Gertrude Elizabeth “Joan” Magruder

September 8, 1925 – December 30, 2011

Joan was born on September 8, 1925 in Roslyn, WA to Richard and Mary Lucille (Aristornic) Lucas, she claimed the title of “The Original Coal Miner’s Daughter”. Joan was raised in Roslyn where she camped “up Fish Lake”. She was a high jumper in High School, upon high school graduation she lied about her age to get into nursing school. After earning her RN license, she married Army Sergeant Virgil “Mac” Magruder (who retired as a Major) and they travelled the world, welcoming 4 sons and 2 daughters along the way. Joan and Mac settled in Redmond, WA on “Magruder Mountain”, where another son joined the clan. Joan had a distinguished career as a nurse, opening and running several local nursing homes. After retiring, Joan spent her time playing bridge, socializing at the Eagles, betting on the horses at Emerald Downs, playing “taxi-grandma” and rooting for “her” Mariners. Joan was a strong-headed woman with a memory sharp as a tack and long as a mile. She was hard headed but had a soft heart for her family: “2 lovely daughters and 5 sons” and over 20 grandchildren and great grandchildren, who will all miss her quick wit and no nonsense attitude. She is lovingly survived by her children: Randy (Leslie) Magruder, Michael Magruder, Jeffrey (Eunice) Magruder, Patricia O’Brien, Rebecca Wise, Richard (Heather) Magruder and Thomas (Michele) Magruder and all of their children. Sisters Alice Matla and Barbara Georgeson, brothers George and Elmer (Joanne) Lucas; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Graveside services will be held Saturday, January 7, 2012, 11:30 at the Roslyn VFW cemetery.Affordable Funeral Care of Ellensburg, WA is entrusted with arrangements.

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