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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Obituary: Pitts, Floyd Dwayne

Age 86

PITTS, Floyd Dwayne (Age 86) Longtime resident of Colville, WA passed away on February 21, 2013 in Colville at the age of 86.

Floyd was born December 25, 1926 in Valley, WA the son of Jessie and Alice (Nile) Pitts.

Floyd spent his youth on the farm with his Aunt Alma and Uncle Verlie Pitts in Rice, WA.

He attended grade school at the Rice Country Schoolhouse before transferring to Kettle Falls, WA where he finished his education.

Floyd began working to support himself at a young age which developed a lifelong and very strong work ethic.

His youth work opportunities were varied and included assisting the Cranston family, his Aunt and Uncle Pitts and eventually his Uncle Greg at the service station.

On July 24, 1950 he married Betty Cole whom he had admired from his first glance upon her at the Snow Ball Pageant to her attendance as spectator on the city team baseball bleachers.

They moved to Soap Lake, WA where Floyd found work building irrigation canals with the Bird & Bush Company.

In 1952, they returned to N.E.

Washington where he helped to run a dairy cattle and farm operation.

He was then introduced to the timber industry and working at the Rodenbough Lumber Company in Arden.

It was in 1956 that a transfer of mill ownership opened a door of opportunity and lifetime of friendship between Floyd and Betty Pitts and Art and Bess Mikalson.

Floyd went to work for Art at Arden Tree Farms as a timber manager, a position he held until his passing.

Floyd “gave his all” with all that he did.

He enjoyed packed lunches and long days of work.

He worked hard and without complaint, saving what he could and sharing what he had.

His family values were without question and his love for his children without condition.

He never knew a stranger and offered respect to all.

Floyd’s green thumb grew bountiful gardens which he loved to share.

He took countless fishing trips and always brought a guest to share in the experience and catch of the day.

Floyd was actively involved in the N.E.

Washington Hoo-Hoo Club, Knights of Pythias, Upper Columbia Timberman’s Association and Washington Agriculture and Forestry Foundation.

He also served at the President of the Colville Rotary Club, District 3 Fire Commissioner and as a 24 year coach of the Little League baseball program.

Floyd was preceded in death by his grandson, Tony Nicholas, uncles, Francis and Verlie Pitts and his aunt, Alma.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Betty Pitts, Colville, WA; daughters, Anita Nicholas and her husband, Bruce of Warden, WA, Debbie Hunter and husband, Gene of Spokane, WA; sons, Greg Pitts of Kettle Falls, WA, Jeff Pitts and his wife, Michel of Colville; nine grandchildren, Jarrod, Jessica, Carley Jo, Alan, Rita, Brandon, Kylee, Tarren and Kora; six great grandchildren, Alex, Allison, Eden, Koltin, Luke and Lily.

The funeral service for Mr. Floyd D. Pitts will begin at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, February 28, 2013 at the Agricultural Trade Center in Colville, WA.

The graveside service and vault interment will follow at the Mountain View Park Cemetery, Colville, WA.

Pastor Shane Moffitt will officiate.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Knights of Pythias youth activities.

Please visit the online memorial and sign the guestbook at www.danekasfuneral.com.

DANEKAS FUNERAL CHAPEL AND CREMATORY is entrusted with the arrangements.