Obituary of Klay McCrady

McCrady, Klay Marcus, 50, of Ritzville, Washington died Monday, October 4, 2010 near Genesse, Idaho of injuries sustained in a trucking accident. Klay was born December 5, 1959, in Spokane, Washington to Virgil and Joanne (Kessler) McCrady. After graduating Ritzville High School in 1978 he proudly joined the U.S. Army and served in the 82nd Airborne division until 1982. After a year and a half of civilian life, Klay rejoined the army and served at Fort Lewis from 1984 until 1987. Klay received numerous awards and medals for his service. Shortly after his Honorable Discharge from the Army, Klay moved back to Ritzville and worked as a farmhand. In 2000 he was hired by CHS Transportation, Inc. as a semi truck driver, where he worked until his death. Klay is survived by his wife, Kathy McCrady; children, Samantha McCrady, Rachael McCrady, Konrad McCrady, David O'Donnell (Cristin), and Nicole Schaefer . He also leaves behind his parents, brothers Kurt (Kathy) and Kole (Eva), sister Kiera (Ben) Buriak, and several nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncle and many friends. Klay was preceded in death by his Grandmother, Emma Kessler and an aunt, Donna Galbreath. Klay will be remembered foremost for his love of his children. He will also be remembered for his love of the Star Wars movies, beer, knowledge of random trivia (unmatched by anyone), anything Star Trek, his German heritage, cooking, sweets, telling stories to his family and friends (or anyone who would listen), laughter, crossword puzzles, WWII history, classic rock & blues music, the Seattle Seahawks (yes, they were robbed), fishing, baseball & golf. Klay was a member of Emanuel Lutheran Church, member and current President of the Ritzville Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #2739. Klay enjoyed sharing his knowledge and found great satisfaction as a cub scout leader and little league coach. Klay was also proud to have the distinction of being one of a few people to volunteer every year for the annual Ritzville Blues Festival. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, October 16, 2010, at 11 a.m. at Emanuel Lutheran Church in Ritzville. Internment will follow at the Ritzville Memorial Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to: Emanuel Lutheran Church at 206 S Division, Ritzville; RHS Alumni Association Scholarship Fund, P O Box 312, Ritzville or the charity of one's choice. Danekas Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements. Klay was in the middle of his life. He was a fiercely devoted father, son, brother, nephew and uncle. He was a good friend, dependable, loyal, hard working and hard playing man. He will be missed by all who knew him. His death has left a hole in our family and our hearts.