Kerry Thomas Desmarais

 Kerry Thomas Desmarais
August 26, 1954 – May 22, 2025
A life defined by unwavering faith, quiet strength, and boundless ingenuity, Kerry Thomas Desmarais peacefully entered the Kingdom of Heaven on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 7:19 p.m. His final moments were a testament to the deep love he cultivated, as he was surrounded by his devoted wife, Anna, his stepdaughter Melodie, cherished friends Bob and Kristi Powers, and the compassionate care of his Hospice nurse. Kerry Thomas Desmarais was born August 26, 1954, into the heart of the Sunnyside area, Kerry's formative years were marked by an early call to
purpose. He embraced the dignity of labor, choosing to leave Sunnyside High School in the 10th grade to forge his path – a decision that laid the groundwork for a life of remarkable dedication and self-reliance. For 39 years, his home in Sunnyside stood as a testament to his steadfast commitment to family and community, his roots running deep within the very soil he knew and loved. Kerry was blessed with a heart capable of great love and companionship. His journey in love began with his marriage to Michelle Williams on February 9, 1973, in  Yakima, WA, and together they were blessed with daughters, Amy and Ashley, who brought immense joy to his life. Later, in 1995, he found a cherished soulmate in Anna Lopez of Mabton, WA. Their union on March 21, 1997, blossomed into 28 years of unwavering partnership, shared dreams, and deep devotion, building a beautiful life together in Sunnyside. Kerry's professional life wasa testament to his extraordinary ingenuity and unwavering work ethic, deeply intertwined with the very pulse of the agricultural landscape he called home. He began his journey tending to the land at Haas Ranches in Mabton, later contributing to the vital infrastructure of the Roza Irrigation District, before returning to Haas as a respected foreman. But it was his visionary spirit that truly set him apart. In 1988, he bravely launched his own enterprise, Specialty Repair and Machine, where his meticulous skill and unwavering integrity quickly earned him a loyal following. It was here that his genius truly flourished: a brilliant innovator, he conceived and patented groundbreaking inventions for the hop industry – the revolutionary Top Cutter, the DeViner and Trac Harvester. These advancements didn't merely enhance efficiency; they significantly reshaped and modernized agricultural practices, leaving an indelible mark on the industry he served with such passion. He continued his dedicated work, a true artisan and pioneer, until June 2024, when his valiant battle with cancer progressed. At the core of Kerry's being was a quiet yet deep and unwavering faith, a guiding light throughout his earthly journey. A devoted member of the Grace Church of Mabton, his commitment to Christ was reaffirmed through two baptisms, each a deeper step in his spiritual walk. His life itself was a living testament to his convictions, inspiring those around him with his calm wisdom and unwavering trust in the divine. Kerry's lasting legacy endures through the many lives he touched, most notably his beloved wife of 28 years, Anna Desmarais. He will be immeasurably missed by his cherished daughters, Amy McKinney(Steve) of Outlook, WA, and Ashley Newhouse (Keith) of Sunnyside, WA; and his devoted stepdaughters, Serina Burns (Walt) and Melodie Griffin (Kerry). His siblings carry his memory forward: Gary Desmarais of Connell, WA; Donald Desmarais of Mabton, WA; Sharon Mariotti (Steve) of Tacoma, WA; Dennis Desmarais (Linda) of Sandpoint, ID; Tom Desmarais (Audrey) of Connell, WA; Tim Desmarais (Pam) of Naches, WA; and Cindy Heydt (David) of Beverly Hills, FL; and his brother-in-law, Larry Beazley. The light of his life continues to shine through his 11 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces and nephews. He leaves a deep and abiding impact on his brother in Christ, Bob Powers, his steadfast neighbor Al Harris, and two young men he selflessly mentored, Jake and Wyatt, whose futures he helped shape with his wisdom and kindness. Kerry is now reunited in eternal rest with his parents, Jerome and Elizabeth Desmarais; his beloved sister, Debra Beazley; sister-in-laws, Rita Desmarais & Betsy Desmarais; and his stepson, Angel Lopez Jr. The family extends deepest gratitude to Anna & Charlotte of Heartlinks Hospice & Palliative Care for their compassionate care, and to Eva &Craig Carpenter of Carpenter Ranches for their unwavering support during this difficult time.
Celebration of Life Family and friends are invited to gather and celebrate Kerry’s remarkable life on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Grace Church of Mabton. A luncheon will follow in the fellowship hall, providing a time for cherished memories, comfort, and fellowship.

Those wishing to sign Kerry's online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com   Smith Funeral Home in care of arrangements. 

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