Dorre Leon Tanasse Obituary (2025)

Dorre' L. (Morrisette) Tanasse was born on September 24, 1932, in Yakima, Washington. She attended St. Paul Grade School and graduated from St. Joseph Academy in 1951. Shortly after graduation, Dorre' married Skip "Cliff" Tanasse, her best friend and high school sweetheart. They became Hop Farmer's in Moxee, where they raised their family, until Skip went to work for New York Life Insurance Company. Skip's work with NYLIC required many moves, where they enjoyed new friendships along the way. After Skip's retirement, they returned to Yakima. Dorre' took a strong interest in volunteering at Providence Hospital and soon developed the Patient Advocate program at the hospital, with her partner Sandy Seward. At that time, Dorre' became an active member of the National Society of Patient Representatives. She also helped organize and was active in the Alice Miller Guild and Providence Auxiliary, where she served as an officer in both organizations. Dorre' was a graduate of the Yakima Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program in 1992. She retired when Providence was closed and then became active in volunteering at Holy Family Church funeral lunches. One of her greatest joys was spending time with her grandchildren and serving dinners for family holiday gatherings. After Skip passed away in 2001, Dorre' enjoyed keeping up her home and spacious garden and her weekly coffee visits with her girlfriends. Dorre' is survived by her children, Ted (Bonnie) Tanasse, Jeff (Napatthita) Tanasse, Becky Tanasse-Pascua, Joel (Lynn) Tanasse, her brother Mike (Patti) Morrisette, nine grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, who lovingly called her "Gramma Cookie." She is preceded in death by her daughter, Sue Tanasse-Schenk, and grandson, Matt Mitzel. Dorre' will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to Tri-Cities Chaplaincy Hospice House or All Mutts Great and Small Dog Rescue Inc. Memorial contributions may be sent in care of Brookside Funeral Home (PO Box 1267, Moxee, WA 98936), who is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com.