Beth L Bucknum

Beth Louise Bucknum went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on May 27, 2014 in Yakima, Washington. She was born May 16, 1920 in Corvallis, Oregon to B.E. “Ted” and Bertha (Hole) Gleason. The family moved to Yakima to grow fruit in 1922 where Beth grew up attending Wide Hollow Grade School and graduating from Cowiche High School.

Beth majored in music at Washington State College and graduated with a teaching certificate. During her career she taught music, marching band, and English. She developed an effective grammar program called “You’ll Understand.” This easily understood program has been adapted by both public and private schools as well as successfully implemented by homeschooling families. While teaching in Walla Walla, Beth became the adored wife of Kenneth Bucknum on June 17, 1962. The couple moved back to Yakima in 1981 to care for her parents. They found a loving, extended family worshipping at Trinity Family Fellowship.

For several years Aunt Beth took her nieces and nephews to Bible camp where they experienced a closeness there that will never be forgotten. She will be remembered for her love of music, and the enthusiasm with which she played the guitar, accordion, organ, and piano for the enjoyment of others. She loved the out-of-doors and took pride in her garden. With her friendly smile and outgoing ways, Beth never knew a stranger. Her tremendous love for people coupled with her gift for evangelism was used by the Lord to win many to Him. Beth firmly believed that the Holy Spirit was utterly dependable and constantly exhorted others “to lean on Him and let Him handle” the many dilemmas of life.

Beth was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Don Gleason; and her sister-in-law, Phyllis Gleason. She is greatly loved and will be deeply missed. Beth is survived by her husband of 51 years and 11 months, Kenneth; the beloved son-of-her-heart, Darrick Arnold; her brother, Russel (Alene) Gleason; her sister-in-law, Joanne (Norm) Nashem; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Yakima Union Gospel Mission, P. O. Box 565, Yakima, Washington 98907. A celebration of Beth’s life will be held June 14, at 1:30 p.m. at Trinity Family Fellowship. To celebrate the life of Beth and share a memory visit www.keithandkeith.com