Maurice (Morey) Wilken was born Feb. 13, 1933, on his grandfather’s ranch near Heppner Junction, Ore. When he was about 4, his family moved to Peshastin Creek in the Wenatchee Valley. Later they moved to Dryden where his parents established a pear orchard. He attended Dryden school, graduating in 1951. After graduation, Morey was employed by Pholman Motors in Wenatchee, working in the parts department.
          Morey was drafted into the US Army in 1953 and extended his time by one year, which allowed him to choose service in artillery. He was honorably discharged on June, 1956, having attained the rank of Sergeant.
          After discharge, he attended Western Washington University, working summers in wheat harvest in Oregon. He graduated with a Teaching Certificate in 1960, and a Master of Education in 1965. He taught 7th and 8th grades in Manson, Wash. for 10 years, purchased a small orchard, and spent summers working for the Lake Chelan Ranger District.
          While employed at the Ranger District, Morey met the love of his life, Lois Howard. They were married in July 1971, and bought a small orchard near Brewster, Wash., which they operated for 20 years.
          He worked for the Okanogan County Health District as an Environmental Health Specialist, retiring in 1995 after 9 years of service. That experience opened the opportunity to become a State Licensed Designer of septic systems, and he established “PressureLines”, a home-based business, which he operated as long as health permitted.
          In 2003, he joined the Okanogan Valley Alliance Church, and activities there became a big part of his life. He served in the AWANA mission to youth by listening to Bible verses being recited, as a Board member, and was responsible for care of church grounds.
          He is survived by his wife, Lois Wilken; step-son, Darrell Howard, Pepeekeo, HI; and step-grandson, Justin Howard, Los Angeles, Calif.; step-son, Brandt Howard, Okanogan; step-grandchildren, Cassey Howard, Pullman, Wash. and Brock Howard of Okanogan; sister, Georgia Rich of Dryden; nephew, Brad Rich (Chris) of Dryden; niece, Kimberly Rich of Yakima; and aunts, uncles and cousins.
          There will be a private graveside service held at the Okanogan City Cemetery. A memorial celebration will be held at a later date at the Okanogan Valley Alliance Church in Okanogan, Wash.
          Precht-Harrison-Nearents Chapel was in care of arrangements.