LORETTA ''GUS'' KECK

Loretta Kay ''Gus'' Keck, 43, of Benton City, Washington, passed on to a new adventure on Sunday April 18, 2004 surrounded by family, after a courageous battle with breast cancer.

Gus was born on June 29, 1960 in Richland, WA to Jim and Lida Keck.

She was a magnificent lady who had a special place in the hearts of all who crossed trails with her. She had a love for the outdoors, horses, turtles and people. When you looked into her eyes she would spark a fire of growing excitement and energy for life and fun.

Gus is survived by her sole mate and best friend Jeff Ellingsen, her daughter Nicole ''Nicci'' Hughes, 21, and son Tanner Hughes, 17, both of Richland.

Her father and mother, Jim and Lida Keck, also survive her along with one sister, Glenda Gessner, four brothers Roy and wife Becky, Linn and wife Chris, Kenneth and wife Lanell, and Dave and wife Cindy, along with many more relatives and friends.

A public memorial service will be held next to the pond at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Richland, Friday, April 23, 2004 at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in appreciation for the compassion shown for Gus, family and friends by the Tri-Cities Cancer Center, 7350 W. Deschutes, Kennewick, WA. or to the Tri-Cities Chaplaincy Hospice House, 2108 W. Entiat Ave., Kennewick, WA 99336.