Joyce Eileen Mertes

Joyce was born out in the country at Rockford, Washington to Lauren and Amy Brown. She grew up in Rockford and attended Rockford schools. While growing up, she enjoyed riding her horse "Patches". She was Rockford's Rodeo Princess in 1948 and graduated that same year. After graduation she worked at the Pullman Bank in Pullman, Washington. She met her husband Ken Mertes in Pullman, Washington. They were married October 14, 1950. They began their married life in Pullman and soon Sherry was born July 15, 1951, followed by Mike on July 14, 1953, and Jeff on March 3 ,1959. Joyce and her husband Ken moved to Spokane in 1963. She worked for Meredith Gossling Supply in Spokane from 1963-1970. In 1970 Joyce and Ken moved to Moses Lake, Washington when Ken was transferred to Darigold Milk Plant. She then kept busy on the farm and began helping with Block 40 4H. Joyce and Ken became Block 40 sheep leaders and Joyce volunteered as the Block 40 4H secretary for many years. She worked for Montgomery Ward, as well as for Chuck Yarbro Auctioneers. She also worked at Moses Lake Livestock and was active in the Pinzsgauers Cattle Association. Future years led Joyce to attending and supporting her family in cattle and attended many cattle shows throughout the Pacific Northwest. Joyce's favorite pastime over the years was her crazy obsession for Bingo. She was always excited to go to the Casino in hopes of winning her fortune. She had a great love of watching Gonzaga basketball and talking about the games with her friends. She was preceded in death by her husband Ken, her parents Lauren and Amy Brown, brothers and sisters, Maurine Bliesner, Bertha Marlow, Glenn Brown, Wes Brown and Wayne Brown. She leaves behind her daughter Sherry Krasselt (Rich Bases), and sons, Mike (Bonnie) Mertes and Jeff Mertes. Grandchildren Ty (Jenny) Mertes, Cody (Shawnia) Mertes, Crystal Mertes and Michelle (Shane) Rollins. Great grandchildren, Rhett Mertes, Tillie Mertes, Trent Mertes, Theodore Mertes, Amber (Jody) Jennison, Kaylee Hammons, Mickaila Hammons and Zoe Hammons. Great-great grandson Bridger Jennison and great-great granddaughter Hazel Hamel. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Joyce Eileen Mertes

June 13, 1930 - August 9, 2023