Joshua Lee Draper

Joshua Lee Draper, 30, was taken to heaven on May 31, 2012. Josh was born on Aug. 15, 1981, in Ellensburg, Wash.

In 1991, he moved to Ritzville with his mother where he began his journey through the Ritzville Schools graduating in 2000 from Ritzville High School. During this time, Josh also attended school in Yakima while with his father.

After high school, he pursued his interest in mechanics while attending the John Deere Tech program at Walla Walla Community College.

He worked as a mechanic for several years. Most recently, he worked as a ranch hand.

He is survived by two daughters, Faith Marie and Lorelai Daisy; and his parents Mary Draper Marshall and Wayne Marshall of Ritzville, and Tim and Angie Welch of West Richland. He also leaves behind sisters, Ashley, Amanda, Marcy, Jill and Andrea. Grandparents are Carol Draper of Ellensburg, Jim and Marylin Hodgeson of West Richland, and Tom and Kayla Welch of West Richland.

Along with his family, he leaves numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and many lifelong friends who will truly miss the wonderful man he was.

He was the kind of man who enjoyed time with his family, friends, being outdoors, and one who would help another in need. He was the kind of man who could spend silly time with his daughters, liven up any gathering with his wonderful laugh and still spend a quiet afternoon in the saddle with just his horse and the land.

He was the kind of man who expressed himself through his guitar and poignant voice. Josh is the kind of man who will never be forgotten and always loved.

Services will be held at the Ritzville Amphitheater at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 8, with internment at the Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will follow at the Marcellus Grange Hall. A memorial fund has been set up at US Bank in Josh Draper’s name. Danekas Funeral Home-Ritzville is entrusted with arrangements.