Tuesday, March 9 at 7:30 p.m. from the Bastian Funeral Home, Colville, WA. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday March 10 at 10 a.m. at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, The Rev Joseph J. Pash, officiating. Graveside services will be held Wednesday at 3 p.m. at the Ritzville Memorial Park, Ritzville, WA.” (Spokesman Review: undated; burial: 3-10-1971)

Bourne:( d. 1973)  Harry A. Bourne.—His home was E205 Second, Ritzville, WA. Survived by his wife, Myrne at the home; one daughter, Mrs. Betty Little of Spokane, WA; Four sons, Dick Bourne of Spokane, Harold Bourne of Vienna, VA, Lloyd Bourne of Sprague, WA, and Howard Bourne of Spokane, WA; 19 grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. Member of the Mead Methodist Church. Funeral services Saturday, July 7, at 1 p.m. from the chapel of the Danekas Funeral Home. Reverend Ernest Sprenger officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. The Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA, in charge of arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 7-07-1973)

Borgens: ( b. Nov 1, 1902, d. Jan 23, 1992)  Amelia Borgens, Ritzville, WA, passed away on Jan 23, 1992, at the age of 89.  She joined PSA in 1959, and in a short time attained top Star rating for exhibition of slides in both Nature and Color Slide Divisions. She was a versatile photographer with an unusual talent for expression of feeling in her images, from portrayal of the delicate character of flowers to the wild mood of the famous Omak Stampede Race. She and her brother, the late Jonathan Borgens, who passed away in 1985, were pioneers in taping music as background accompaniment for their slide shows and will be remember by many PSA members for their delightful presentations at many Regional and International Conventions. Amelia is survived by her sister Rachel Borgens and many nieces and nephews. Irene E Dye, FPSA.” (scrapbook item date Jan 1992, no source)  

Braun: ( b. Feb 22, 1916, d. Dec 29, 2004)  Aaron G. Braun, age 88.—A life long resident and area farmer from Ritzville, WA, passed away, Wednesday, Dec 29, 2004 at the Life Care Center in Ritzville. Aaron G Braun the sons of Henry P and Katherine (Schoessler) Braun was born Feb 22, 1916 at the Thiel ranch near Ritzville. Attended Willis country school,  later graduated from Ritzville High School in 1934. Worked at the Richfield and Union Service stations in Ritzville, as a carpenter at Farragut Naval Base, at Bayview, ID and at Larsen Air Force Base in Moses Lake before beginning a career in farming. Aaron married Florence Schafer April 20, 1939 in Ritzville. From 1943 to 1945 Aaron worked for area farmers, but, in 1945 he leased farm ground, 1966 they purchased the Henry C Schafer ground, and in 1968  purchased the H. P. Braun farm combining both his and his wife’s family farms. In 1971 he incorporated the farm to B and B Farms. Preceded in death by a son Dale in 1944, his wife of 50 years, Florence in 1989, and by five brothers and four sisters. Surviving is his daughter Kae Koch and husband Harold of Chehalis, WA and a son David Braun and wife Carla of Ritzville; a brother Howard Braun of Deer Park, WA; two grandchildren, Dustan Braun and Angela Braun both of Spokane; four great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was a member of Zion Philadelphia Congregational Church, the Washington State Grange and the Washington State Association of Wheat Growers. Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday Jan 4, 2005 at 1 p.m. at Zion-Philadelphia Congregational Church, Ritzville, WA, with Pastor Sandra Sparks, officiating. Vault interment will take place at Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA, is in charge of arrangements.” (Spokesman-Review: 1-02-2005)**

Browiak: ( b. 1925, d. 1987)   Elizabeth Browiak of Spokane, born in Oregon and reared at Ritzville, passed away Tuesday at Spokane Valley Hospital. She was 61. She graduated from Ritzville High School and from WSU. She taught in Odessa for a time and at Dryden, Wapato and Waitsburg before moving to Spokane during the 1950s. Miss Browiak was girls counselor at Central Valley High School for more than 20 years, and retired in 1979. She is survived by a sister, Julia Carver, of Spokane. Graveside service was held early Wednesday afternoon at the Ritzville Memorial Cemetery, Hazen & Jaeger Funeral Home of Spokane in charge.” (Odessa Record: 4-02-1987)

Bruihl, Infant (d.1927)"The small son of W R Bruihl died Dec 29. Burial took place in Ritzville. Benge news item" (Journal Times: 1-06-1927)

Burghard: ( b.1925, d. 1993)  “Service for Harvey J. ‘Jim’ Burghard is planned for 1 p.m. Monday at the Philadelphia Congregational Church in Ritzville, WA,followed by burial at the Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. Danekas Funeral Home of Ritzville is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Burghard, a retiredRitzville farmer, died Thursday. He was 68. He was born near Ritzville and was raised in the Ritzville area. He attended school in Ritzvilleand graduated from Ritzville High School in 1943. Mr. Burghard farmed with his parents before taking over the operation. He married Verna R. Laib in 1953. They made their home on the farm. During winters, he did electrical work for Tom Underwood and Cliff Ahern. He turned over the farming operation to his son, Brian Burghard, in 1970 because of health reasons. Mr. Burghard retired in 1976. His wife died in 1978. He married Ruth Spencer in 1985, and they made their home on the farm. He entered the Life Care Center in Ritzville in 1989. Mr Burghard was a member of the Philadelphia Congregational Church and was past president of the Ritzville Eagles Aerie. Survivors include his wife, at the home; two daughters, Gail Mahoney of Spokane and Nancy Phillips of Chattaroy; a son, Brian Burghard of West Richland, WA; four brothers, Herb Burghard of Odessa, WA; Donald Burghard of Moses Lake; Virgil Burghard of Oregon City, OR; and Raymond Burghard of Ritzville; four sisters, Mona Meise of Odessa, Shirley Conover of Spokane; Betty Hughes of Moses Lake; and Viola Arlt of Ritzville; and 5 grandchildren.” (scrapbook item)

Cady: ( b. Dec 21, 1949, d. Oct 20, 1970)  Gary R. Cady, 20, an army gunner serving his second tour in Vietnam, was killed Oct 20 in the crash of two helicopters. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert M Cady, 2820 Stone, Spokane, former Ritzville residents. Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. tomorrow at the Danekas chapel. A detachment of 16 men from Ft Lewis will be here to be pall bearers and furnish the color guard and firing squad for full military rites at Ritzville Memorial Cemetery.  Gary was born Dec 21, 1949 in Ritzville. He moved with his parents to Springdale, north of Spokane, when he was five. Later he attended Mead High School, Spokane.  He enlisted in the service in 1967. He served a tour in Vietnam in 1968-69. He served several months in Germany before beginning his second Vietnam tour last Labor Day. His rank was Specialist Sergeant 4. The place of his death was reported as BS 535-968 Quang Ngai Province, Vietnam. Gary received the Purple Heart for wounds suffered in action Aug 8, 1968, the Bronze Star for heroism, and the Air Medal. He was stationed with Company B, 123rd Aviation Battalion, America 1 Division. Surviving are his parents, two sisters, Mrs. Ronald D (Brenda) Crosby, Spokane, Roberta Cady, at home, maternal grandmother, Mrs. Neva Cree, Moses Lake, paternal grandmother, Mrs. Sarah Cady, Ritzville. Relatives living at Ritzville include Mrs. Marvin Iltz, Mrs. Gordon Swyter and Byron Wagner, all cousins. The Rev Floyd Yokers will conduct the funeral service.” (Ritzville Journal Times: 10-24-1970; photo in original) 

Chadbourne: ( b. 1897, d. 1973)  Lee K. Chadbourne.—His home, Benge, WA. Survived by his wife M Harriet Chadbourne, Benge; one son, Donald Chadbourne of Benge; one sister, Mrs. Walter Reid, Royal City, WA; 2 brothers, Monte Chadbourne, Wenatchee, WA; Forrey Chadbourne of Royal City, WA. A member of the Benge Grange. Funeral Services, Tuesday, July 17 at 1:30 p.m. from the Chapel of the Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA. Dr Howard Stien officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery, Ritzville, WA. The Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA, in charge of arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 7-16-1973)

Clinesmith: ( b. 1905, d. 1974)  Elsie M. Clinesmith.—Resident of Benge, WA, is survived by her husband, James Clinesmith, of Benge; three sons, Harold Clinesmith, Robert Clinesmith, both of Benge, WA; and Richard Clinesmith of Malaga, Spain; 2 sisters, Gertie LaBaume and Dorothy Storment, both of Stockton, CA; one brother, Roland Honn of Benge, WA; and 6 grandchildren. She was a member of the Benge Community Church, The Benge Grange; Member of Adams County Cow Belles and Adams County Historical Society. Funeral services will be Monday, Aug 26, at 2 p.m. from the Benge Community Church, Dr Howard Stien officiating. The interment will be at Ritzville Memorial Cemetery, Danekas Funeral Home of Ritzville, is in charge of funeral arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 8-26-1974)

Danekas: ( b. Nov 5, 1936, d. Jul 31, 1964)   Dahleen (Dahl) Danekas.—Her home, Richland, WA, for the past 10 months. Formerly of Chewelah, WA. Survived by one son, David Danekas, at the home, Richland, WA. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Barney J Dahl, Chewelah, WA. A brother, Gregory B Dahl, Chewelah, WA. Member of the Delta Gamma, Delta Gamma Alumni, Pasco, WA. The First Congregational Church of Chewelah. Funeral services Monday, Aug 3 at 1 p.m. from the First Congregational Church, Chewelah, WA. Rev Norman Scruton officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery, 4:30 p.m. Aug 3. The Bryan Funeral Home, Chewelah, WA, in charge.” (Spokesman Review: 8-02-1964)( Mrs. Gary N.)

Danekas:(d. 1975)  Emily Danekas.—Her home W105 10th, Ritzville, WA.  Survived by 2 daughters, Mrs Harold (Margaret) Healy, Pullman, WA, and Mrs Dorla Vandermark, Las Vegas, NV; 2 sons, Donald Danekas, Ritzville; and Ray Danekas, Ritzville; 2 sisters, Mrs Othelia Egbers, Spokane, and Mrs Hanna Sturgeon, Hayden Lake, ID; one brother, Arthur Koch, Spokane; 9 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren. She was a member of the Zion Congregational Church of Ritzville; member of the Zenith Chapter, No. 55, OES, Ritzville; Ritzville Women’s Club; Garden Blub; Adams County Historical Society and member of the Senior Citizens. Funeral services will be Tuesday, April 15 at 11 a.m. at the Zion Congregational Church, Ritzville, with the Rev Donald Blanchette officiating. Interment, Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. The Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA, in charge of arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 4-15-1975)

Danekas: ( b. Dec 6, 1913, d. Jan 30, 1999) Norma Oliver Danekas, a 40-year resident of Ritzville, passed away at her home Jan 30, 1999. She was 85.  She was born Dec 6, 1913, at Walla Walla, where she went on to graduate from high School in 1931. She later attended Whitman College, graduating in 1938.  While there, she was vice president of the student body and was a member of the tennis team. She later taught high School in Davenport for three years, and here she met Raymond W. Danekas. They were married July 13, 1941, and the couple lived in Davenport for 20 years until moving to Ritzville in 1958.  Norma was a 49-year member and past president of the Ritzville PEO, a 63-year member of the Delta Gamma sorority, a past member of the Davenport OES and a Rainbow Girls advisor. She was also involved in the El Karnak Temple Daughters of the Nile in Spokane, as well as serving as supt of the Odessa County Public Schools from 1962 to 1965. She was active on the Education Service Dist. Board #104 from 1965 to 1977.  Norma enjoyed playing cards, spending time at their Twin Lakes summer home and being with her grandchildren.  Norma is survived by her husband Ray; one son, Bill and Dianne Danekas of Colville; two sisters and their husbands, Thelma and John Parker, and Donna and Rodney Brown, all of Walla Walla; two brothers, Donald Oliver of Yakima and Bob and his wife Beverly Oliver of Kennewick; and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her daughter, Susan Danekas Wellsandt, in 1993, and a grandson, Jason D. Wellsandt, in 1992.  Funeral service will be today at 2 p.m. at the Danekas Funeral Home Chapel in Ritzville, with Pastor Sandra Sparks officiating. Public visitation will be held there prior to the service.” Davenport Times:  2-04-1999)

 

Derr:(d. 1972)  Reuben Derr.—His home E 218 5th, Ritzville, WA. Survived by his wife Mary at the home; 2 daughters, Mrs. Marian Meise of Ritzville; Mrs. James Smith, Seattle, WA; 7 grandchildren, one great grandchild. Member of the Philadelphia Congregational Church of Ritzville. Funeral services Tuesday, Jan 11, at 2 p.m. from the Philadelphia Congregational Church. The Rev Ernest Sprenger officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA, in charge of arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 1-11-1972)

 

Dewald: (d. 1972)  Jesse L Dewald.—Home was Ritzville, WA. Survived by wife, Pauline at the home; one daughter, Mrs James (Doris) Marshall Poughkeepsie, NY; one son, John Dewald of Ritzville; one sister, Ella Linker, Walla Walla, WA; one brother, Raymond Dewald of Alberton, MT; 6 grandchildren. He was a member of Ritzville Lodge IOOF No. 58, Past Noble Grand of Ritzville Lodge No. 58. He was a member of the Jones Encampment of the IOOF Lodge, Past Adams County Commissioner, Member of the Marcellus Grange, Past Board Member of the REA. Funeral services Friday, Aug 25 at 2 p.m. from the Chapel of the Danekas Funeral Home in Ritzville. The IOOF Lodge officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery, Danekas Funeral Home of Ritzville in charge of the funeral arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 8-24-1972)  

Eckhardt: ( b. 1893, d. 1972)  “Funeral services were held Saturday March 18 for Mrs. Emilie Eckhardt, 78, who died Thursday at her Ritzville home.  Born Sept 11, 1893 in Chester, Nebraska, Mrs. Eckhardt and her husband Carl, farmed northwest of Ritzville. They moved to town in 1958, and he continued to farm until his death in 1968.  Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Bernadine Wright, Spokane; and Mrs. Donald Murray, Wenatchee; one son, Walter, Tacoma; and five sisters, including Mrs. Henry Derr, Mrs. George Kissler, and Mrs. Henry Hopp, all of Odessa, WA; Mrs. Harry Smith, Ritzville; and Mrs. Jack Hagelganz, Portland, OR.  Eleven grandchildren and five great grandchildren also survive. Mrs. Eckhardt was a member of the Zion Congregational Church of Ritzville, Senior Citizens, Mary Circle, and the Grandmother’s Club. Funeral services were held on March 18 from the Zion Congregational Church, with Rev Martin Ernst officiating.  Interment was in the Ritzville Memorial Cemetery, with Danekas Funeral Home of Ritzville in charge of arrangements.” (Odessa Record: 3-23-1972)

Eckhardt: (d.1973)  Jacob Eckhardt.—His home, E 201 6th, Ritzville, WA. Survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. Marguerite McCrorey, Spokane, Mrs. Mary Wiona, Ephrata, WA; 2 sons, William Eckhardt, Ritzville, John Eckhardt, Harrington, WA; one sister, Mrs. G .B. Fast, Ritzville, WA; 10 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren. He was a member of the Zion Congregational Church at Ritzville, F&AM Lodge No. 101 of Ritzville, El Katif Shrine of Spokane; Sage Shrine Club Ritzville. Funeral services Monday, Feb 26 at 2 p.m., from the chapel of the Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, the Rev Donald Blanchette officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. Danekas Funeral Home,Ritzville, WA, in charge of arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 2-26-1973)

Edwards: (d. 1972)  Samuel Everett (Skee) Edwards.—Home was E205 6th Avenue, Ritzville, WA. Survived by wife Audrey at the home in Ritzville. One daughter, Mrs. Jack (Nancy) Stimpson, Bellevue, WA. One son Tom Edwards, Richland, WA. 6 grandchildren. Member of the Trinity Methodist Church in Ritzville. Was a retired past master of Ritzville, member of the F&AM lodge No. 101 and C J Newland American Legion Post of Ritzville. Funeral services will be Saturday, May 27 at 1 p.m. from the Chapel of the Danekas Funeral Home, in Ritzville. Rev John shirk officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery.” (Spokesman Review: 5-27-1972)

Egbert: ( b. Sep 11, 1903, d. Jul 10, 1978)  Clive Egbert passed away in a Portland, Oregon hospital July 10, 1978. His home was Spokane. He spent many years in the Marlin-Ruff area, later moving to Hartline and Almira. He later farmed near Ritzville, retiring to live in Seattle and then moved to Spokane.  He is survived by his wife, Erma, at the home; two daughters, Mrs. Marilyn Hammond, Huston, TX; Mrs. Donna Reed, Tigard, OR; one son, Eugene Egbert, Hartline, WA; two step-sons, C. E. Haugan, Harrington and Stanley Haugan, Seattle; 12 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; four brothers, Delbert Egbert and William Egbert, both of Seattle; Fred Egbert, Tacoma; Max Egbert, Santa Monica, CA. Clive was born in Iowa, Sept 11, 1903, and came to Spokane with his parents, the late Mr. and Mrs. Frank Egbert, where he attended school. He came to the Marlin area as a young man to work with his Uncle, the late Gilbert Egbert on the wheat ranch south of Marlin and at the apple orchard near town. Funeral services were Friday, July 14, 1978 at the Trinity Methodist Church in Ritzville, Pastor Rea Thompson officiating, interment at Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. Casket bearers were Cliff Ahern, Loren Griffith, R. L. Dashiell, Gene Arlt, Donald Frick and Henry Kallenberger. Attending the funeral form the Marlin area were Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Kramer, Fred Frick, Richard Goetz, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Kallenberger, and Mr. and Mrs. Donald Frick.” (Odessa Record: 7-20-1978)

Eichner: (d. 1971)  Neva L. Eichner.—Her home S906 Division, Ritzville, WA. Survived by her husband, W F (Tony) Eichner, Ritzville, WA; 3 daughters, Mrs. Ralph (Billie-Jeanne) Whited, McKingleyville, CA, Mrs. Ronald (Claudia) Grams, Ritzville, WA; Mrs. Larry (Sherie) Schafer, Seattle, WA; her mother, Mrs. Ray Waldron, Bovill, ID; one brother, Robert Waldron, Bovill, ID, 6 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren. A member of the Philadelphia Congregational Church, Ritzville, WA, and member of the Hope Circle. Funeral services Monday, June 14, at 2 p.m. from the Philadelphia Congregational Church. The Rev Ernest Springer officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. The Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA, in charge.” (Spokesman Review: 6-14-1971)

Emerson: (d. 1971)  Harriett Emerson.—Her home E2903 25th, Spokane. Formerly of Ritzville, WA. Survived by her husband, Lathie Emerson, at the home; 2 sons, Lewis Emerson, Lind, WA; Lloyd Emerson, Bethesda, MD; 2 brothers, Ray Lewis, Yakima, WA; Oliver A Lewis, South Laguena Beach, CA; 3 grandchildren. Member of the Trinity Methodist Church, Ritzville, WA, C J Newland American Legion Auxiliary, and PEO, both of Ritzville, WA. Funeral services Wed., March 17, at 1:30 p.m. from the Chapel of the Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville. The Rev Joseph Castle officiating. Interment at the Ritzville Memorial Cemetery, Danekas Funeral Home of Ritzville, WA, in charge of arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 3-17-1971)

Erickson:( b. Apr 15, 1893, d. Sep 6, 1969)  Arthur A. Erickson.—His home, Benge, WA. Survived by his wife, Lillian Erickson, at the home. One daughter, Mrs. Lois Taylor, Benge, WA; one brother, Lawrence Erickson, Kennewick, WA. A member of the Lutheran Church, The Benge, WA, Grange, a veteran of W W I, a member of the Brotherhood of Railroad SP & S. Funeral services Tuesday, Sept 9, at 2 p.m. from the Chapel of the Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA, the Rev Floyd Yokers officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA, in charge of funeral arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 9-09-1969)  

Evans: ( b. Nov 21, 1944, d.  Sep 23, 1962)  Bob Evans, 17, of Ritzville, passenger in the car driven by Kenneth Anderson, who also died, was killed near Odessa on Sunday. The report received in Odessa said that Anderson, Evans and Miss Kautz were trapped in the Anderson car, which rolled over twice and caught fire. Frantic rescue efforts failed and the three bodies were charred almost beyond recognition. (notes from Odessa Record: 9-27-1954)*

Evans: ( d. 1969)  Gertrude Evans.—Her home, S505 Adams, Ritzville. Survived by one son, Wesley Evans of Ritzville; 2 sisters, Mrs. Andrew Towers of Ritzville, Mrs. Jeannie Riley, Cleveland, Ohio; 2 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren. Member of St Agnes Catholic Church of Ritzville; the Rebekah Lodge and the Historical Society. Prayers for the dead 8:30 p.m. Sunday, March 23, St Agnes Catholic Church of Ritzville. Funeral mass Monday, March 24, 10 a.m., St Agnes Catholic Church. Father James Grant officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. The Danekas Funeral Home, of Ritzville, WA, in charge of arrangements.” (Spokesman-Review: 11-12-1969)

Evans: ( b. 1859, .d 1936)John Evans, pioneer Ritzville carpenter, died at his home there Monday. He was buried in the Ritzville cemetery Tuesday afternoon. Born in Virginia he came west at an early age. He is survived by two sons, Bob, address unknown, and Dan, Ritzville, and a daughter, Mrs. Viola Norman, Ritzville.” (Odessa Record: 11-05-1936)

Fast: ( b. 1892, d. 1970)  “Funeral was Monday for Dr George B. Fast, 78, who died at the Ritzville Memorial Hospital Oct 22. Fast, long-time veterinarian here, was born July 22, 1892 at Newton, KS. He is survived by his wife, Marguarite Fast, at home. A son, Robert, preceded him in death.  Two granddaughters live in Hermiston, Oregon, and a brother, Henry Fast, lives at The Dalles, Oregon.  He was a member of the Philadelphia Congregational Church here. Funeral was at the church with the Rev Ernest Sprenger conducting it.  Milton Sackmann san ‘Peace in the Valley’ and ‘How Great Thou Art’. Mrs. Orville Moeller was organ accompanist. Pall bearers were William Eckhardt, Donald Miller, John Miller, Gary Galbreath, Art Miller and Max Webb. Burial was at Ritzville Memorial Cemetery.” (Ritzville Journal Times: 10-29-1970)

Fellows: ( d.  1927)  Ed Fellows, age 77, was found dead in his bed at the Christ Low home in the southwest district early Friday morning. He had died sometime during the night and every indication pointed to the fact that his death was painless and came while he was asleep.  Mr. Fellows was well known to many Odessa people as he has practically made his home with the Low family for about 25 years. He was born in Peoria, IL, and came west in 1884, settling at Palouse, WA, where he first met and worked for Mr. Low. He accompanied Mr. Low when he went to Canada and remained away from the family only long enough to finish proving up on homestead he took up there. He had apparently been in good health and the day before he died did more choring about the Low place than usual and enjoyed  a hearty supper before he retired for the night. He was a kindly dispositioned old man and a friend to all who knew him.  His funeral services were held Saturday at Ritzville and interment followed in the Ritzville Cemetery.”  (Odessa Record: 12-30-1927)(NTS)   

Ferderer:  ( b. Jul 2, 1917, d. May 14, 1997)  “Funeral services for Martha Ferderer were held on Saturday, May 17, at the Danekas Funeral Home Chapel in Ritzville. Mrs. Ferderer, a native of Odessa, died on Wednesday, May 14, 1997, at the Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital in Yakima. She was 79 years old. She had been a resident of Selah for the past seven years. She previously lived in Ritzville for more than 54 years. She was the daughter of Conrad J. Kissler and Anna Marie Eckhardt Kissler, and was born July 2, 1917, near Odessa. She grew up in Lincoln County and attended Odessa schools, graduating from Odessa High School in 1936. She married Leonard Ferderer on June 3, 1936. They moved to the Horak farm 10 miles north of Ritzville and lived there for 10 years. Then they moved to the Fisher farm six miles west of Ritzville, where they lived until 1974 when they moved into town at Ritzville. They farmed until 1980. Martha continued to live in Ritzville until 1989, when she moved to Selah to be closer to her daughter, Lynette Kramer. She was a member of the Philadelphia Congregational Church of Ritzville, and of the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia. Surviving are her daughter, Lynette Fay Kramer, of Selah; a son, Merrol Lynn Ferderer, of Cheney; 7 grandchildren…; 12 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard Ferderer, in October 1979, and by four sisters. Pastor Pamela Smith and Pastor Earl Menchhofer officiated at the funeral. Concluding services and interment followed at Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. Danekas Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.” (Odessa Record: 1997)

Fode: ( b. 1902, d. Feb 13, 1990) “John G. Fode, (87).—Passed away Feb 13, 1990 in the Moses Lake Hospital. His home Ritzville, WA. Survived by his wife, Emelia Fode, Moses Lake, WA; Three sons: Ruben J. Fode, Lind, WA; Roy V. Fode, Moses Lake, WA; Robert G. Fode, Moses Lake, WA; Three daughters: Ruth E. Welch, Cheney, WA; Carol J. Benzel, Ritzville; Doris G Haase, Bakersfield, CA. Two sisters, Amelia Kramer, Ritzville, WA; Emma Floether, Odessa, WA; 14 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren. Preceded in death by three brothers and two sisters. Member Philadelphia Congregatonal Church, Lind Grange and WA Assn of Wheat Growers. Funeral Services will be held Feb 16, 1990. 11 a.m. at Philadelphia Congregational Church. Rev Paul Eaton officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, in charge.” (Spokesman: undated)

Freese: ( b. 1896, d. 1988)  Judge George Freese. Service for Adams County Superior Court Judge George H Freese, 91, will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at Zion Congregational Church in Ritzville, Wash., where he had been a member since 1901. Burial will follow at the Ritzville Memorial Cemetery with Danekas Funeral Home in Ritzville in charge.  Judge Freese died Wednesday at the Ritzville Memorial Hospital. Born in Nebraska, he came to Ritzville in 1901, graduated from Ritzville High School in 1916 and University of Idaho Law School in 1924. He formed his first law practice partnership with William O. Miller in 1927 and had his own private law practice from 1931 to 1955. He was appointed to Superior Court in 1955 by then Washington Gov. Arthur B. Langlie, retiring in 1971 at age 75. Judge Freese was a member and past president of the Ritzville Chamber of Commerce, served six years on the Ritzville School Board, was former Ritzville City Attorney and was a 50-year member of the Washington State Bar Association, also a member of the Adams County Historical Society and the Ritzville Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Survivors include two daughters, Barbara Lou Jolly of Littleton, CL, and Dena Marie Roberts of Bellevue, Wash.; one sister, Helena Freese of Spokane; and two grandsons.” (Spokesman Review: 1-22-1988)**

Friedrich: ( b. May 9, 1854, d. 1917)  "John Friedrich died at noon last Thursday, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Fred Quast, south of the city. His home was in Spokane but with Mrs. Friedrich he has been visiting at the Quast home for the preceding three weeks. Death was caused by Bright’s Disease and dropsy. The funeral was held Saturday morning at the German Methodist church, conducted by Rev L. Gaiser. Interment was made at the Ritzville Cemetery. Mr. Friedrich was born in Germany May 9, 1854, and was thus nearly 63 years of age. While a young man he immigrated to this country and was married to Miss Elizabeth Newswander 36 years ago. He resided first in Minnesota, then in Colorado, from which state he came to Washington, locating on a farm near Mansfield, which he operated until he retired to Odessa and afterwards moved to Spokane.—Ritzville Journal Times." (Odessa Record: 5-04-1917)(TS 1855)

Galbreath: ( b. 1947, d. 1989)   “Graveside service for Mark A. Galbreath, 41, will be at 9 a.m. today at the Ritzville (WA) Memorial Cemetery with Danekas Funeral Home in Ritzville in charge.. Mr. Galbreath was killed near Ritzville Friday afternoon  in a pickup/train accident apparently caused by blowing snow. Born in Spokane, he graduated from Ritzville High School in 1965, attended Yakima Community College for two years and Cal - Poly in San Luis Obispo, CA, for two years. Mr. Galbreath had been a wheat and cattle rancher since 1969 at Ritzville with his brothers… Survivors include his wife of nearly 14 years, Amy Jo (Stromberger)Galbreath, and one son, Scott Galbreath, and two daughters, Molly and Mindy Galbreath, all at the family home in Ritzville;  his mother, Alma S. Luiten, of Ritzville; and two brothers, Gary and Dal Galbreath, both of Ritzville.” (scrapbook item: 1989)  

Gard: ( b. Mar 19, 1931, d. Jul 12, 2002)  Richard E. Gard, age 71, a resident of Odessa, died Friday, July 12, 2002, at the Deaconess Medical Center in Spokane after a courageous battle with cancer. Mr. Gard was born in Gardena, CA, on March 19, 1931. He married Joyce M. Blackmore on May 23, 1970, in Carson City, NV. In 1978 they moved to a farm between Ritzville and Odessa, where they began farming. Farming was his passion until he semi-retired in 1994,after which he enjoyed fishing and traveling with his wife Joyce. They have lived the past 10 years on a farm near Odessa . He was preceded in death by a brother, Peter, a daughter, Carol Ann, and a stepson, Dan Dooley. Surviving are his wife of 32 years, Joyce M. Gard, at the home in Odessa ; two sisters, Helen Goldsmith, of Sisters, OR, and Joy Collins, of Portland ; a brother, Cecil Gard, of Winlock , WA; three sons, Randy, Clifford, and Richard Jr and wife Jolin, all of Tigard, OR; a daughter, Barbara Gard, of Cornelius, OR; stepdaughter, Rosemary Losh, of Kuna, ID; daughter-in-law, Karen Dooley, of Cornelius, OR; 10 grandchildren… Graveside services and interment were held on Wednesday, July 17, 2002, at 10 a.m. at the Ritzville Memorial Cemetery.” (excerpt of Odessa Record: July 2002)  

 

Gering: ( b. 1906, d. Jul 18,1972)  Joseph J. Gering, 65, a lifetime resident of Ritzville, and well known in the Odessa area, passed away at his home suddenly on July 18, 1972. He was born at the same home August 16, 1906.  Mr. Gering was married to Pearl Fink on July 4, 1926. The couple had seven children, three sons and four daughters, all of whom survive him, as does his wife.  Sons are Gayle of Ritzville, Sidney of Phoenix, AZ, and Dennis, of Spokane. Surviving daughters are Gladys Morales of San Francisco, CA, Joyce McDowell of Dallas, TX, JoAnn Sandberg of San Francisco, and Marcine Giordano of San Jose, CA.  He is also survived by 20 grandchildren, two great grandchildren, a brother of Monroe, WA, and four sisters, Lena Schragg of Odessa, Anna Nafziger, Colfax, Martha Moyer of Sutherlin, OR, and Nellie Hardt of Bremerton, WA.  Funeral services have been set for Saturday, July 22 at 2 p.m. at the Danekas Funeral Home in Ritzville, with Rev Tom Nace, Pastor of the Assembly of God Church officiating. Prior to his death, Mr. Gering had been employed by the U & I Sugar Co in Moses Lake.” (Odessa Record: 7-20-1972; obit was edited from original in which the name was Grening)*

German: ( b. 1840, d. 1913)  Joel H. German, 64.—His home, 110 West 5th, Ritzville, WA. Survived by his wife, Mollie German, at the home; one daughter, Mrs. Robert (Lois) Phillips, Lind, WA; one son, Tom German, Ritzville, WA; 3 brothers, Harold German, Bremerton, WA; Gilbert German, Quincy, WA; Robert German, Seattle, WA; 6 grandchildren. Member of Philadelphia Congregational Church, IOOF Lodge, Ritzville, WA; Marcellus Grange; Ritzville Gun Club. Funeral services Saturday, July 6, 11 a.m. from the Chapel of the Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA, Rev Ernest Sprenger officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery, Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, WA, in charge.” (Spokesman Review: 7-06-1968)

German: ( b. Dec 6, 1906, d. 1998)  “Funeral services for Mollie Ils German, who was raised in the Odessa area and was a resident of the Ritzville area for more than 71 years, will be held at 11 a.m. today, Thursday, July 9, at Philadelphia Congregational Church in Ritzville. Mrs. German, who was 91 years old, died on Sunday, July 5, 1998, at the Ritzville Life Care Center. She was born on Dec 12, 1906, in Walter, Russia, the daughter of Jacob and Katherine M. (Schoessler) Ils. She came to the US with her parents in 1912. They settled in Ritzville, and in 1917 they moved to a farm near Odessa. She attended Odessa area schools through the ninth grade. Mollie was confirmed in 1920 at St Matthew Church in Odessa by the Rev J. G. Eckhardt. On June 1, 1927, she married Joel Henry German at her parents’ home. Together they lived on the German farm, which they later purchased. They raised two children, a daughter, Lois, and a son Tom. In 1957 they retired and turned over the operation of the farm to their son and moved to Ritzville. Her husband Joel preceded her in death in July 1969.... Besides her husband she was preceded in death by her daughter, Lois Phillips, in 1980....” Among the survivors were: 3 sisters, Marie Scrupps, Odessa; Lydia Gettman, Bellevue; and Allie Benzel, Ritzville; and one brother, Adam Ils, Everett. Interment was in Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. (Odessa Record: 7-09-1998)

Gillette: ( b. 1867, d. Mar 26, 1936)   John C. Gillette, 69, died Friday, March 26, 1936 in Spokane, with burial at the Ritzville Cemetery. He was born in Ohio and came to this area in 1889. He is survived by one son, John Jr., in Ritzville and four daughters, Mrs. Louis Allert, Mrs. Elmer Schafer, Mrs. Clarence Oestrich, and Mrs. Reinhold Hille, and a brother Frank. (notes from Odessa Record: 4-02-1936)  

Graham: ( b. 1882, d. Feb 26, 1987)  “Funeral services for Wendla V. Graham, age 94, a resident of the Odessa Convalescent Center, were held at the chapel of Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, Wednesday morning. She had died at the local hospital on Feb 26.  Rev Albert Hausauer conducted the last rites. Interment was in the Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. Formerly of Ritzville, Mrs. Graham is survived by one son, Ivan, of Ritzville. She was a member of the Ralston Grange and a 50-year honorary life member of the Emerald Rebekah Lodge, Washtucna.” (Odessa Record: 3-03-1977)

Gross: ( b. 1886, d. 1935) John F. Gross, 51, a resident of Ritzville 30 years, who died Wednesday, was buried in the Ritzville Cemetery Friday after services in the Philadelphia Congregational church. He was stricken with heart failure while working in a well at the Carl Kohler farm, eight miles west of Ritzville.” (Odessa Record: 11-15-1935)

Gust: ( b. 1878, d. 1969)  Elizabeth Gust. 91.—Her home, 313 East Fourth, Ritzville, WA. Survived by 2 daughters: Mrs. Ida Thomas, Seattle, WA, and Miss Emma Gust, Ritzville, WA; 2 sons, Emil Gust and Rhinard Gust, both Ritzville, WA; 4 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. A member of the Philadelphia Congregational Church, Ritzville, and the Senior Ladies Aid. Funeral services April 23, Wednesday at 2 p.m. from the Philadelphia Congregational Church, Ritzville; Rev Ernest Sprenger officiating. Interment Ritzville Memorial Cemetery, The Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, in charge of arrangements.” (Spokesman Review: 4-21-1969)  

Gust: ( b. Feb 10, 1911, d. 1992) “Services for Esther L. Gust were held Feb 1 at the Philadelphia Congregational United Church of Christ in Ritzville. A graveside service at 3 p.m. was followed by Services of Remembrance. Pastors Earl Menchhofer and Pamela Smith officiated. Mrs. Gust was born to John and Lydia Reich Lobe on Feb 10, 1911, in Odessa. She was one of seven children. When she was a child, the family moved to Canada and then to Olympia before settling on a farm near Ralston. She married Emil Gust on Sept 22, 1929, at Ralston, and they made their home on the family farm there. They moved to Ritzville in 1956. Mrs. Gust was preceded in death by her husband in 1978. She moved to Moses Lake in 1988. Survivors include two sons, Melvin Gust of Ritzville, and Larry Gust, of Los Angeles; one daughter, Mrs. Marcial Heider, of Connell; one sister, Ruth Gillis, of Washtucna; three brothers, Lewis Lobe, of Ritzville; Everett Lobe, of Sequim, WA, and Gene Lobe, of Seabeck, WA; 5 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Burial was in the Ritzville Memorial Cemetery.” (scrapbook item: 1992)

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Ritzville Memorial Cemetery Obituaries, Adams County,

Washington contributed by Marge Womach to the

WAGenWeb, 2008-2009. 

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