Deer Park, Washington, United States

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Winterfest Honored Citizen, Sue Kelsch

When I was asked to write something about Sue Kelsch, Deer Park Winterfest’s Honored Citizen, I couldn’t say “yes” fast enough. Sitting down to write, I was stunned by how much I knew and how much I didn’t know about Sue.

We were fellow employees at The Tribune in Deer Park, when I first met Sue, and she had already become a moving force in Deer Park. She worked with the students at the high school, worked for the city at the swimming pool, worked with the Deer Park Junior Miss committee, and many other groups. No matter what she did, Sue put emphasis on our children.

Along with Pat Barden, Sue created The Gazette. When Pat left the newspaper, Sue continued putting out the monthly news until she retired in 2017. Her goal with the paper was to let people know what was happening in Deer Park; covering local events and focusing on our youngest citizens whenever possible.

Sue continues to be actively involved with Deer Park by working on our Annual Settler’s Day events. Always with a warm and friendly smile, she always has time for her children, even though many of them now have adult children of their own. Caring, giving and with a generous spirit, Sue is an excellent choice to represent Deer Park as Honored Citizen at Winterfest.

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In Memory of Don/Donnie Gilmore

Donald “Donnie” Eugene Gilmore of Deer Park, Washington, passed away on June 12, 2026, at the age of 73. He was born in Spokane, Washington, on August 22, 1952. In 1973, Don enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served on active duty for two years. In 1983, he graduated with a degree in education from Eastern Washington University. Don was a beloved teacher at Springdale Elementary for 25 years. He even got to teach his two sons when they were in the fifth grade (much to their chagrin!). He retired in 2015. Don was married to Denise
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US 395 Lanes Reopened After Collision Near Monroe Road

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Roberta Anne Cade

Roberta Anne Cade

Roberta A. Cade, 81, of Deer Park, Washington, passed away on April 19, 2026. Roberta was the oldest of eight siblings, a role she carried with strength, care, and a deep sense of responsibility throughout her life. She will be remembered for her kindness, resilience, and for giving so freely to her friends and family.

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Deer Park Kicks Off Summer With Packed Weekend

Deer Park area residents can look forward to a busy weekend filled with community events, fundraisers, and live entertainment starting this Friday. Activities ranging from a downtown block party to a charity golf tournament offer something for every member of the family. The multi-day lineup includes local businesses, musicians, and charitable organizations working together to welcome the summer season.

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Luitgard Margrete Griffin

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One of a kind is what most people stated about Luitgard (Margaret), and that is truly what she was!  She was born in Bamberg, Germany, to Johann and Betty Wagner, as the second child.  She had an older brother, Hans, and a younger sister, Elfriede.

Luitgard was trained as a seamstress in school and worked making men’s suits, among other things. She met the love of her life, Albert Leroy Griffin, in 1951, and they were married on December 6th, 1952.

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Local Scholar Abram J. Lyons Earns Doctorate in Social Welfare

Claymont, Delaware — Abram J. Lyons’s family proudly announces that he has earned his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Social Welfare from the University of Pennsylvania, marking a significant milestone in his academic and professional career.

Dr. Lyons began his academic career at Loon Lake Grade School and graduated from Deer Park High School in 2005. He went on to earn his Associate of Arts degree from Spokane Falls Community College and his Bachelor of Science from the University of Idaho before serving as a Peace Corps volunteer in Western Ukraine.

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This Weekend, Bounce Around Deer Park For Settlers Fun

Starting this Friday, Deer Park’s Settlers Day weekend features many old and new events to keep you hopping around town. People can see a lively parade, rodeo, fire station demonstrations, youth baseball tournaments, and a farm swap. Food vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities throughout the town. Additionally, there’s an opportunity to give back at a Special Olympics fundraiser, complete with water fights involving local fire and law enforcement personnel.

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Slideshow: WinterFest 2025

Deer Park’s WinterFest 2025 brought the community together with fun traditions like outhouse races, a bustling craft fair, and live music. Check out our online gallery.

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