Willard Alton Hewson

Our beloved “Pops”, “Papa”, and “Baumpy” passed away on March 23, 2022. He was born in Dickinson, North Dakota in 1932, and from about nine years of age he was raised on a farm about five miles outside of Pine City, Washington. Following graduation from high school he joined the Navy during the Korean War, spending most of his service on the USS Shelton DD-790, and ended up spending his 21st birthday on Midway Island. In 1956 he met and married Loretha “Tudie” Howard, and they raised three children. He worked as a draftsman for a lighting company until 1970 when they bought their first business, National Barricade Company of Spokane. A few years later they purchased Christian Wood Products, and then opened National Construction Supply in Pasco, Washington in the early 1980’s. Retiring in 1993, they traveled abroad and toured the United States in their motor home. Willie loved family, fishing and fun! He was a proud American, Veteran, and dedicated Washington State University Cougar fan. He wrote a book for his family, especially his grandchildren, and great grandchildren yet to be born, that contained a section called “Advice”. In it he said “If you can see your way clear to be a Washington State Cougar Fan, all the better. Also, be a good American because a lot of people have sacrificed to make this country what it is. Now it’s your turn!” Willie is survived by his wife of over 65 years, Tudie Hewson, daughters Debra Hunt and Cindy Miller, son Scott Hewson, granddaughter Nicole (Tim) Babcock, grandsons Ryan Hunt, Travis (Amanda) Hewson, and Jason (Carinn) Slavens, sister Caroline Tucker, and numerous great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. Willie is preceded in death by his parents, Emory and Mary Hewson, sisters May Hanson, Eleanor Kjack, Elaine Hubbard, and brother Elmer Hewson. Celebration of life is scheduled for 11:00 am, April 15, 2022 at Thornhill Valley Chapel, 1400 S. Pines Rd., Spokane Valley, Washington. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Willie’s life.