Oct. 21, 1955 - July 21, 2026

Julie Harmon Esche 10/21/1955 - 7/21/2026 After successfully living with CLL (Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia) for five years, Julie’s disease transformed to brain tumors in March 2026. High dose chemotherapy was ultimately unsuccessful, and Julie passed away on July 21,2026, at 70. She was determined to live the best weeks she had enjoying her patio and the backyard she so lovingly created the past four years in her new home in Ridgefield, Washington. Many friends and family were able to spend time with her in the 18 weeks she had. Julie loved her career teaching art at both Cascade Middle School and Mark Morris High School in Longview, Washington. She always felt she was teaching more than art; tolerance, cooperation, inclusiveness, and, of course, tidiness. At the end of her 33 teaching years, retirement included travel to all the national parks in the lower 48 and a van trip to Alaska. She had hopes of many more years of camping in her new van. In retirement, Julie also brought her art to baking, decorating and creating gifts for Emma, her granddaughter. Julie was loving, spunky, determined, smart, funny and best friend to her husband of 49 years. She will be missed by many but especially her husband, Tim; her daughter, Erin Johnson, husband Josh, and granddaughter, Emma; as well as her son Ean Esche and wife Jessie Moreton. At her request, there will be no service. Earth Funeral, in Auburn, Washington, is caring for her remains where they will promote growth and renewal on the Olympic Peninsula.