Julian Lee Chebahtah

Monday, 17 September 2012, Julian “Ju” Lee Chebahtah, peacefully took his last breath in his home after seeing his five daughters and son. He fought a long hard battle against cancer for 6 years and never accepted the timeline the doctors gave him. He used the time God blessed him with wisely and lived each day to the fullest. He shared his wisdom and laughter with everyone he came in contact with. Ju was full-blooded Comanche from Oklahoma, born on 27 November 1952 in Arizona to William Leonard Chebahtah and Maryann Paddyacher. His grandfather was Chevato, the first to serve in the US armed forces. He served 21 years in the US Navy and retired as an Aviation Maintenance Administrationman First Class Petty Officer (AZ1) at NAS Whidbey Island, WA in 1992. He worked in the construction industry following his service and eventually moved to the Tacoma area in the late 90’s where he spent the rest of his days trying to quench his thirst for spiritual knowledge. He spent his summers soaking up the sun, reading and sharing what he learned with his friends and family. He was very strong, wise, proud, and enjoyed working with his hands. He is survived by his wife, Virdonna Chebahtah; 5 daughters, Temi Little Raven, Leanna Chebahtah, Cricket Chebahtah, Anita and husband Garrett Newman, Heather Chebahtah; son, Jason Reese; grandchildren, Darien, Jahtsa’ayna, Julian, Debonaire, Tay-Wisty; stepchildren Shannon McMahand and husband James Mikita, Sean McMahand, and Sheridan Gatewood. The viewing will be Friday, September 21, 2012 from 5:00PM to 8:00PM at Edwards Memorial Center - Lakewood, 11020 S. Tacoma Way in Lakewood, Washington. The memorial service will be held on Saturday 22 September at 1pm at Central Lutheran Church, 409 N. Tacoma Ave, Tacoma, Washington. Dinner will follow at 3pm at the Spanish Hall, 2919 E. Portland Ave, Tacoma, WA. He will be buried at sea by the United States Navy at a future date. Arrangements by Edwards Memorial 253-566-1008