Deanna Jean Cuthbertson ‘Mimi’ Hirz

Deanna Jean Cuthbertson Hirz, “Mimi,” a beloved resident of Moses Lake, Wash., passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by family, Wednesday, June 11, 2025. She was 86 years old. A joyous reunion with Ned took place on this day, which was also their 65th wedding anniversary.

Born on April 12, 1939, in Klamath Falls, Ore., Deanna was the daughter of Frederick Cuthbertson and Lenora Brown. Her family moved to Medford, Ore., when she was 6 months old, where she grew up. A graduate of Medford High School, Deanna embraced life with enthusiasm. She loved participating in school plays, she was a spirited majorette and cheerleader in the Bliss Band, and she lent her beautiful voice to the girls' choir.

Deanna became a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1954 at the age of 15. Even at age 12, before joining the church, she declared to her mother and aunt her intention to work on their family tree. Little did she know this spark would ignite one of her life's greatest callings. Beginning in 1959, Deanna dedicated her life to genealogy, meticulously indexing tens of thousands of names and passionately helping countless others discover their own family heritage. She joyfully served in many church capacities, including Stake Young Women's President and Counselor, Relief Society President, Primary President, teacher, compassionate service leader and chorister. She loved working with the youth. 

Deanna married her eternal companion, Ned Hirz, on June 11, 1960, and they were sealed for time and all eternity in the Los Angeles Temple. They began their life together in Grass Valley, Calif., in 1961, where they started their family. In March 1966, they moved to Moses Lake, Wash., after purchasing a farm in the Block 40 area. There, Ned and Deanna raised their six children, teaching them the importance of diligence and finding fun in every task. Their life on the farm was a testament to their enduring partnership and shared commitment to their family.

Nothing brought Deanna, also known as Mimi, more happiness than family gatherings and being surrounded by grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom she cherished. She was their unwavering champion, consistently encouraging them to never give up and enthusiastically cheering them through life's milestones. Mimi found pure joy in their company, always curious about their activities, deeply concerned for their welfare, and never too busy to sit and share a conversation. Beyond her profound love for her family, Deanna also loved to sing, gardening, plan fun parties, cook delicious meals, read, complete puzzles, crochet, play the piano, and do genealogy.  

Remaining to honor her memory are five sons, Brad (Ronda) Hirz, Bruce (Jackie) Hirz, Craig (Tina) Hirz, Mark (Kelly) Hirz and Scott (Mindi) Hirz, all of Moses Lake, Washington, and one daughter, Julie Roughan of Henderson, Nev.

Her legacy continues through her 21 grandchildren: Brent, Heather, Cherise, Hilary, Chayla, Amber, Ashley, Maren, Makenna, Marquel, Heidi, Megan, Josh, Matthew, Landon, Derek, Ryan, Kyle, Rachel, Casey and Nichole. She also leaves 16 great-grandchildren: Claire, Ava, Lance Jr., Elizabeth, Keegan, Jackson, Berkley, Kash, Hazel, Daxton, Krew, Emerson, Dawson, Easton, Grace and Cali, with four more babies joining the family this year. 

Deanna is also survived by her brother, Mike Cuthbertson. She was preceded in death by her eternal companion, Ned Hirz, in 2022; her parents, Lenora and Fred; and her brother, Danny.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 28, 2025, at 10 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Nelson Road Chapel, located at 1849 Nelson Road NE, Moses Lake, Wash. Interment will follow at Pioneer Memorial Gardens. 

A celebration of Deanna's life will take place that same evening Saturday, June 28, at 7 p.m., at the residence of Scott and Mindi Hirz, 12246 Road 9.5 NE, Moses Lake.

Truly a blessing to all who knew her, Deanna's profound legacy is etched in the hearts of many. Her life was a testament to loving and serving the Lord, always guided by her unwavering motto: "What would Jesus do?" She will be lovingly remembered by all.

Mom, Mimi, our love for you is eternal!

You are welcome to view the funeral service live at the following link: bit.ly/DeannaHirzService