Josephine Marie George

October 14, 1929 - January 28, 2017

Josephine M. George (87) of Toppenish passed away on Saturday January 28, 2017 at her home. Josephine was born on October 14, 1929 to Elow and Tilix (Squeoch) Wahchumwah in Toppenish. She was raised on the Satus in the Tapashnaqit area. She went to school in Granger and lived the traditional life and held on to her ancestors traditional teachings. Josephine was a world champion traditional dancer who was known throughout the U.S. and Canada. She was a member of the Yakama Nation. Josephine is survived by three daughters, Janice (Fred) George-Hill of Pendleton, Marlene Thompson of Goldendale and Linda Meanus of Portland; three sons, Steven George of Toppenish, Craig Charley of Warm Springs, and Mike Hopinka of California; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren and nieces and nephews along with acquaintances throughout North America. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, two sisters, a brother and four sons. Dressing services will be at 9AM Monday January 30, 2017 at Colonial Funeral Home with overnight services following at the Satus Longhouse. A procession will leave the longhouse at 5AM Tuesday for burial at the Pine Creek Cemetery outside of Roosevelt. Friends can send condolences at www.toppenishfunerals.com. Colonial Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.