Grayce I. Christian (Calkins)

Ephrata native Grayce Christian, 94, passed away on Monday April 15, 2013 at Columbia Basin Hospital Nursing Home.

Grayce was born in Ephrata on September 27, 1918 to Ed and Mae Calkins who were Apple Orchard Farmers.

Grayce attended all of her school years in Ephrata and graduated in 1936. She then went on to Ellensburg for two years of college. While attending college she met and married Arlie C. Christian on February 11, 1938.

They were married for over 60 years before Arlie's passing. They were blessed with one daughter, Arla Mae.

Grayce worked at the U.S. Post Office in Ephrata during WWII and then worked at the Grant County Courthouse. Her final job was with WA State Dept. of Revenue retiring after 18 years.

Grayce was very active in her Rebekah Lodge being a member for 70 years. She also was active in the Senior Center and Thrift Store. She and Arlie helped to get the Thrift Store running.

After their retirements they started traveling with the RV and dogs. They toured Mexico and Guatemala and made many trips to Tennessee to visit Arlie's relatives. They were rockhounds and spent many happy times looking for the perfect rocks.

Grayce was always busy with her hands and made many beautiful things including, baskets, quilts, jewelry and many crocheted items.

Grayce is survived by one daughter Arla Mae and her husband Don Deycous of Ephrata, Granddaughter, Sandy and her husband Scott Ledgerwood of Shoreline. Three Great Grandchildren, Ryan, Bethan and Ian of Shoreline and West Seattle.

Grayce was preceded in death by her parents, Ed and Mae Calkins, her husband, Arlie and Grandson, Ed Deycous.

If desired memorials may be given to the Columbia Basin Hospital Nursing Home activities.

According to her wishes there will be no service.

Arrangements are under the direction of Chapel of Memories, Moses Lake.