Rush Lane Slater

Rush Lane “Butch” Slater, 78, of Touchet, was called home to be with his Heavenly Father on February 3, 2026. He passed away at home surrounded by his family. Rush was born on July 20, 1947, to Elmer “Buck” and June (Higginbotham) Slater in Walla Walla, Washington. He was raised in Touchet, Washington, where he developed a strong work ethic and a deep love for family.

Rush graduated from Touchet High School in 1966. He attended Yakima Valley Community College, Columbia Basin Community College, and Walla Walla Community College, where he earned an associate’s degree in civil engineering. Rush enlisted in the Army Reserves, where he served as a cook and drill instructor for 5 years.

In 1965, Rush met Charlene Orchard at the Walla Walla Fair. They were married on September 7, 1968. They established their home in Touchet, Washington, and welcomed four children over the next 14 years.

In 1975, Rush went to work for Boise Cascade in Wallula, Washington. He started on the paper machine and eventually worked his way into the Power and Recovery department. After 29 years, he left Boise Cascade and later worked as a Boiler Operator at Washington State Penitentiary until he retired.

Outside of work, Rush also served as the Superintendent for the Walla Walla County Sewer District 2, a position originally held by his father, and as a Commissioner for the Walla Walla County Fire District 6. In his free time, Rush enjoyed woodworking and drafting; he was a sports enthusiast and an avid fisherman. He enjoyed attending his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and activities, and loved to watch the WSU Cougars, Seattle Seahawks, and Seattle Mariners. In his retirement, Rush reignited a deep love for fishing and spent many days and weekends, rain or shine, on the lake or river.

Rush is survived by his loving wife, Charlene; four children, Travis Slater (Lacey), Christina Olson (Grant), Todd Slater (Sarah), and Toby Slater (Stefani); his twelve grandchildren; his sisters, Beckie Martin (Pat) and Thayus Londo (Ned); and numerous nieces and nephews. Rush was preceded in death by his parents, Buck and June Slater.

Memorial services will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Assumption Catholic Church located at 2098 E Alder St, Walla Walla, Washington 99362. Rosary will be at 11:30 AM, followed by a memorial mass at 12:00 PM. Graveside internment will follow at the Touchet cemetery, and a reception will be held after the services.

Memorial contributions may be made to Touchet Educational Foundation through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W Alder St, Walla Walla, WA 99362. Friends and family are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.herringgroseclose.com.