Ivan Lee Gephart

Ivan Lee Gephart, 81

Ivan Lee Gephart, 81, of Moses Lake, WA, passed away peacefully at home on June 12, 2025.

Ivan was born in Winchester, Idaho in 1943, to Clyde and Evelyn Gephart. He grew up in Dayton, Washington, where he had many adventures and later shared countless stories about his school days, his newspaper route, and the unforgettable characters from the Dayton community.

After graduating high school, Ivan pursued many interests. He served in the Army Reserves for six years and worked for Green Giant. During this time, he bought land and began raising cattle. He studied agriculture at Columbia Basin College and completed an internship with a fertilizer company in Coulee City, WA - where he met the love of his life, Judith Vaughn. The two were married in 1969 and moved to Pasco, WA, where Ivan worked for the Chevron Pipeline.

Ivan's passion for agriculture never faded, and with Judy by his side, they moved north of Coulee City to begin ranching. It was a time full of excitement and challenge. Eventually, they traded the ranching life for farming and purchased land in Moses Lake, WA. Together, they poured their hearts into building the farm into what it is today. Over the years, Ivan raised wheat, corn, barley, and alfalfa. To help supplement the farm, he and Judy became skilled pig producers, raising high-quality animals with care and expertise.

In 2010, Ivan and Judy leased out the farm and stepped into retirement. Retirement, however, didn't slow Ivan down. He stayed busy with endless projects around the farm, cooking, and canning (he especially loved making soup), traveling, biking, hiking, researching family history, and most of all, spending time with his grandchildren. Ivan's faith was a steady source of strength throughout his life. He found comfort and community in his local church, where he was a dedicated member.

Ivan is survived by his wife of 55 years, Judith; his children Shannon (Steve) Weyant of Bonney Lake, WA, and Kent (Heidi) Gephart of Moses Lake, WA; and four grandchildren, Avery Gephart, Madelyn Weyant, Sidra (Isaac) Emanuel, and Sylvie Gephart.

His story lives on in the people he loved, the land he cared for, and the memories we carry forward.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, June 20th, at Moses Lake Bible Church.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who have supported us with kindness, care, and prayers during this time.

Please express your thoughts and memories for the family at www.kayserschapel.com. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser's Chapel of Memories.