Byron Duane Cox, 78, passed away on June 26, 2019 in Yakima, Washington. He was born February 26, 1941 to Byron and Ora Cox in Lindsay, California. On July 10, 1964 ‘Duane,’ as he was known by those closest to him, married Patsy Ellen Carter, a union that lasted for 45 years. Both suffered lifelong health issues, with Patsy a childhood polio survivor, and Duane vision impaired due to the effects of diabetes. His children always said “he was her legs and she his eyes, together making a whole person” for which there were no limits.
Byron was a Craftsman of all trades, owning his own workshop, out of which he produced fine cabinetry, worked with fiberglass manufacturing and repair, and was one of the few in the area with the tools and skills to sharpen saws and knife blades. He enjoyed teaching his skills and trades to his son, nephews, and friends.
His passions included his Native American heritage, which he studied through his friends and associates. Duane would spend hours tanning hides, making drums, pipes, weaving baskets, and curing fish, all in the most traditional manner possible. He loved gardening and took pride in his ‘green thumb’ which always produced a bountiful harvest. He was also a devout Christian and a member of the Baptist Church, and until poor health prohibited it, he would even entertain as “Fuzzy Wuzzy” the Christian Clown.
Survivors include his daughter Dana Stone of Kennewick, and son David Cox of Yakima; eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his wife Patsy Cox; his parents Byron and Ora Cox; and his three sisters, Ruth Evans, Norma Hicks and Sandra Rosling.
Viewing is scheduled for Saturday, July 6, 2019 from 12:00-5:00 p.m. at Keith and Keith Funeral Home on Yakima Avenue. Funeral services for Duane will be Monday, July 8, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. at Keith and Keith Funeral Home with a procession going to West Hills Memorial Park in West Valley. A potluck gathering will follow at Michael and Doris Purdin’s, 12604 Wide Hollow Rd., Yakima.
To share a memory of Duane visit www.keithandkeith.com.
