Myrlen McKinnon was born Myrlen Olive Finstad in McCleary Washington on May 19, 1928, the only child of Joseph and Josephine Martina (Disserud) Finstad.

She spent her early years on the Oregon Coast before her family moved to Richland, WA. She graduated from Richland High School and attended Eastern Washington College, where she met and married Ernest McKinnon.

Myrlen and Ernie raised their five children in Tonasket, Granger, Pullman, Warden, Prosser and Granger again. She was a working mother for much of her life, teaching first and second grade students. She helped Ernie on their apple and grape farm after retiring. When Ernie passed, she moved to the Brookdale Senior Living community in Kennewick where she made many friends, traveled, sang, laughed and was a founding member of Brookdale's weekly online news broadcast.

Myrlen kept her great memory and reasoning skills for all her 96 years, and never let age or health issues stop her from setting and achieving goals.

But her greatest accomplishments may have been her long and loving marriage to Ernie and raising a family that has remained close even into their senior years.

Marjie Peterson, of Bellevue, WA remembers her consistent example of patience, kindness, and acceptance, informed by that lively intelligence she displayed her entire life.

Roger McKinnon of Richland, WA and Honolulu, HI says Mom was the ultimate "peace keeper", who taught her family the value of mutual respect, and led by example. It is now evident in that all of her children value and love each other.

Vickie Stovall, of Bothell, WA especially appreciated her mother's equanimity. She watched us grow without feeling the need to step in and direct. She respected our different points of view without judgement.

Bonnie McKinnon, of Maple Falls, WA fondly remembers some of her mother's oft-repeated counsels, such as "if you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all" and "you'll be as happy as you decide to be." She was indeed a loving and kind person and we will miss her very much.

Scott McKinnon of Spokane, WA believes that he and his siblings were fortuitous in having such a loving, nurturing and caring mother. She will be missed immensely.

A remembrance will be held on Friday, October 4th at Marjie Peterson's residence in Bellevue. Please reach out to Marjie via Facebook or email for information and directions.

In lieu of flowers, the family will be donating any contributions received in her memory to a Granger High School scholarship fund.