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Ethel Mae DESTEFANO
UPCOMING SERVICE
Ethel DESTEFANO Obituary
Our mom, Ethel Mae Destefano, lived to be 100 years old and somehow still made us feel like we were the lucky ones. She was a beloved mother, grandmother ("Grammy"), great-grandmother, and cherished friend to anyone fortunate to know her. She passed away peacefully on July 26, 2025.
Ethel was born on November 6, 1924, in Milton, Pennsylvania, to Robert and Mary Jane Gava. Her cherished memory of serving in Washington, D.C., as personal secretary to First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt was an experience she looked back on with great pride.
She later made her home in Spokane, where she married Ray Destefano and together, they raised seven loving children. Known for her strong work ethic, she went on to enjoy a long career at Armour Star and S&P Meats, contributing across many departments, including working alongside USDA meat inspectors.
Mom loved traveling the world with Dad, spending winters in Hawaii and summers at home, poolside with family and friends. She was the heart of every gathering. Her motto was always "the more, the merrier," and she created a home where everyone felt welcome. She enjoyed her happy hour Bud, and cheering for her Mariners and Gonzaga. Her love for our family, her pride in us, and her incredible positivity taught us all how to live joyfully with grace and to welcome everyone to the table. We will continue celebrating her the way she taught us: together.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 67 years, Ray; her son, Scott; and her daughter, Shari. She is survived by daughters Josephine, Toni, Cristina (Tina), and Sandy; son Thomas; 10 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.
Our family takes comfort in knowing she is reunited with Dad likely dancing and sharing a beer, after a long and beautiful life of 100 years and 8 months. She and her sparkling blue eyes will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her wisdom, encouragement, laughter, and boundless love.
Memorial Service on September 5, 2025, at 11:15 a.m., at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake, Washington.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for Ethel DESTEFANO
Memories and Condolences
for Ethel DESTEFANO
5 Entries
William Walker
Earlier today
I only knew Ethel through stefanie I knew how much she loved her grandma she talked about her very very often so God bless the whole family I know even though she had so many years she´ll still be missed God bless you all
Al and Kris Lewis
Yesterday
Condolences to the Destefano family. May Ethel RIP! I know she will be missed by all. We were fortunate to meet Ethel this last year and was able to get to celebrate with her and some of the family at one of her favorite places to go to which was the casino. I really enjoyed watching her have a great time still being able to play at the tables. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Diane Clark Hein
Yesterday
I'm so sorry for your loss. Our mom's were very close for many years. I can remember the happy times our families spent together. Josie, I've often wondered where you are now. Rest in peace Ethel
KEN PERRY
Yesterday
To the Destefano family, our condolences go out to you.
THE PERRYS
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