Christine Ernestine Purcell

Christine Ernestine Purcell, 69, of Auburn, Washington, passed away on September 11, 2020 at Auburn Medical Center. Born October 23, 1950 in Tacoma, Washington, Christine was the daughter of Ernest (Ernie) Purcell, of Muckleshoot and Evelyn Robinson, of Skokomish. Orphaned at a very young age, Christine was raised by her Aunt Matilda Bob and then by her foster Mother Norma Zack. Christine married Eugene West Jr. in Tacoma, Washington, 1967 and had three children, Samantha Marie, Eugene III and Charlotte Renee. The couple later divorced. Christine went on to marry Ray Alton Orange in Tacoma, Washington, 1975 and had her last child, Alton Ely. Christine and Ray later divorced. For many years, Christine resided in Hilltop Tacoma, sometimes right across the street from her sister, Sherene. Later in life, both sisters moved to the Muckleshoot Indian Reservation. Christine stayed active right up to the end. She kept herself young by raising her grandson, Timothy West. The two were devoted to one another. You could find them together at community events, visiting with friends and family. Christine could also be found traveling with the Muckleshoot Elders Program. She would travel during the summer to NW Tribal Elders Luncheons, Canoe Journeys and once, she even flew to Crazy Horse with her sister Sherene. During the week, you could find her at the Elders Complex having lunch with nieces, nephews, and friends. Christine made friends everywhere she went. Her legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of everyone she interacted with. She is survived by three of her children, Eugene (Geno) West III, Charlotte West and Alton West. Christine’s memory will be honored by her grandchildren Alton Ray West, Tyler Martinez-Berry, Eugene West IV, Jordan West, Sierra West, Elijah West, Andrake West, Kalli West, Ely West and Timothy West and three great-great grandchildren Jade West, Yoshiyahu West and Malakai Brown. Left with precious memories are her brothers and sisters, Nelson Kahama, Helen Zack, Wynona Zack, Patty Zack, Rex Zack, Roxie Walters, Maria Antone, and Jennie Satiacum. Her nieces, Anita Berry, Regina Berry Blackburn, LeOta LaDue Berry, Shante Johnson, Wendy Burdette, Peggy Kahama, Pauline Kahama, Priscilla Kahama and Paula Mike. And finally, her nephews, Philip Purcell, Tyrone Johnson and Frank Tucker. She was proceeded in death by her daughter Samantha West, great grandson Zakari West, siblings, Sherene Berry, Vera Lynn, Lydia Tupole and Raydean Zack and great nephew Corey Berry.

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