Edward Raymond Hitchcock

Edward Raymond Hitchcock passed away peacefully in his home on Jan 28, 2023. He was the eldest son to John Raymond Hitchcock and Betty Jean (Davis) Mecham, born in San Bernardino California on January 4, 1946.

At the age of 17 he enlisted in the US Marine Corp on January 9, 1963. Ed served with the 3rd Anti-Tank Battalion as a Mechanic in Okinawa 1964-65. He was a recipient of the Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Returning to the states he met his future wife and lifelong companion Joleane K James; they were married on October 12, 1968. Living briefly in San Bernardino and Barstow California, finally moving to Hesperia, CA in 1974. They raised two daughters, Sherilyn and Jeanette Dawn.

While in California, Ed enjoyed making motorcycle runs across the desert with friends and making continued enhancements to the family home. Always in the automotive business, he was the fleet mechanic for the California Highway Patrol (CHP) out of Barstow through 1998 when he retired and moved to Washington State.

Ed took incredible pride in being a Marine, always wearing his red cap with insignia and pins when out in public. His love of Country, and love of family were unshakable. As a recognized disabled Vet, Ed was committed to supporting multiple related charities.

He was preceded in death by Grandson Christopher R Higginbotham who served in the US Army. Ed had a few dogs that were incredibly near to his heart - Bear, Tipper and Fagan.

Ed is survived by his wife Joleane, their daughters Sheri and Jeanette, and Grandchildren Cody L Higginbotham, Danielle E Shields, Samantha M Shields and Jordyn T Shields; and Great Grandchildren Jacob, Maya and Kaden Higginbotham and Olivia and Emmett Calhoon.

His love, guidance and sense of humor will be missed by family and friends.

There is a special place in our hearts reserved just for him and we are grateful for the gift his life brought to each of us. Always Remembered.

Service with military honors will be held at the WA State Veterans Cemetery at 1:00 PM on Friday, January 17, 2023.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.HazenJaegerValley.com for the Hitchcock family.