Joe DeHoog

Joe DeHoog, a beloved man to all who knew him, passed away Dec. 12, 2025, in Ephrata, Wash., after a short battle with cancer. He was 86 years old.  

Born in 1939, Joe was the son of Leonard and Margaret DeHoog. In 1961, Joe married Linda Henry in Norwalk, Calif. Together, they raised four children and shared a lifetime of memories. 

Joe began his farming life behind the wheel of a hay truck and later worked as a grain-truck delivery driver. He moved his family to Ridgefield, Wash. There, he rented his first dairy farm until settling in Ephrata and entering a hay-farming partnership with the Wiersma Family. Fulfilling a long-held dream, Joe eventually established his own dairy farm, marking the beginning of a lifelong dedication to agriculture. 

Joe was a hard worker who believed in doing things the right way. He passed that work ethic down to his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, leaving a legacy of grit, integrity and perseverance. 

Though serious about his work, Joe was always ready with a grin or a quick comment to lighten the moment. His humor and warmth made him someone people naturally gravitated toward. 

In 1984, Joe and his family were honored as the Grant County Dairy Family of the Year- a recognition that reflected his success in farming as well as the values and love that shaped his home. 

Joe’s faith was central to his life. He served his church as both deacon and elder, giving his time and guidance whenever it was needed. He also loved singing in the choir
and praise team, lifting his voice in worship with the same sincerity he brought to every part of his life. 

Joe’s story is one of dedication to his family, his faith, his community and the land and animals he worked. His legacy lives on in the generations who learned from him, laughed with him and loved him. 

Joe is survived by his wife, Linda; two daughters, Kimberly Rose and Kristin McLaughlin; two sons, Bryan DeHoog (Cami) and Michael DeHoog (Jennifer); seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; and his sister, Margaret Buma. 

Joe was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings. 

A viewing will be held Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, from 6-8 p.m. at Nicoles Funeral Home, 157 C St. NW Ephrata, WA 98823. A funeral service will be held Jan. 3 at 11 a.m. at the Ephrata Community Church, 54 K St. SE, Ephrata, WA 98823.