Maxine Elaine (Michel) Hathaway Obituary (1931 - 2021)

Maxine Elaine Michel was born August 11, 1931 in Middleton, Idaho to Richard Marion Michel and Myrtle Watkins Michel. She was blessed with two brothers Richard, Jr and Claude. She was called home to the Lord in the early morning hours of September 16, 2021. Celebration and services to be announced at a later date. Maxine attended all twelve grades in Middleton and graduated high school in May 1949. She went to work for Caldwell Auto Supply in Caldwell, Idaho. She then met Harry Miller Hathaway, the love of her life, and married him on April 20, 1952. Their union was 55 years strong upon Harry's death in June 2007. After their marriage Harry and Maxine moved to Nyssa, Oregon where Harry began working as a mechanic for the Chevrolet dealership. They had three beautiful children together, Becky Lou, Bradley Ray and Bryon Lynn. In 1957 the Hathaway family relocated to Baker, Oregon where Harry continued his career as a Chevrolet dealership mechanic. In 1963 they made the transition to business ownership operating the 10th Street Texaco service station and later the Arco service station at 2nd and Broadway Street. It was a family affair with Harry as the mechanic, Maxine as bookkeeper and grew to include both boys as they became of age. Maxine was a very active member of the Cavalry Baptist Church beginning in 1960 when she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. She was the epitome of a true Christian and tireless in her service of the Lord and an inspiration to her many friends and all her family who loved her dearly. Her family remembers her always whistling, humming hymns while going about her daily tasks. Playing hymns on her piano and singing were great joys of hers as well. She was an enthusiastic and humble volunteer in many different local organizations and got no greater pleasure in life than helping others. Maxine was an avid walker and was recognized by many Baker residents on her daily constitutionals which could range up to 10 miles. Often, during a snowstorm, people would stop and ask her if she needed a ride. With a big smile she would say "no thank you, I'm just enjoying walking". Her work ethic was legendary in the family and inherited by both Brad and Bryon. All her grandchildren and great-grandchildren adored her, she never failed to praise them for their individual strengths, and she always had time for a story, a puzzle, a game or coloring. She left a legacy of immense love and thoughtfulness within her entire family. She married Ken Grafham in 2009. She was preceded in death by her daughter Becky Lou in January 1960, her beloved husband Harry Hathaway in June 2007, and both her parents Marion and Myrtle Michel along with her brothers Richard, Jr and Claude Michel. Her spirit lives on through her son Brad Hathaway and wife Terri of Stanfield, Oregon. Son Bryon Hathaway and wife Anita of Dubois, Wyoming. Grandchildren Meagan and Jaymie Jo Hathaway, Jordan, Jade and Scout Hathaway. Great-grandchildren Gracie and Lili Hathaway, Jamine and Hudson Lemmon and Harrison Joseph Hathaway. Maxine is also survived by her beloved sisters-in-law Velma and Helen Michel and was blessed with many nieces and nephews, whom she loved dearly. She also held a special place in her heart for Kenny and Ruthie Grafham. Memorial contributions may be made to Meadowbrook Place Assisted Living and Heart and Home Hospice, both of Baker City. They may be sent in care of Gray's West & Co. Pioneer Chapel at 1500 Dewey Ave., Baker City, Oregon 97814.