Julie was born on June 26, 1939, in Mullan, Idaho to Oscar and Eva Nelson, the youngest of three girls. She grew up in the Mullan, Wallace, and Pritchard, Idaho area. She moved to Spokane with her mom and sister Shirley when she was 9, and attended grade school, Libby Jr. High and graduated from Lewis and Clark High School. Julie went on to the University of Idaho for two years as an Art major.

She returned to Spokane in 1959 to help her mom and worked various jobs, one of which was at the Crescent Department Store in the Credit Department. That is where she met Bob Kees. They began dating and were married on April 8, 1961, and they raised three children together over the following years.

Julie was a very talented and creative homemaker, stretching a paltry household budget for miles. Her number one priority was her children and the family home.  Even though the money was sparse, Julie always made sure her children had hearty meals, clean clothing, and the family home was warm and welcoming.

In 1973, Julie began her career as an administrative assistant working at St. Augustine's Church in the Religious Education department. She was very dedicated to the parish and remained there for 32 years until her retirement.

Julie loved collecting antiques, doing crossword puzzles, refinishing old furniture, and all types of artworks, including tole painting, calligraphy, decoupage, oil and watercolor painting, greeting card making, and floral arranging. Just a few months ago, she made all the table center pieces and corsages for her granddaughter Kayley's wedding.

Julie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 46 years, Bob, daughter Kim, and sister Shirley. She is survived by her oldest sister Margie Skantel, younger brothers Ron and Byron Beauchene, son Kraig (Gayle), daughter Kathy, grandchildren Kayla and Kory (Ali) Kees, Kayley (Joseph) Taylor, Daniel and Cassandra Howell, great granddaughter Karoline Taylor, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude and appreciation to the kind, caring and loving staff at Rockwood Retirement South Hill. In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial contribution to the Rockwood Resident's Foundation - Employee Financial Assistance fund, 2903 E. 25 ^th Avenue, Spokane, WA. 99223.