In loving memory of our late father, Raymond "Rainbow" Azure, who passed away unexpectedly on May 25, 2022, in White Swan, WA. He was and enrolled member of the Yakama Nation and had bloodlines Chippewa; born May 3rd, 1962, Mother late Vera Mae Mesplie-Condon and Father late Raymond Baptiste Azure Sr. He was a devoted and loving husband to Varinia Hunt-Azure. Rainbow is survived by his loving children Varinia "VJ" Azure, Shaarnute Azure, Carole Azure, Brittney Azure, Veramae Azure, Justinarose Azure, grandchildren Max Metsker, Scarlett Jim, Slater Jim, Evelyn Cerda and Alyssa Cerda. He is survived by his Sisters Jean Azure-Tendoy, Joycelyn Azure and Jackie Azure and all his powwow family, cousins, nieces, nephews and students.

Rainbow had the ability to make anyone he talked to laugh and smile, had a great sense of humor. He believed in the power of positive energy and love. His own energy made people want to be around him. Among his many talents he was a champion Fancy Bustle Dancer, dancing his dance and the passion he had for it helped many heal from watching him glide and spin on the powwow arena all across the U.S.A. and Canada; meeting and making powwow family. He had his own drum group Horse Creek and would set up at several powwows to sing for the dancers. On the off season of powwows, he was an amazing teacher, he taught all over the Yakima Valley and was known as Mr. Azure or Mr. Rainbow. Teaching Math, Science and our traditional language to many of his students. His way of teaching had no age limit to who ever wanted to learn, he would teach. Rainbow found the time to be the coach of Yakama Nation Tribal School Cross Country and Track and Field team. At a young age he enjoyed running and playing basketball. You would find him right there on the court playing basketball against his students. He ended his career working at Job Corps in White Swan, WA.

Some traditional skills Rainbow learned from his parents that he passed on to his children was arts and crafts. Making necklaces, chokers, moccasins, and bustles was something he loved to do for his family and others.  Very thoughtful in his creations and passing on knowledge to the next generation. Always praying for a good day for himself, his family and anyone who asked for prayers. He was one of the kindest, unique souls on this earth and if anyone needed him for anything he would be there. A gentle father who loved his wife and children unconditionally and was always living in the moment creating memories and sharing the great love he had. Rainbow always made sure that we felt the love, that his strength would pass on to his children and grandchildren. That his faith he strongly believed in would not be forgotten. The encouragement he never stopped giving, the kind words he never stopped sharing, the laughs that will live on forever. He will forever be a role model to look up to and be remembered for all that he has taught and the impact and imprint he left in all of our hearts.

The arrangements are as followed:

May 26th leave Zillah Funeral Home and travel to Toppenish Creek Longhouse in White Swan, WA for dressing. 7pm Washut Services start.  Followed by a Midnight dinner.

May 27th Sunrise burial, following give away at Longhouse and meal.

With all the love we have, rest in peace dad. Love you always and forever.

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