Marion Mildred “Babe” Banks Sulgrove passed away on August 10, 2022, at the Prosser Memorial Hospital in Prosser, Washington. Babe was 83 years old and passed away just one month after her beloved husband, Emmett, had passed. Marion had experienced a sudden stroke that took her quickly, however, we as a family, believe that she passed away from a broken heart, as she and Emmett had been married for 64 years. Life just wasn’t the same without him.
Marion’s father, Oroville lovingly named her “Babe” when she was a little girl, and the nickname ultimately stuck for the rest of her life. Babe was raised in Springdale, attended school there, and she soon met the love of her life, Emmett. Babe and Emmett were married in Coeur D’ Alene, Idaho in 1958. Together, they raised their three sons and a daughter in the Springdale area.
Babe was a loving, and caring mother who was very proud of her family. Her whole world revolved around her children, as well as her grandchildren. Some of Babe’s favorite memories was when close friends and family members would stop by and share what was happening in their lives. Babe had a very patient and caring personality, and she would give words of wisdom to those she loved. She was a great listener, and she would always speak her mind with grace and honesty.
Babe was a paraprofessional for 14 years at the Springdale School District. She was also a veterinarian assistant for 12 years at the Deer Park Veterinary Clinic. Both of her jobs were very fitting for her, as she loved the sweet, innocence of children and animals. Babe was truly happiest in life when she would work with animals and children.
When Babe wasn’t working, she enjoyed tending to her flower beds, baking, and caring for her home. She enjoyed watching sports, and she was a huge fan of the Gonzaga Bulldogs men’s basketball team. She would also look forward to watching Professional Bull Ridings, and rodeos on TV. Most of all, Babe loved attending her grandchildren’s sporting events.
Babe was an active community member who was a member of the Springdale Frontier Days Rodeo committee as well as the Women’s Club. After retiring, Babe could be found on her front porch visiting with friends and family members, sipping lemonade.
She is survived by her son, Tom Sulgrove of Valley, Washington, son Dan Sulgrove (wife Leslie) of Springdale, Washington, son Brad “Kim” Sulgrove (wife Mary) of Valley, Washington, and daughter Vicki Wentz (husband Craig) of Prosser, Washington and sister Marjorie Sulgrove of Spokane, Washington. 12 grandchildren, and 7 great- grandchildren. Proceeded in death by Father, Oroville Banks, Mother Mildred “Millie” Keeney, and brother Jack Banks.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, August 25th at 11:00 AM at the Springdale Community Church, with desserts to follow, and graveside services later in the day. Memorial contributions can be made to the Springdale Community Church, 420 Main Street, Springdale, WA 99173.
