Juanita Ethel Smets Jaime

Juanita Ethel (Smets) Jaime (81) of Wapato passed away peacefully on Tuesday March 15, 2011 in Yakima surrounded by her family. Mom was born in Yakima, Washington on August 1, 1929 to John and Ruth (Dobratz) Smets. She attended school in Yakima, Washington.Mom was 18 when she met the love of her life, our father Rudolph Payan Jaime in Wapato. They fell in love and when Rudy turned 21 they were married on

December 5, 1947 and made their home in Wapato for the past 60 years. Mom and Dad were inseparable. Mom worked seasonally for Del Monte in Toppenish and later became a floor lady where she retired. Mom loved going for rides around the Valley and making numerous trips to Reno. She loved dancing and listening to Mexican music. Once the music started, you would find her dancing non stop. When she heard Mariachi music, she would feel so content and atpeace. Mom was a dedicated wife and mother. She enjoyed being with her husband, daughters, grandchildren and friends. Juanita is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Rudy Payan Jaime; six daughters,

Donna Marie Vargas of Moxee, Betty Jean Jaime, Juanita C. Maxwell, Dorothy Jaime (Ray) Gabbard of Yakima, Ruth Angelina (Jim) Cooper of Portland and Isabelle TheresaJaime of Wapato; a sister, Gwen (Stan) Snook of Central Point, Oregon; 17 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. Mom was preceded in death by her parents, brother John Smets and son-in-law Joe Maxwell. We love you Mom and we will miss you deeply. We would like to thank Riverview Manor and Yakima Regional Hospital in the care of our mom in making her comfortable during her last moments. Viewing will be 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday March 25th at Merritt Funeral Home in Wapato. The funeral service will be 12:00 p.m. noon on Saturday March 26th at St. Peter Claver Catholic Church in Wapato. Burial will be in the Reservation Community Memorial Park in Wapato. Merritt Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences may be offered at www.merrittsfuneralhome.com