Jennie was born December 27, 1929 in Wallsenburg, Colorado to Ignacio and Maria Aguirre, the second of nine children. At an early age, it was clear that Jennie would be Mom’s helper, always busy and a server. Six more siblings followed and Mom often talked about Jennie being kept home from school to help when Mom had a baby and on wash days. When other women in the mining camp also needed a helper, Jennie was chosen to assist. She remained a doer and hard worker till dementia took its toll in 2023 and Crescent Nursing Facility became her new home.
Jennie’s family came to Washington State in 1946 after hearing of work opportunities in the valley. They arrived in time to begin jobs in the hops and Jennie began work as a housekeeper for the Morrier family and she also worked at the Morrier hop ranch and other area hop ranches. Before long she also began cannery work and continued cannery work for many years as well as housekeeping jobs.
While still living in Colorado, Jennie met a young man, Raymond Maes and they remained in touch after Jennie moved to Yakima and while Ray served in the military. Upon his discharge, he came to Yakima and married his sweetheart. They raised two daughters, Carmelita and Margaret (Margie) both now deceased. Ray and Jennie shared much in common; cooking, canning, gardening, fishing, camping and traveling to Colorado to visit Ray’s family and friends.
Jennie and Ray were married at Templo Cristiano in Wapato and became lifelong members. Jennie was active in the Women’s Group, choir and served as Regional Secretary.
Jennie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Raymond and their two daughters. Also predeceased by siblings Joseph and Lucas Aguirre, Angie Gonzales, and Richard Aguirre. Jennie is survived by her brothers Nash Aguirre of Terrace Heights, Joe Aguirre, of Yakima and sisters Helen Aguirre and Sara Sifuentes also of Yakima. Jennie is also survived by her Grandson, Aaron Ramirez/Rosie; great granddaughters Jhniva and Jenica; Granddaughter Mary Margret Ramirez/Rolo Ibarra; Great Granddaughters Angelina, Sofia, Stella and Luciana, all of Moxee and Grandson, Jose Raul Cruz of Yakima. Also surviving Jennie are numerous nieces, nephews, as well as great and great great nieces and nephews.
Jennie’s family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Crescent Nursing Facility for the outstanding care and kindness given to our Jennie; her words “they are so good to me, always asking me if I need anything” were a comfort to us. She sincerely considered Crescent her home. Rest in Peace, Jennie, you are forever home in heaven now.