Joe Kaech Jr., age 80, died on Monday, Sept. 21, 2020, at home in Frances.
Throughout his life, Joe was a learner, teacher, traveler, friend and lover of nature.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents Joe and Lena Kaech.
Joe was born on Sept. 8 , 1940, in Frances, Washington. He grew up on the family farm there, attended Lebam Elementary School and graduated from Willapa Valley High School in 1958. He went on to college earning a B.A. and teaching credentials from Central Washington University in 1964.
He began his teaching career with the Raymond School District as a fifth grade instructor at Ninth Street Elementary and later as head teacher at Riverview Elementary. In 1968, Joe hired on with the Department of Defense School system, teaching in the Philippine Islands, Germany and England. Returning to Washington in 1971 he continued his teaching career with the Central Kitsap School District at Silverdale, Washington. Joe retired from full-time teaching in 1995 and then continued for the next 14 years as a substitute teacher for CKSD.
During his long teaching career Joe received a number of teaching awards. Among them was being selected as CKSD’s teacher of the year, nominated for the National PTA Outstanding Teachers award and was listed in Who’s Who Among American Teachers. He also received many letters from former students, principles and school superintendents for his efforts in the classroom.
Joe took an active part in the local Education Association. He held several leadership positions, was a member of the contract negation team and attended many state and national conferences. He was awarded his local association’s (CKEA) service award in recognition of his efforts to make improvements in the classroom for students and teachers. Joe recognized the value of a post high school education, so he established a scholarship to be awarded annually to a graduating senior from Willapa Valley High School.
In 2011, Joe moved to the family farm in Frances and along with his brother and sister established and maintained a tree farm. He worked with nature to make sure the tree farm was a success.
Joe enjoyed photography, reading, gardening, cutting firewood, exploring nature and traveling. His interest to learn more about the world around him led Joe to visit over 60 countries and a majority of the 50 states.
Joe was a long-time member of the Washington Education Association and the National Education Association. Being proud of his Swiss heritage, Joe was an active member of the Lewis Pacific Swiss Society.
Joe is survived by his sister Patti Gwerder, brother Dennis Kaech, special friend Darlene Sral; and many nieces, nephews and friends.
In lieu of flowers, because of his dedication to education, memorials may be sent to the Kaech ’58 Scholarship Fund or the Lewis Pacific Swiss Society Scholarship Fund, both in care of, Patti Gwerder, 331 Elk Prairie Road, Raymond, WA 98577
A memorial will be held at a later date.
Arrangements are in care of Stoller’s Mortuary in Raymond, Washington. You may visit www.StollersMortuary.com to leave condolences for the family.
