Joe DeHoog

Joe DeHoog, a beloved man to all who knew him, passed away on

December 12, 2025 in Ephrata Washington after a short battle with cancer.

He was 86 years old. Born in 1939, Joe was the son of Leonard and

Margaret DeHoog. In 1961, Joe married Linda Henry in Norwalk,

California. Together, they raised 4 children and shared a lifetime of

memories.

Joe began his farming life behind the wheel of a hay truck and later

worked as a grain-truck delivery driver. He moved his family to Ridgefield,

Washington. There, he rented his first dairy farm until settling in Ephrata

and entering a hay-farming partnership with the Wiersma Family. Fulfilling

a long-held dream, Joe eventually established his own dairy farm, marking

the beginning of a lifelong dedication to agriculture.

Joe was a hard worker who believed in doing things the right way. He

passed that work ethic down to his children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren, leaving a legacy of grit, integrity and perseverance.

Though serious about his work, Joe was always ready with a grin or a

quick comment to lighten the moment. His humor and warmth made him

someone people naturally gravitated toward.

In 1984, Joe and his family were honored as the Grant County Dairy

Family of the Year- a recognition that reflected his success in farming as

well as the values and love that shaped his home. Joe's faith was central

to his life. He served his church as both deacon and elder, giving his time

and guidance whenever it was needed. He also loved singing in the choir

and praise team, lifting his voice in worship with the same sincerity he

brought to every part of his life.

Joe's story is one of dedication-to his family, his faith, his community,

and the land and animals he worked. His legacy lives on in the generations

who learned from him, laughed with him and loved him.

Joe is survived by his wife, Linda; two daughters Kimberly Rose and

Kristin McLaughlin; two sons Bryan DeHoog (Cami) and Michael DeHoog

(Jennifer); 7 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren; and his sister,

Margaret Buma.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings.