W. Earle Johnson

W. Earle Johnson, 91, of Soap Lake and former Yakima and Lower Valley resident passed away on Sunday, July 23 at his home. Earle was born on April 8, 1915 in Taney County, Mo., the son of Ciniter Dorsal and Clio (Herd) Johnson. Earle received his education in Missouri. In the early 1930s he moved to Selah where he was an orchardist. He also owned and operated Barwoods Restaurant in Yakima. Earle moved to Mabton and founded Johnson Kennels, which he operated for twelve years. Earle built Nendel's Inn and Tillicum Restaurant in Sunnyside and then moved to Prosser where he owned and operated Hilltop Orchard and built Earle's Apartments, which he sold to retire in 1991. He then moved to Moses Lake and in 1994 moved to Soap Lake where he made his home until the time of his death. Earle was a member of the Lower Valley Elks #2112 and Prosser Eagles. He enjoyed all his business adventures, fishing, hunting and family gatherings.

Earle is survived by his loving companion, Dorothy Gardner of Soap Lake. Two children, Doreen (Greg) Harrington and Scott (Cindy) Gardner all of Ellensburg. Two grandchildren, Jocelyn (Jason) Robinette and Justin Gardner. Two great-grandchildren Natalie and Bobby Robinette. He is preceded in death by his parents, one daughter, Betty Cyr and five brothers and three sisters.

Graveside funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 26 at 2 p.m. at the East Prosser Cemetery under the direction of the Smith Funeral Home, Sunnyside.