Obituary: La Rue, John St. Clair “Jack”
Age 88
He was born to Max and Clothilda La Rue October 30, 1926 in Spokane, Washington.
Jack met the love of his life Phyllis at age 15.
At North Central High School Jack was an athlete in football, track, a state shot put champion and Phyllis was a cheerleader.
After graduation, he volunteered and joined the Navy.
He served in WWII from February 1945-July 1946 and the Korean War from January 1951- March 1952 where he was aboard the USS Haven Hospital Ship in Inchon Harbor.
Jack retired from the Washington State Department of Agriculture after a long and successful career as Chief Deputy Grain Inspector.
Jack and Phyllis were married on December 26, 1947.
They were blessed to be together for 73 years.
He was a loyal and loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.
Jack was devoted to his entire family.
From age four Jack had a passion for racing pigeons.
He served as President of the Spokane Pigeon Club and a National Pigeon Club.
He assisted with starting a Junior 4-H Pigeon Club in Spokane.
He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and gardening.
His home was always a gathering site for family and friends.
Jack was preceded in death by his beloved wife Phyllis M. La Rue in January 2014 and his brother James La Rue in 1995.
He is survived by his three daughters Sandra “Sami” La Rue, Christine Erickson (Craig) and Gail Hinkle (Greg); eight grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to join us for a military memorial service to be held at Heritage Funeral Home, 508 N. Government Way, Spokane, WA 99224 on Saturday, January 17th, 11AM.
If wished, remembrances can be made to Spokane Meals on Wheels or Wounded Warrior Project (Woundedwarriorproject.com under “donate now”).