Emogene Marie Mayer

It is with great sadness that the family of Emogene Mayer announces her passing on Friday July 15th, 2011 after a three year battle with cancer at the age of 81, of which, she fought courageously to the very end. Emogene was born in Yakima, WA on August 25th 1929 to Guy and Marie McPherson. She graduated from Selah High School and attended to college at Northwest Nazarene. In 1951 she married Gene P. Mayer and began a family and a long glorious life perpetuated by love, compassion and her faith in God.

Emogene is survived by brother Roger McPherson of Yakima, daughter Leann Burns of Selah, grandchildren Kasey Miles of Selah, Nicholas Mayer of Seattle, Kimberly Mayer-Hill of Long Beach, Wa. and great grandchildren Riley Miles and Rainey Miles of Selah. Also numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends.

Emogene had a passion for improving the lives of those around her. She is best described as someone who helped to bring strength to the weak, confidence to the timid, compassion to the indifferent, joy to the sad and hope to the hopeless. She never judged, held a grudge or spoke one ill word about anyone. She was willing to do anything in her power to better someone's life. She always had a positive outlook and could find the good in any situation. She always gave the best advice and told the most incredible stories. Christmas was her favorite holiday and her famous Chicken n’ Dumplings where always the special request from everyone.

By nature Emogene was an entrepreneur. She was successful in real estate, small business and various other ventures of which she was passionate about. She owned the Colonial House apartments in Selah for over 50 years, was an avid antique collector and dealer and had great success “flipping houses”.

Her generosity, optimism and kind heartedness have been an inspiration to all the lives she has touched. Emogene was a truly beautiful woman in every way, her big blue eyes, impeccable style and kind heart will never be forgotten. She taught by example, always practiced what she preached, kept every promise she made and she eagerly took every opportunity to participate in activities with her family and friends as she loved to entertain. Emogene was a fantastic cook and she made the most beautiful meals. Emogene lived her life to the end with integrity and courage. She touched the lives of everyone who knew her with grace and compassion and she will be greatly missed by all. Emogene truly made this world a better place.

Mother, Grandmother and friend you are loved greatly and will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace.

Viewing will be held at the Keith & Keith Ninth Avenue Chapel on Thursday, July 21 from 4 until 8 p.m. A Celebration of life will be held at The Seasons, 101 N. Naches Ave. Yakima on Friday, July 22, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. For an online guest book and to celebrate the life of Emogene visit www.keithandkeith.com.