205 W 5th Ave Ellensburg, WA 98926-2887
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Kittitas (pronounced 'KITT-i-tass') County is located in central Washington State. It spans from the lush forested Cascade Mountains to the upper Yakima River Valley plains and the Columbia River.
Kittitas County, WA - 05/12/2026 - The Kittitas County Coroner’s Office is inviting community members to attend a graveside service honoring individuals who came into our care through the indigent and unclaimed decedent program.
This program exists to ensure that every person is treated with dignity in death, even when no next of kin can be located, no one is able to assume responsibility for final arrangements, or financial resources are not available for burial or cremation. In these cases, the Coroner’s Office works to carry out its legal responsibilities while providing respectful and appropriate care for the deceased.
The indigent and unclaimed program serves two important purposes: to provide final disposition for those who would otherwise go without, and to recognize the inherent worth and humanity of every individual in our community.
The upcoming graveside service offers an opportunity for the public to join us in remembering those who died without family present or without the means to arrange services on their own behalf. Though these individuals may have been unclaimed or indigent at the time of death, they are not forgotten.
“Every person deserves dignity, respect, and remembrance,” said Cori McKean, Kittitas County Coroner. “This service is a way for our office and our community to pause, bear witness, and honor the lives of those who came into our care.” Community members, local officials, faith leaders, service organizations, and anyone wishing to pay their respects are encouraged to attend.
Graveside Service Information Date: May 20th, 2026 Time: 10:00am Location: IOOF Cemetery, Community Vault, 1900 Brick Rd, Ellensburg WA
Attendees are invited to join in a brief ceremony of reflection and remembrance. The service is intended to be simple, respectful, and open to all.
The Kittitas County Coroner’s Office remains committed to serving the public with compassion, professionalism, and dignity for every person and family we encounter.
Kittitas County, from the Cascades to the Columbia, and online at http://www.co.kittitas.wa.us
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Contact: Hunter KelloggChief DeputyKittitas County Coroner’s Office(509) 933-8200coroner@co.kittias.wa.us
