Jerry Dean Cartmell

Jerry Dean Cartmell of Yakima, 71, passed away Wednesday, July 11, 2012. He was born in Sydney Montana on September 5, 1940 to Harry and Mary (McCoy) Cartmell. He travelled throughout the west with his parents and five siblings as he grew up. In his younger years he travelled the Northwest on the rodeo circuits, riding bareback and saddle broncs.

It was at a local rodeo that he met the love of his life, Jean. They were married on April 30, 1973 in Goldendale, WA and had one daughter, Melinda. He adopted Katherine as his daughter later in life and raised his niece, Mary as part of the family. His two oldest daughters, Peggy Sue and Tammy live in Tennessee and he was active in their lives, too.

Jerry worked in many different employments during his rich life. He worked as a ranch hand, a logger, a personal bodyguard, a pack guide, and a heavy equipment operator. He enjoyed leatherwork and produced saddles for many years.

Jerry was active in his community. He helped begin the Alaska Rodeo Association and the Valley Rodeo Association. He liked to work with children with disabilities and was always there to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed help back on their feet.

In his later years, Jerry remained active, enjoying team roping, fishing and hunting. He enjoyed spending time with his “partners in crime,” Jess and Mike. Most of all, Jerry loved his family and friends very much and was there for there for them throughout his entire life.

Jerry is survived by his wife, his five daughters, his brother, and two sisters, five grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, sister, and two grandchildren.

Donations for financial support may be made to Jean Cartmell at Solarity Credit Union in Yakima.

For service information please contact Jerry’s family at (509) 972-8047 and leave message. No service information will be available until Monday, July 16, 2012 after 2 p.m.