Ethel May Ketchum

Ethel May Ketchum left our lives May 27th 2012. She was born December 6th, 1929 in Rapid City, South Dakota, to Leonard William McClellen and Alice May McClellan Classon. She moved with her family to Olympia, Washington, where she met Jack Ketchum at the age of thirteen. Years later, on April 19, 1947, she became his wife of 65 years. Living in many different cities, through many situations finally brought them to Steam Boat Island, where they raised four sons, Jack, Terry, Steve, and Cordy. They all worked at a local mink ranch helping supplement the family income. She enjoyed the company of many friends and family while taking the boys to different functions where they entertained playing music. This was something she cherished with her husband Jack. They moved to Port Angeles in 1970, buying the famous Loomis Tavern, where she worked until selling the business in 1985. Annually Ethel and Jack provided entertainment, food and all around good fun every 4th of July, which ultimately hi-lighted both of their lives. A tradition of which continues to this day. Ethel was very family oriented and enjoyed family gatherings whenever possible. She flourished in family trips to Mexico, Victoria, Arizona, Florida, and numerous other locations. Ethel was preceded in death by her father Leonard William McClennen, mother, Alice May McClennen Closson, brother, William John McClennen, sister, Philliena McClennen Jones, and brother, in-law Swede Jones.

Residing at the family home Ethel is survived by her husband of 65 years Jack Ketchum, four sons Jack Ketchum 2(Glennda), Terry L. Ketchum (Mickie), Steve L.Ketchum (Anne), Cordy L. Ketchum (Becki), sister Alice Jane Kochhalter (Mel), Eight Grandchildren, Fourteen Great Grandchildren, and one great great grandchild. A family that adored her. She was the foundation that held us all together. She will be missed immensely but live in our hearts forever.