Laura Ann Baker-Knighten (76) lifelong resident of the Grand Coulee, Washington area passed away at her daughter’s home in Okanogan, Washington. She was surrounded by family for several weeks leading up to her passing in the early morning hours of Tuesday, November 23rd, 2021.
Laura was born Monday July 23rd, 1945, in Grand Coulee, Washington to Melvin Baker and Mae Kolkman. Laura graduated from Grand Coulee High School, Class of 1963. On Saturday September 6th, 1980, Laura married the love of her life, Wesley R. Knighten, in the Grand Coulee Methodist/Community Church.
Laura’s warm, cheerful demeanor became well known and anticipated by patrons during her 26 years serving customers at the Grand Coulee Safeway. A faithful member of the St. Henry Catholic Church of Grand Coulee, Laura enriched the worship experience of fellow parishioners through her gift of music on the piano.
When not playing her piano or listening to music, Laura could often be found working amongst the flowers in her front yard. Wes and Laura’s property “looked like a park”, attended by her loyal dogs and cats. An avid photographer, seldom found without her camera near at hand, Laura enjoyed spending time looking at and organizing pictures and mementos into scrapbooks. Her hobbies included being a die-hard fan of Gonzaga University’s basketball team, collecting porcelain dolls, finding treasures and long visits via phone. Laura’s greatest joy though was spending time with her family whom she adored. Especially when spoiling her grandchildren, often stating, “What’s wrong with ice cream for breakfast?”
Laura was predeceased by both of her parents, grandson (Alex Pryor), and sister (Roxy Williams). She will be greatly missed by her loving husband of 41 years, Wes Knighten, as well as her children: Scotty, Tammy, Christy (Ugo) and Becky, 9 grandchildren, great-grandchildren: Aubrey, Avery, Riley, and Titus, including several nieces and nephews.
Laura’s Memorial Mass will take place at 12:00PM / Noon on Friday, December 17, 2021 in St. Henry Catholic Church in Grand Coulee, Washington. Her urn will be placed in Spring Canyon Cemetery in Grand Coulee, Washington, during a private family service.
Her family asks that any donations be made in Laura’s memory to either: St. Henry’s Catholic Church, 590 W. Grand Coulee Ave., Grand Coulee, WA 99133 or St. Jude Children Hospital - https://www.stjude.org
Strate Funeral Home is honored to be assisting Laura’s family.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.stratefuneral.com.
