Merne Louise Kimmey

(Aug. 1, 2005)

Merne Louise Kimmey, 84, of Prescott, Ariz., died Monday, Aug.1, peacefully at her home in Prescott.

Mrs. Kimmey was born, Merne Louise Murray, July 15, 1921, in Powell. She left Powell during WWII to serve as a “Rosie the Riveter” in San Diego, Calif. She was very proud of her contribution to the war effort. She lived in Costa Mesa, Calif., for many years where she raised her family of three daughters. She spent many years as a Girl Scout Leader.

In 1969, Merne moved to Prescott with daughters Janet and Cindy. She was a board member of the Prescott Valley Historical Society and was a member of the Westerners and the Prescott Outings Club.she took great pleasure from traveling extensively in her retirement years. She was preceded in death by her husband Paul Kimmey.

Survivors include her older brother, Bruce Murray of Powell. She is also survived by her three daughters: Catherine Thompson of Lummi Island, Wash., Janet Klugiewicz of Phoenicia, N.Y., Cynthia Klugiewicz of Bainbridge Island, Wash; three grandchildren – Josh Mills, Chris Mills and Erin Laycock; and one great-grandchild, Cameron Laycock.

A memorial service was held Aug. 6 at a favorite outdoor location that she and her late husband cherished. All of Merne’s daughters attended the memorial at the Mogollon Rim in Arizona. Also attending was granddaughter, Erin. Many friends from the Prescott area also attended the spreading of her ashes; and, many shared memories were a part of the reminiscence ceremony. For those who wish, donations may be made to the Lummi Island Heritage Trust, P.O. Box 158, Lummi Island, Washington 98262.