William Jesse Wolfe

William Jesse “Jess” Wolfe, 69, died May 24, 2026 after a brief illness. Jess was born in Prineville, Oregon to Harvey and Janice (Martin) Wolfe. He was raised in Harrah and Wapato, graduating from Wapato Senior High in 1975. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1975-1978 at Camp Pendleton, CA.

Jess met Clarissa Nugent at Gama Foods in Harrah in 1987. They married in 1989 and had two sons, Spencer and Evan. He worked at Inland Fruit, Boise Cascade, the City of Wapato, and for himself. Jess loved his boys, barbecuing chicken, ice cream runs, cutting wood, and watching movies. He was tough, outspoken, hardworking, strong, and fiercely protective of his family.

Jess is survived by his wife of 37 years, Clarissa; sons Spencer Wolfe and Kay, Evan and Taylor Wolfe, and Justin Gaddis; sister Kathy Wolfe; grandchildren Eleanor and Hudson Wolfe; and many dear friends, including Bill, Marc, Roy, Steve, Larry, and Tim. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Janice Wolfe; his in-laws, Mike and Judy Nugent; and his life-long friends, Stan and Perry.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jess’s life on Saturday, July 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at our residence. Come share stories, an icy cold Pepsi, and barbecue—his favorite.

Valley Hills Funeral Home in Wapato is handling the arrangements.