W. Lee Childers

W. Lee Childers was born on March 26, 1916 in Morton, Wash. He passed away, with family by his side, on Friday April 22, 2005, at Panorama City Retirement Community. Lee was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Mertie Metzker; his daughter, Kristine Weidert; and his 2 brothers; Dow and Byron Childers.Lee is survived by his sister, Shirley George, of Mossyrock, Wash.; brother, Sid Childers, of Fairbanks, Alaska; and daughter, Sherie Spence, of Spokane, Wash. He has 3 grandchildren; Lane Browne of Olympia, Wash; Vickey Rovig of Lynwood, Wash., and Lance Spence, of Spokane, Wash. Lee also leaves behind close friend and companion, Doris Yarbrough, many extended family members, dear friends, as well as 3 great grandchildren.Lee led a very active and robust life. After operating a Steam Donkey for Lindberg & Hobi Logging Company in the mid 1930's, he joined the US Navy and served his country for 2 years in the Philippines and Guam. Lee also worked in the Tacoma Shipyards building Liberty Ships. He was an avid businessman, creating a number of successful businesses; Central T.V. & Appliance, in Chehalis, Wash., Lee's Cafe, in Mossyrock, Wash, and Olympia Real Estate, in Olympia, Wash.Lee also enjoyed many outdoor activities; hunting, fishing, golf and camping. He also wrote a collection of fun, heartfelt and inspiring stories from his life, called "Shadows on the Snow".W. Lee Childers was an honest businessman, a loving family man, and a devoted friend to many. He will be greatly missed. Memorial services, celebrating his life, were held Saturday, April 30, 2005 in the Chapel at Panorama City. Donations may be made C/O Panorama Foundation for the Auditorium or the Benevolent Fund.