Edward Ray "Mike" Morse

Edward "Mike" Ray Morse, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded with family at age 76, on Sunday, April 22, 2018. Mike was born on June 29th, 1941, in Yakima, Washington to Alexander Davies and Mable Gladys (Broce) Morse. He grew up on a small farm in Sunnyside with his family growing grapes and asparagus. He had four siblings; Alberta, Arthur, Velma and Robert.
With an education of only the 7th grade he always said, "My eyes and ears were my best teachers." At the age of fifteen, he moved to Ellensburg to work with his brother, Art, loading and hauling hay. He never expected that this work would become his passion, and provide a lifelong career doing what he loved. When he wasn't in the truck, he enjoyed snowmobiling, wood working, tinkering in the shop, and most of all, quality time at home with his family.
In the spring of 1966, he met Judy Rae Pettigrew, and had a brief courtship before being drafted into the U.S. Army. He was stationed at Fort Lewis for basic training before leaving on October 11, 1967, to serve in the Vietnam War. Exactly one year later, on October 11, 1968, he eagerly returned home to be with his soon to be wife. Mike and Judy were married just one month later, on November 25, 1968. Together they purchased a home in the Kittitas Valley, which was the place for countless gatherings and memories throughout his life. They would have celebrated a fifty-year union this November.
Mike was a man of uncommon gratefulness. He was grateful for his home, the green grass, and the quail in the yard. He was grateful for Judy's love, unwavering support, and care. He had immense gratitude for the small things that most would overlook. Mike loved the American Flag, all that it stood for, and he has passed that passion to his family. Through living life with integrity, he earned the respect of many. He leads his family by exemplifying a strong work ethic, honesty, accountability, and endless forgiveness.
Left to honor Mike and remember his love is his wife of 49 years, Judy; their three children: Kelsey Ray (Crystal) Morse, Angela Marie (Arie) Dyk and April Kay Forgey; three children from his first marriage: Edward "Mike" Ray (Elaine) Morse Jr., Pamela Kaylin (Dan) Jackson, and Linda Jean Morse; 11 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; brother Robert (Donna) Morse; and many special nieces, nephews, and friends.
We will remember his expressive eyes, trademark grin, warm soft hands and his embrace that carried so much love. A man who was loved, honored, cherished, and greatly respected by so many.
Memorial contributions in Mike's honor can be made to Hospice Friends in care of Brookside Funeral Home, 101 E 2nd Ave., Ellensburg 98926
A service of remembrance will be held Saturday, May 12, 2018, at 11:00 a.m., at Mercer Creek Church, 1407 N B Street, Ellensburg. All are welcome.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.brooksidefhc.com.