Nicholas Lee Marey Obituary (2024)

Nicholas Lee Marey was born on February 1, 1936, in Toppenish, Washington, to Nickolas and Helen Marey. He married his high school sweetheart, Jeanine Early, in 1953. Lee passed away, after battling cancer for many years, on August 24, 2024. Lee grew up in the Lower Valley. He was a graduate of Wapato High School, class of 1954. He was elected Governor of Evergreen Boys State 1953, an accomplished pianist, enjoyed woodworking, and loved horseback riding in his younger years. Flying airplanes was a passion for him, as he was a licensed IFR private pilot, and enjoyed his own plane for many years. He was loving, thoughtful, ambitious, and a hard worker, and loved ballroom dancing, travelling, fishing, big band music, Vegas shows, and was very artistic. He grew up on a farm (Rowe and Marey Orchards), in which he continued to farm for 13 years. It was there that they started their family of four children. He then moved and farmed on the side, while working for SnoKist Growers, as a field consultant. He continued his career with FMC, as a farm chemical consultant for 17 years, and then another 17 years with Wilbur-Ellis. He served as a volunteer fireman with Yakima Fire District #5 and at Sawyer for over 30 years. Lee had a bright and positive presence. He will be remembered for his honest values, inspirational tidbits, and smile. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Jeanine Marey, his brother, Raymond Marey (Barbara), four children, Tony Marey, Melodee Samek (Michael), Crystal Marey (Loretta), and Tamra Marey, eight grandchildren, Desiree (Marshall), Van (Christine), Nick (Shannel), Jay (Carly), Matt, Jon, Justin (Jill) and Nicole, eight great-grandchildren, Hailey, Carter, Evan, Cali, Mindy, Whitney, Daphne, and Grayson, and of course, many close family friends. All who knew him will remember the values, love, and wisdom that he exemplified. Until we meet again! A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, September 16, 2024, at 11:00am, at Brookside Funeral Home (500 W. Prospect, Moxee, WA). A Graveside Service at Terrace Heights Memorial Park will follow. Brookside Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com.