Fern Lempka

Born: February 26, 1909 in Gage County, Nebraska to Earl and Ethel Green.

Died: July 21, 2009 in Yakima, Washington.

Fern was raised on a farm in Nebraska, was active in sports, excelling in basketball and track. Along with her 5 sisters, she played the saxophone in their band.

Fern married Joseph Charles Lempka in St. Mary, Nebraska on October 27, 1936 and they were married 57 years. Fern and Joe had 4 children: their twins Joan and Joe, Marlyn, and Carolyn. Fern was very happy being a wife, mother, and homemaker all of her life, and worked briefly at Swan's Cafe in Fremont, Nebraska where her recipes were always in demand. Fern and Joe moved to Yakima, Washington in 1969 where she resided for 40 years.

A grand celebration for Fern's 100th birthday was enjoyed by many on February 26, 2009. She was also honored with congratulatory wishes in letters from President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, Washington Governor Christine Gregoire, and Yakima Mayor Dave Edler.

Fern will be missed tremendously by her family, friends, and favorite dog Jenny. She was preceded in death by her husband Joe and son Joe.

Viewing will be at Shaw and Sons Funeral Directors in Yakima on Thursday, July 23 from 3:00 - 7:00 pm. Her funeral service will also be at the funeral home on Friday, July 24 at 10:00 am, followed with a graveside service at Calvary Cemetery.

The family extends their "heartfelt thanks" to the caregivers of The Ponderosa Retirement Center and Willow Springs Care.