Weldon Leroy Taylor Jr.

Weldon Leroy Taylor, Jr. passed away on February 25, 2015 at home, surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Etta Marie, his son Justin L. Taylor, his daughter Cassie L. Taylor, granddaughter Hannah R. Halfacre, and grandsons Jacob J. Taylor and Ryan B. Taylor, all of Olympia, WA. He also leaves behind a sister, Teresa Munyer, of Ramona, CA.

Born on December 3, 1938 to Margarite May Denison and Weldon Leroy Taylor, Sr. in Crosbyton, TX, Weldon was known as “Lee” to friends and family. Never a stranger to hard work and the determination to make his own way, at nine years old Lee started working at a local grocery store where he frequently drove an old pickup to deliver groceries to local customers. In 1956 Lee enlisted in the United States Air Force, embarking on a distinguished 20 year career as an aircraft mechanic.

His military service took him around the United States and eventually the world. It was in 1964 while stationed at McChord Air Force Base that he met and fell in love with Etta Marie Palmer. They later married and together would have two children, Justin and Cassie.

After the birth of his daughter, Lee retired from the USAF and moved his family to Olympia, WA. He endeavored to share his love of the natural world with his young family by frequently, and often on a moments’ notice, packing them up in their old yellow Ambassador and taking them camping all over the great state of Washington. Neither rain nor sleet kept his family from the joys of outdoor adventuring. Lee embraced every opportunity to share with his children and grandchildren the joy of being close to nature, teaching them to be self-sufficient, strong, and grateful. These camping trips were among Lee’s most cherished memories and he often regaled all who would listen with their adventures hiking, bird watching, clam digging, and fishing.

In everything his family endeavored to do, Lee was their biggest fan, supporting them enthusiastically and wholeheartedly. From football to track, soccer to softball, Lee never missed a game. He was the first to volunteer his time, energy and know-how when you had a project or something needed fixing. And in doing so, proved time and again how resourceful and creative he truly was.

Throughout his life, Lee challenged himself personally and professionally, eventually obtaining an Associate of Arts degree from South Puget Sound Community College. As a new graduate, Lee became an employee of the state of Washington. After 20 years of service, he retired. His well-earned retirement allowed Lee to travel with his wife, spend more time with family and friends, and pursue his lifelong passion of genealogy.

Lee was a proud member of the American Legion and the VFW. He often contributed to the food bank of Olympia, the American Cancer Society, and the Christian’s Children Fund. This compassion and generosity towards those less fortunate was an inspiration to those who knew him. Lee was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. And though he has gone on ahead to blaze the trail, he will forever remain a part of those he left behind.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be sent to your local food bank.