Fern Hill Funeral Home

01/29/2026

William Thomas Brakus

William Thomas Brakus, 91, lifetime Wishkah Valley Resident and former Supervisor at the Grays Harbor Public Utility District (GHPUD), went to be with his Heavenly Father on Friday, January 23, 2026, at his home in Wishkah Valley, Aberdeen WA.

William was born on January 19, 1935, to John Ralph “Yanko” and Helen Lettia (Winn) Brakus at the family home in Wishkah Valley. He graduated from Wishkah Valley High School as Class Salutatorian in 1953, and attended University of Washington. He was called back home to come help his parents on the farm and was also pursuing carpentry. He then sought an opportunity to work in Anchorage, Alaska where he received his stamp as Journeyman Carpenter. While there, he sent his sweetheart ‘Patricia’ a letter asking her to marry him…she said ‘Yes’ and he paid for a ticket for her to travel to Alaska. On July 28, 1956, he married Patricia Lou Raub, of Hoquiam in Anchorage, Alaska. They returned after the season was over via the icy Highway from Alaska to Washington State. He found secure work with the Grays Harbor PUD where he began as a Groundsman in 1960. He completed his Line Apprenticeship and became a Lineman in 1966. In 1976, he became the Foreman of Maintenance and Operations overseeing many facets and requiring immense expertise in Electrical and Substation work. He retired from the GHPUD after 30 years in 1990.

During his lifetime, he also worked on his ranch in the Wishkah Valley with 40+ head of cattle and raising his 4 children with his wife Patricia. He enjoyed his time on the ranch, growing his own hay and even built his own shop with lumber off his property with the aid of an Alaskan Chainsaw Mill. He was the first in the valley to use Wet Baling process for straw and hay (his Grandchildren referred to them as large Marshmallows).

William had been a member of the Wishkah Valley School Board, the Wishkah Valley Volunteer Fire Dept and was an IBEW Union Lineman, where he received a service award for his 65 year commitment.

He initiated bussing children from Wishkah Valley into town for Swim lessons at the YMCA pool. He enjoyed watching football and going to local games, car races at Elma and Portland Speedways and the Oregon Ducks.

He also enjoyed figuring things out, how it ran and what made it work. It’s also worth noting that William won Excellent Rating at a State High School Forensics Tournament through the College of Puget Sound. He had natural Oratorical skills. Folks that knew him saw him as quick-witted with a lot of character.

William is survived by his wife of 69 years, Patricia L. Brakus of Wishkah Valley; a son, Gregory Brakus of Wishkah Valley; three daughters: Lisa (Jack) Plummer of Cosmopolis, WA; Cynthia (Roger) Newton of Largo, FL and Veronica Brakus of Palo Alto, CA; Seven Grandchildren: Derek Plummer, Andrea Plummer, Nathan Newton, Marissa Newton, Maria Newton, Sophia Guericke and Ariana Guericke. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Mitchell and Milton Brakus and two sisters, Rachel Brakus and Audrey Hay.

There will be a time of visitation and viewing on Saturday, February 7th from 9:30 to 10:45 AM at Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, WA. A funeral will take place at 11:00 AM at Fern Hill Funeral Home’s Chapel on Saturday, February 7th 2026. Burial will follow at Fern Hill Cemetery, Aberdeen, WA. A reception will follow in the Dorothy Mann Reception Hall at Fern Hill Funeral Home.

A message of condolence or of a memory can be left for the family at www.fernhillfuneral.com

Arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, WA.

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01/29/2026

William Michael Jurasin

Lifetime Grays Harbor resident William Jurasin peacefully passed away on January 6th with his beloved wife Debbie at his side. Also known as “Bill, Sweet William, Wild Bill, and Popsie” was born on April 11, 1948, to Philip and Mary Jurasin of Central Park. He married Linda Romine of Hoquiam in 1970. They were married 13 years and had a son and daughter. In 1986, he married Debbie Fiddler of Westport and gained another daughter and son. He has three grandchildren.

Bill graduated from Weatherwax High School in 1966. He started going to the Longshore Hall beginning as a Causal right out of High School. In 1976, at barely 10 years in the union, he was the youngest person to be promoted to Foreman on the entire west coast. He retired from the waterfront on April Fool's Day of 2004.

He built his “shop” with the help of family and friends, spending countless hours working on numerous projects. He lovingly dedicated years to building his castle for his family to call home. He was a master woodcrafter and finish carpenter building projects for local boats, friends and family. His friend Vern Heikkila nicknamed his shop “The New Croation Workshop”, as a nod to his Croatian heritage.

He loved hunting, fishing, handloading/reloading, camping, clam digging, and smoking fish. His favorite hunting trips were to Big Sky country Montana with his friends including Roger Ainsworth and his son-in-law Leonard Sunde. An avid storyteller and prankster, he loved to reminisce stories of renegade coworkers, rambunctious friends, and infamous party shenanigans.

He is survived by his wife Debbie of Westport; brother, Tom (Linda) of Chicago, Theresa Sunde of Westport; Steve (Ronda) Yahn of Ocosta; Mandy Jurasin of Portland and three grandchildren: Ryan Yahn of Lacey, Mikayla Sunde of Dallas, TX, and Nathan Yahn of Shelton. He was preceded in death by his son Matt in 1994. He also leaves behind many friends and former coworkers and the boys who came of age in our house who still call him Popsie. The family would like to thank you for your kind words and support. A celebration of life will be held this summer; the details will be announced later. Arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, Washington.

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01/24/2026

Emily Ann Sorenson

Our sweet, precious little girl, Emily Ann Sorenson, age 11, of Montesano passed away peacefully in the arms of her heartbroken parents, January 16th 2026, at Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital in Tacoma. She was born in Aberdeen, Washington July 11, 2014, to Megan Rydman and Jake Sorenson.

Emily was born with a disability that prevented her from walking and talking but we knew by her smiles and “happy eyes” what she enjoyed most.

She loved kicking and being swooshed around in her hot tub (a gift from Make-a- Wish Foundation). We would cheer her on like an Olympic swimmer and she was very proud of herself. Her backyard swing gave her many contented hours in the summer. She would look up through the branches of the walnut tree at the filtered sunlight and enjoy the breeze. She loved colorful balloons and bubbles.

Emily was a little daredevil at heart. She loved rides on the quad with her dad and squealed with delight when her mom did wheelies with her stroller. She was a typical girl when it came to talking on the telephone and enjoyed lengthy calls with Grandma Elaine, communicating in her own special way. It was easy to see by Emily’s expression that she thought her sister Hailey was the best ever and was so very proud to be her sister.

What we mostly remember about Emily is her sweet, sweet, loving heart. It shone through in sickness and in health. She was a beautiful child inside and out.

Needless to say, we are grateful that Emily is now at peace but our hearts are broken and we will miss her sweet little girl kisses more than can be imagined.

Emily is survived by her parents, Megan Rydman of Montesano, Jake Sorenson of Aberdeen and her sister Hailey Sorenson of Montesano. Her grandparents Elaine Rydman of Aberdeen, Steve and Gloria Sorenson of Hoquiam. She is also survived by her Uncle Michael Haggstrom of Aberdeen, Aunt Justine Sorenson, cousins Danica and Desi Bexten of Aberdeen, Uncle Alan Rydman of Montesano, along with numerous great aunts, uncles and cousins. Emily also had a special bear named Eddy that had been by her side since she was two. It doesn’t seem right not to mention him.

We want to give a special mention to her caregiver and now close family friend Rosa Juarez. We trusted Rosa and always knew that Emily was in safe and caring hands.

Rosa, her partner Puni, and their family have all been so loving and caring toward Emily and Hailey over the last 6 years. We were always astounded by their generosity and willingness to step in and help.

We are especially thankful for the many others who have cared for Emily over the years. The doctors and nurses at Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital made a profound impact on Emily’s life and ours. We are also grateful for Dr. White, who was always available for Emily; Harbors Home Health and Hospice; and the friends, family, coworkers, and community who encouraged, and supported us through Emily’s good times and bad.

A memorial service will be held at Immanuel Baptist Church in Hoquiam on Saturday, Jan. 31, at 3 p.m. with a dessert reception to follow. Those wishing to honor Emily may consider a donation to Mary Bridge Children’s Foundation.

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01/22/2026

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01/21/2026

Maridell Therese Hill

Maridell Therese Hill, 85, died on January 17, 2026 in Hoquiam, WA.

Maridell, born on April 13, 1940, was the first daughter of Gabriel Knutson (GK) Ness and Tina Dale Ness. She had 5 older brothers and a younger sister. Born and raised in the small town of Fordville, North Dakota, she graduated from high school in 1958. After high school, she moved to Minneapolis and worked at the Creamette factory. In the early 1960’s, she moved to Washington with her friend Claudia. She met her husband Jerry in Aberdeen and later started a family, having two children.

She worked as a waitress at various places including the Mint, Gambur’s and the Eagles. She retired from Duffy’s restaurant, after 23 years of service, in 1989.

She was involved in quilting at the church, ceramics and swimming classes. She enjoyed spending time with her family and sharing stories from her childhood.

She is survived by her daughter, Tina Vessey, son, Gerald Hill Jr (Lisa), brothers Truman Ness and Ken Ness, sister Marlys Bye, grandchildren Crosby Vessey, Amanda Vessey, Katie Wareham, Austin Hill-Todd, Megan Lockett, Lindsey Hill and six great grandchildren.

A celebration of life is to be held at the American Legion, 112 W 1st St, Aberdeen, WA on Saturday, January 24 at 2:00 pm.

Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home, Aberdeen, WA.

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01/15/2026

Helen Elizabeth Davis

Helen 'Heidi' Elizabeth Smathers Davis, 76, a longtime resident of Hoquiam, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.

Born on September 13, 1949, in Eugene, Oregon, Heid was the daughter of Warren A. and Helen Elizabeth (Nelson) Dobbin. Her early years took her from Eugene to Aberdeen, where she attended elementary school, and later moved to Randle, WA. She graduated from White Pass High School in 1967 before continuing her education at Seattle University and Seattle Central College. In her young adulthood, Heidi embraced her adventurous spirit, spending time traveling across the United States and Canada with her beloved dog, Mac. She loved telling the story of camping beside a waterfall near Lake Louise, foraging for berries with grizzly bears not far off — a memory she shared with pride and laughter. Her deep affection for animals of every kind was a constant thread throughout her life.

On August 9, 1975, Heidi married the love of her life, Jack Davis, in Longview, WA. They made their home in the Kelso/Longview area and then Forks, WA before settling back in Aberdeen/Hoquiam. Their marriage was filled with partnership, humor, and deep affection. Heidi had a generous spirit and a natural gift for connecting with others. She worked as a Paraeducator and later Registrar Assistant for the Quillayute Valley School District in Forks during the late 1990s, where she supported students with patience and kindness. She was also a long-time member of the South Bay Duck Club, a WSU Master Gardener, and a proud member of the Harbor Art Guild.

A true free spirit, Heidi found joy in the simple and beautiful things in life. She loved birdwatching, collecting crystals, painting with watercolors, and laughing along with British comedies. In her later years, Heidi was also a devoted PC gamer; Aside from word games with friends in her social network, she deeply enjoyed playing Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games with people all around the world. Her curiosity, intelligence, creativity, and gentle presence made her someone people naturally gravitated toward.

Heidi is survived by her three sons, who were the center of her world: James Davis and wife Kelsey of Lynnwood WA, Matthew Davis and wife Katie of Lynnwood, WA, and Dustin Davis of Hoquiam, WA. She also leaves behind her sisters, Joleen Roy of Onalaska, WA, and Kathy Beck of Aberdeen, WA; and five grandchildren who brought her endless pride and delight: Chasen, Blake, Mackenzie, Austin, and Finley Davis. Heidi's life was defined by love, curiosity, and a spirit that never stopped exploring. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 1:00 pm at the Rotary Log Pavilion in Aberdeen, WA.

A message of condolence or of a memory can be left for the family at www.fernhillfuneral.com

Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, WA.

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01/09/2026

01/08/2026

Barbara Agnes Hall

Barbara Agnes Hall, 83, former Grays Harbor resident, died Monday, December 22, 2025, in Graham, WA.

Barbara was born on April 24, 1942, in Aberdeen to Carl Charles and Katie Josephine (Bakotich) Wojs. She graduated from JM Weatherwax High School in 1960 and lived in numerous places.

In 1973, she moved to Denver CO, met Gary Hall (future husband) and three years later they moved to Puyallup. They were married in 1980. Barbara went to work for Boeing in Renton. She retired as an Information Processing Specialist after 20 years.

Following Gary’s retirement, they traveled around North America, then returning home to the Harbor. Gary passed away on August 30, 2007. In 2018, Barbara moved to Graham to be with her daughter Karrie until her passing.

Barbara enjoyed her family and her grandchildren, spending time with friends and playing bingo

Barbara is survived by her two daughters: Karlee Ball, of Copalis Crossing and Karrie Plourd, of Graham; a sister, Arlene (Hamilton) Edwards of Graham; Four grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

There will be a visitation on Saturday, January 10th from 9 AM to 10:30 AM at Fern Hill Funeral Home’s Chapel, followed by a Funeral at 11:00 AM at Fern Hill Funeral Home. Burial takes place at Fern Hill Cemetery, Aberdeen, WA. A reception will follow the graveside in the Dorothy Mann Reception Hall in Fern Hill Funeral Home.

A message of condolence or of a memory can be left for the family at www.fernhillfuneral.com

Arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, WA.

View Barbara Agnes Hall's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/07/2026

Richard Wes Schmidt

Richard “Rick” Wes Schmidt of Westport, Washington passed away on Monday December 15, 2025 at his home at the age of 57.

Born on September 16, 1968 in Dallas, Texas to David and Linda (North) Schmidt. Rick and his younger brother, Jacob were raised in Graham, Texas. In high school, Rick played football where he excelled and made many great memories, graduating from Graham High School in 1988. Thereafter, Rick joined the United States Army where he proudly served his country for over a decade. During his military career, he lived in Indiana, Chicago and Germany. He was a trained as a tank mechanic and retired as an Army recruiter. He was an outstanding recruiter, receiving many awards for his service. After his retirement from the military, Rick moved back to Texas, working and attending college. He then moved to Westport, Washington in search of his charter boat dream.

Rick fell in love with salmon fishing as a young boy going out with his dad on his charter boat. He was hooked and always dreamed of owning/operating his own. At age 16, he spent the summer deck handing and once again dreamed of one day owning his own boat. He earned his captains license in 2004, becoming a 3rd generation charter boat captain. Rick ran a variety of boats, fished with friends and eventually bought his own vessel.

The Blue Eyes was his pride and joy, meticulously taking care of it, especially the engine room, which he kept shiny clean. Rick loved salmon fishing, operating his boat, being on the ocean, admiring anything that had to do with boats.

On the off season, Rick worked various jobs, working on equipment at the cranberry bogs, selling Christmas trees and mechanic jobs. He also enjoyed travelling back to Texas to visit longtime close friends.

Rick was a member of American Legion, National Association of Charter boat Operators and the Westport Charter Boat Association.

Rick is preceded in death by his parents, David and Linda (North) Schmidt and his grandparents, Alvin and Dorothy North, whom he greatly cared for and deeply admired.

Rick is survived by his brother, Jake (Jen) Schmidt of Blue Springs, Missouri; nephew Payton Schmidt; nephew Carter Schmidt, girlfriend, Kim Mallonee, of Chehalis, Washington. Rick is also survived by a circle of friends who loved Rick dearly and will forever treasure his friendship.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date to honor and remember Rick. Please take a moment to share your memories for the family at www.fernhillfuneral.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, Washington.

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01/06/2026

Scott William Cameron

Scott William Cameron, 70, Westport resident and former Computer Technician, died Sunday, December 14, 2025 at Harbor Regional Health. There will be no services. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, Washington.

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01/02/2026

Phillip Marshall Booth

Phillip Marshall Booth passed away on December 21, 2025, at the age of 46. Born on September 26, 1979, in Norfolk, Virginia to Marshall and Trely Booth.

Phillip was an avid fisherman and loved to work on boats, cars, and ATV’s, known as the carburetor king. He could overcome any obstacles in his path, he was strong, funny, smart, and a critical thinker. He was an entrepreneur and always on the go, never taking a break to ensure he was able to provide for his family. Phillip went above and beyond to make people laugh with all of his funny stories. He lit up the room and left a heartfelt impression one will never forget. He was present for those in need and was a confident and brave man. Phillip was a beloved son, big brother, wonderful uncle, and a great friend to many. Most of all, Phillip was a devoted family man whose boundless love was evident in everything he did, always putting his family first. As we grieve his loss, may we hold close all the wonderful memories Phillip gave us. He is gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.

Phillip left behind 2 restaurants called Smokin' Philly’s BBQ located in Hoquiam, Washington, and Oak Burger, in Oakville, Washington. Smokin’ Philly’s became Phill’s passion, learning his smoking skills and recipes from Gary and Terrie Hedger, who own Smoke It If You Got It, out of Hoodsport, Washington. Phill worked tirelessly to incorporate new recipes and skills to deliver delicious food with compassion and southern charm for the community.

Hold your loved ones close, reach out to them often, and treasure each moment, for tomorrow is never promised.

Phillip leaves behind his loving wife, Crissan of the family home, and his 6 beautiful children: Kyrstin Williams, Parker Agnes, and Aaliyah, Leila, Phillip Jr, and Cristiano Booth; his mother, Trely Wolfe, and step-father, Gary, of McCormick, South Carolina; brothers, Joseph and Jaxson Wolfe, of McCormick, South Carolina; sister, Amanda (Michael) Ciurro, of Greenwood, South Carolina; niece, Ashley (Alek) Lucas-Nunez, of Simpsonville, South Carolina; and nephew, Alexander Booth, of San Diego, California. Phillip is reunited with his father, Marshall Booth Jr.

A funeral service was held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, Washington. Please take a moment to share your memories or notes of condolence for the family at www.fernhillfuneral.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, Washington.

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01/01/2026

The office will be closed today. We will resume our normal hours January 2nd. We want to wish everyone a safe, and happy New Year!