Jacquelyn Joy Punches

Jacquelyn Joy Punches,  was born on October 3, 1934 in Portland to Leland Roy and Audrey H. (Kirkwood) Ramsey. The family moved to La Grande when she was just a child.  She received her education at the St. Anthony Academy in Pendleton.  She was part of the class of 1952.  

On January 1, 1952 she was married to Norman Eugene Punches at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in La Grande. Together they raised three children, Pamala, Roderick, and Kimberly. The family was very involved in the La Grande swim club while they were young.

Jacque, as she was best known, worked for Bohnenkamps True Value, Moon Drug Store and Hallmarks Furniture Store, which began a career at Globe Furniture that lasted over 20 years until her retirement.

Jacque was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church in La Grande.  She enjoyed arts and crafts such as stained glass, embroidery but mostly she loved her flower gardening.  She was a devoted fan of the Portland Trailblazers and was able to attend several of their home games.

Relatives who remain are her children, Pam Thompson and her partner Patrick Vaughn of La Grande, Rod Punches and his wife Kenna of Boardman; grandchildren, Tyler Punches, Aimee Jones and her husband George, and Sara Thompson.

Besides her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, a brother Bill Brasure, a daughter Kim Hickman and a grandson Beau Rasmussen.

Jacque passed away Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at her home in La Grande.

Contributions in memory of Jacquelyn Punches may be made to the Blue Mountain Humane Association, 3212 Hwy 30, La Grande, OR  97850.