Mary Margaret Kunkle

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Mary Kunkle, 78, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, friend and longtime member of the Moses Lake community.

Born on Nov. 23, 1947, in Dayton, Washington, to Albert and Louise Nilsson, she grew up in Dayton and graduated from Dayton High School in 1966. She went on to attend the University of Idaho, where she earned her accounting degree in 1970. During those college years, a blind date introduced her to her future husband, Stroud. The two married on March 19, 1970, beginning a life together filled with family, friendship, and shared experiences.

They welcomed their son, Aaron, in 1973 at Walson Army Hospital in New Jersey. In January 1976, the family moved to Moses Lake, Washington, where their daughter, Amanda, was born later that year at Samaritan Hospital. What was meant to be a two-year stay in Moses Lake became 50 years of friendships, community involvement and a life well lived.

Throughout her professional career, she was known for her dedication, intelligence, and strong work ethic. She worked for Grant County Seniors and in the business office at Big Bend Community College before serving as controller at Samaritan Hospital for 19 years. She later served as treasurer of Grant County PUD for 10 years.

Her commitment to her community extended far beyond her professional accomplishments. She was involved in the Basin Piecemakers Quilt Guild, Columbia Basin Duplicate Bridge, P.E.O. Sisterhood and Soroptimists. She also served 29 years on the North Central Educational Service District Board, reflecting her deep belief in the importance of education and giving back.

One of her greatest passions was quilting. An avid quilter for more than 30 years, she poured her creativity, patience and talent into beautiful works of art. Her quilts earned numerous awards at local fairs and regional quilt shows. Each quilt reflected the care, skill, and dedication she brought to everything she did.

Above all, her family was the most important part of her life. She was a proud mother to Aaron (Rose) Kunkle and Amanda (Mike) Walker and grandmother to Addison and Asher Kunkle and Grady and Charly Walker. The memories she created and the love she shared will remain with her family for generations.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no funeral service or celebration of life. She felt strongly that the time spent gathering in her honor would be better spent helping someone or something in need. It was a request that perfectly reflected the way she chose to live her life. She never enjoyed being the center of attention, preferring instead to quietly support the people and causes that mattered to her.

In honor of her memory and courageous battle with cancer, the family requests that donations be made to Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation to help support others facing this disease. 

Arrangements are under the care of Kayser's Chapel of Memories.

Please express your thoughts and memories for the family at Kayserschapel.com.