Death & Service Announcement: Linda Rae Rud-Rieff, 78, Lyle
Death & Service Announcement: Linda Rae Rud-Rieff, 78, Lyle
Linda Rae Rud-Rieff, age 78, a resident of Lyle, WA, passed away at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge on November 8, 2026.
A viewing will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, November 16, 2026, at St. Peter's Catholic Church in The Dalles, Oregon.
A Funeral Mass will follow at St. Peter's Catholic Church.
Burial will take place at 1:30 PM at Holy Trinity Cemetery in Goldendale, Washington.
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.
Obituary: Ed Ritchie, 85, The Dalles
While Ed worked hard at R &W Carpet Gallery he certainly knew how to enjoy life. A longtime member of The Dalles Country Club, he loved spending time on the golf course, where the friendships and laughter were just as important as the game itself. Above all else, Ed was a family man. He was a devoted to his beloved wife of 53 years, Sharon, until her passing in 2017, and a loving father and grandfather who would do absolutely anything for the people he loved.
And if there's a golf course in heaven, there's a pretty good chance Ed has already found his way to the first tee.
Ed Ritchie
June 19, 1941 – November 2, 2026
Ed Ritchie, 85, of The Dalles, Oregon, passed away on November 2, 2026, surrounded by his family.
Ed was born on June 19, 1941, in Twin Falls, Idaho, to Guy and Helen Ritchie. He grew up in Twin Falls and graduated from Twin Falls High School before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy. He married Sharon Ritchie on March 15, 1964, and spent 53 wonderful years with her until her death in 2017.
In 1968, Ed and his family made their way to The Dalles, where he began working at Tony's
Town & Country. He eventually found his calling in the floor covering business and went on to open R & W Carpet Gallery. Through his years in business, Ed became a familiar face in the community, building relationships and friendships along the way.
While Ed worked hard, he certainly knew how to enjoy life. A longtime member of The Dalles Country Club, he loved spending time on the golf course, where the friendships and laughter were just as important as the game itself. Whether he was having a great round or one he'd rather forget, there was always another day on the course and another story to tell.
When he wasn't golfing, Ed enjoyed traveling and camping in his motorhome, always appreciating the opportunity to get away, explore new places, and enjoy life's adventures with his companion, Sandie Nelson.
Above all else, Ed was a family man. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife of 53 years, Sharon, until her passing in 2017, and a loving father and grandfather who would do absolutely anything for the people he loved. His granddaughters held an especially treasured place in his heart, and he couldn't have been prouder of them. Their accomplishments, adventures, and happiness meant the world to him.
Ed is survived by his daughters, Tina Hinshaw and her husband Joe and Heidi Leeson and her husband Chad, as well as his son, Ryan Ritchie; and his beloved granddaughters, Ashley Kumm, Kendyl Kumm, and Hannah Hinshaw.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Sharon Ritchie; his parents, Guy and Helen Ritchie; and his brother, Eugene Ritchie.
While Ed's final round has come to an end, the memories, laughter, and love he shared will live on in the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to have known him. And if there's a golf course in heaven, there's a pretty good chance Ed has already found his way to the first tee.
A celebration of life will take place at The Grill Steak & Seafood at The Dalles Country Club on Saturday, November 21, 2026, from 12:00 - 3:00 pm on a drop in basis. Come have a drink, mingle and have a final putt for Ed.
Death Notice: Valerie Lynn Broadbent, 73, The Dalles
Death Notice: Valerie Lynn Broadbent, 73, The Dalles
Valerie Lynn Broadbent, age 73, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge on November 7, 2026.
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.
Death Notice: Linda Lee Taylor, 79, Hood River
Death Notice: Linda Lee Taylor, 79, Hood River
Linda Lee Taylor passed away on November 7th, 2026, in Hood River, OR. Linda was born on May 28th, 1947, and was 79 years of age at the time of passing.
Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center • 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031. Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.
Death Notice: Marilyn Christina Lemley, 78, Goldendale
Death Notice: Marilyn Christina Lemley, 78, Goldendale
Marilyn Christina Lemley of Goldendale, Washington, passed away on November 5th, 2026, in Hood River, Oregon. Marilyn was born on November 15th, 1947, and was 78 years of age at the time of passing. A memorial mass is planned for 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 14th, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church (240 NW Washington St., White Salmon, WA 98672).
Arrangements are under the direction of Gardner Funeral Home (156 NE Church Avenue, White Salmon, Washington 98672). Visit www.GardnerFH.com to share a story or leave a note for the family.
Death Notice: Vicky Lynn Gaige, 74, Mosier
Death Notice: Vicky Lynn Gaige, 74, Mosier
Vicky Lynn Gaige, age 74, a resident of Mosier, OR, passed away at home on November 4, 2026.
Spencer, Libby, and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.
Death Notice: Dean Harvey McAllister, 75, The Dalles
Death Notice: Dean Harvey McAllister, 75, The Dalles
Dean Harvey McAllister, age 75, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on November 4, 2026.
Spencer, Libby, and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.
Obituary: Joan C. Chapman, 92, Hood River
Obituary: Joan C. Chapman, 92, Hood River
Joan C. Chapman, a lifelong Hood River, Oregon, resident, passed away peacefully on October 30th, 2026, at age 92, lovingly surrounded by her family.
Joan Clyde Johnson entered the world on June 8th, 1934, in Hood River, Oregon, as the only child of William & Vera Johnson. She spent her childhood in the small town of Odell in Hood River County, graduating from Wy'East High School in 1952. Throughout her life, she spent some time in Aloha, Oregon, and Beaverton, Oregon.
While at a family picnic while Joan was still in high school, Joan’s Aunt Glendella introduced Joan to the love of her life, Clyde Chapman. He had graduated high school the year prior and had recently enlisted in the U.S. Navy. Clyde married Joan upon his return from boot camp on March 30th, 1952. During Clyde’s military service, the couple was stationed in both Bremerton, Washington, and San Diego, California. As military duty called, Clyde was deployed to Japan and Korea during the Korean War shortly after welcoming their first son, Steve, in 1953. The war ended, and Clyde honorably exited the military in 1955.
Joan & Clyde were blessed with another son, Kevin, in 1959. The young family settled permanently in the Hood River Valley. In addition to her roles as wife and mother, Joan worked full time for US. Bank and Hershner & Bell Insurance Agency, from which she eventually retired. During their retirement, Joan and Clyde traveled extensively in their various RVs; their favorite trip centered around the two seasons they spent as Yellowstone National Park employees.
Eventually longing for home and family, they returned to the Hood River Valley and downsized to a smaller home. They happily enjoyed their retired life together until Clyde’s unexpected passing in 2008 following 56 years of marriage. As a widow, Joan remained independently in her home for many years until 2025, when she agreed it was time to move in with her son Kevin and his family in Parkdale, Oregon. She spent her final days in Parkdale enjoying a peaceful life on the deck, soaking in beautiful views of the Upper Valley and Mt. Hood while in the constant presence of her loved ones.
As a child and a woman, Joan had always been headstrong and independent. In addition to her long working career, she enjoyed reading, crafting, gardening, baking, camping, and traveling. Joan LOVED driving her sleek, powerful cars and was often seen jetting around to various appointments, social engagements, and taking joy rides around the Valley. Her greatest passion, however, was spending time with her family and friends. As a big-hearted, conservative woman, she spent significant time and energy serving the Lord with her cherished group of church gals, who called themselves the “Happy Hands”. Together they crafted, quilted, baked, wrapped and delivered items to those in need. To know Joan was to know a truly beautiful woman inside and out, with a legendary smile that lit up every room she entered. She was also brutally honest, mischievously humorous, and epically stubborn! Her greatest pride was her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Joan led a long and fulfilling life and left us very blessed to have enjoyed her as long as we did. She was dearly loved and will be forever missed.
Joan is preceded in death by her parents William and Vera, her husband Clyde, her brother-in-law Don, her Aunt Glendella Jones, Aunt Goldie, and others of her generation.
Joan is survived by her sons Steve Chapman and wife Zoe of Vancouver, Washington; Kevin Chapman and wife Pamela of Parkdale, Oregon, former daughter-in-law Mary Chapman of Hillsboro, Oregon, 5 grandchildren; Shane, Melinda, Angie, Brittany and Joshua, 14 great-grandchildren; Garrett, Haley, Hannah, Madelyn, Brynn, Brooke, Samantha, Melyssa, James, Lacayla, Alyssa, Allysandra, Anthony and Johnathan, and her first great-great grandchild Arrabella (whom we were blessed for her to meet just before her passing), along with her many extended family members and her wide circle of friends.
A time to celebrate Joan’s life is planned for 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 14th, 2026, at Anderson's Tribute Center • 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031. Graveside Rites will follow at the Pine Grove Butte Cemetery of Hood River, Oregon.
Please visit our website to view and print Joan’s obituary and sign her guest book for family: www.andersonstributecenter.com
Death Notice: John A. Olson, Sr, 86, The Dalles
Death Notice: John A. Olson, Sr, 86, The Dalles
John A. Olson, Sr. passed away on November 1st, 2026, in The Dalles, Oregon. John was born on October 23rd, 1940, and was 86 years of age at the time of passing.
Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center • 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031. Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.
Death Notice: Edwin Ritchie, 85, The Dalles
Death Notice: Edwin Ritchie, 85, The Dalles
Edwin Ritchie, age 85, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on November 2, 2026.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Death Notice: David Bruce Henderson, 76, Tygh Valley
Death Notice: David Bruce Henderson, 76, Tygh Valley
David Bruce Henderson, age 76, a resident of Tygh Valley, OR, passed away at home on November 2, 2026.
Spencer, Libby, and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.
Obituary: Christopher Coppa Gardner, 75, Underwood
Obituary: Christopher Coppa Gardner, 75, Underwood
Retired Fire Captain Christopher Coppa Gardner passed away peacefully on October 28, 2026, at the age of 75, following a courageous battle with cancer.
Chris was born and raised in California, the son of a local physician and the middle of five boys. From an early age, he had a natural instinct to care for others and a deep love of adventure. Whether playing competitive soccer, diving for abalone in the ocean, or caring for his pet owl, Chris embraced life with energy, curiosity, and a spirit of exploration.
In 1976, his adventurous spirit led him and his wife, Gwynne (1974–1983), north to Seward, Alaska, where he spent the next two decades devoted to protecting and serving his community. A true first responder, Chris wore many hats throughout his career, serving as a Harbor Master Patrol Officer, rescue diver, EMT, certified fire instructor, and ultimately Captain of the Seward Fire Department. He ran toward emergencies when others ran away, bringing courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication to every call.
Alongside his demanding careers, Chris raised his four daughters, two biological daughters and two stepdaughters, with his second wife, Elizabeth (1988-2009), with the same strength and devotion he brought to his work. In his spare time, he could often be found tackling construction projects or riding horses through the Alaskan wilderness.
In 1996, Chris and his family moved to Parkdale, Oregon, and eventually settled in Underwood, Washington. His commitment to public service continued as he volunteered as a firefighter and fire instructor while building a business as a local contractor and handyman. One of his proudest accomplishments was helping construct the new Underwood Fire Station—a lasting testament to his dedication to the community he served.
In retirement, Chris traded flashing lights and sirens for quieter days overlooking the beautiful Columbia River Gorge. With his loyal Great Pyrenees, Icy, by his side, he enjoyed the simple pleasures of life and sharing laughs with close friends at his favorite dive bar—the Red Carpet in Hood River.
In September 2026, Chris was diagnosed with an aggressive small cell lung cancer that had spread to his brain and spine. Though his life was cut far too short, the impact of his courage, service, and generosity will live on in the many lives he touched.
Having joined his parents, Maria & Alfred Gardner, former spouses Gwynne & Liz Gardner and stepdaughters Melissa & Jessica Thorsen in Heaven, Christopher is survived by his brothers, Steve, Zach, Greg (Suzanne), and Jeff Gardner; his daughters, Alder McKenzie and Melisse Gardner (Jesse McAllister); his grandchildren, Addie McAllister (Jesus Castillo), Joshua McKenzie, Derrick Humble, Elexis McAllister, Mihaila McKenzie (Marco Vazquez), and Maria McKenzie; and his great-grandchild, Cleo Castillo.
In keeping with Chris’s final wishes, he will be cremated, with no formal funeral service. His ashes will be scattered at some of his favorite places. However, his family is planning a celebration of life gathering for late spring 2027.
Condolences may be sent to P.O. Box 33, Underwood, WA 98651.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Chris’s honor may be made to either of the fire departments he proudly served:
Seward Fire Department
P.O. Box 167
Seward, AK 99664
Underwood Fire Department
P.O. Box 156
Underwood, WA 98651
Chris leaves behind a legacy of service, adventure, and love—a life measured not only by the years he lived, but by the countless lives he touched.
Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center • 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031.
Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.
Death Notice: Bonnie M. Palmer, 69, The Dalles
Death Notice: Bonnie M. Palmer, 69, The Dalles
Bonnie M. Palmer, age 69, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Columbia Basin Care Facility on October 18, 2026.
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.
Death Notice: Deon Milban Deswert, 98, Dufur
Death Notice: Deon Milban Deswert, 98, Dufur
Deon Milban Deswert, age 98, a resident of Dufur, OR, passed away at Flagstone Retirement & Assisted Living on October 31, 2026.
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.
Death Notice: Joan Chapman, 92, Parkdale
Death Notice: Joan Chapman, 92, Parkdale
Joan Chapman passed away on October 30th, 2026, in Parkdale, Oregon. Joan was born on June 8th, 1934, and was 92 years of age at the time of passing. A time to celebrate Joan’s life is planned for 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 14th, 2026, at Anderson's Tribute Center
1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031. Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.
Obituary: Joyce Powell Morin, The Dalles
Through hard work, determination, and a genuine passion for caring for others, Joyce rose through the ranks, becoming the youngest director of nursing in history at Mid-Columbia Medical Center at just 28 years old. Her Catholic faith shaped her belief in service above self as she understood that healing involved more than medicine. She and her husband, Tony Morin, celebrated their 48th wedding anniversary on April 1, 2026. Together, they raised three children, Jacqueline "Jackie," Jaymie, and Joshua, and built a life filled with love and shared memories.
Joyce Powell Morin lived a life devoted to faith, family, community, and service to others. Whether she was comforting a patient, supporting a colleague, spending time with family, or embracing a friend, Joyce had a special way of making people feel loved and valued. Caring for others wasn't simply what she did. It was who she was.
Born on October 24, 1954, in The Dalles, Oregon, to Edward and Mildred (Zeller) Powell, Joyce grew up in the community she would call home for much of her life. She attended St. Mary's Academy and graduated from The Dalles High School in 1972. She continued her education at Marylhurst University before transferring to the University of Portland, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1976. She later earned her master's degree from Oregon Health & Science University and received a certificate in Clinical Pastoral Education from Tri-Cities Chaplaincy.
Joyce devoted more than 43 years to healthcare, a profession she truly loved. Her journey at Mid-Columbia Medical Center began as a nursing aide while she was still in college. Through hard work, determination, and a genuine passion for caring for others, she rose through the ranks, becoming the youngest director of nursing in the hospital's history at just 28 years old. She went on to serve in several leadership roles, including vice president of nursing, chief cultural officer, director of volunteer services, and chaplain. Throughout her career, Joyce helped shape not only how patients were cared for, but also the culture of compassion and service within the hospital. She was a respected leader, a mentor, and someone who never forgot that healthcare was, first and foremost, about people.
Her Catholic faith was an important part of her life and shaped her belief in service above self. Joyce understood that healing involved more than medicine. She believed in caring for the whole person, recognizing the importance of dignity, compassion, and spiritual well-being. Her passion for spiritual care and love of labyrinths led her to play an instrumental role in bringing a labyrinth to Mid-Columbia Medical Center, creating a peaceful place for reflection, prayer, and healing. It was one of the many ways she gave back to the community she loved.
While Joyce found great purpose in her work, her family was at the heart of her life. She and her husband, Tony Morin, celebrated their 48th wedding anniversary on April 1, 2026. Together, they raised three children, Jacqueline "Jackie," Jaymie, and Joshua, and built a life filled with love and shared memories. Joyce treasured her role as a wife and mother and later embraced the joy of being a grandmother to five grandchildren. Her family was a source of tremendous pride and happiness, and the time they shared meant the world to her.
Joyce had a special love for butterflies and sunsets, finding joy in the simple beauty of the world around her. Following her Alzheimer's diagnosis, she had butterflies tattooed on her arm as a reminder that even in life's darkest moments, there was still beauty to be found. It was a small but deeply personal expression of her spirit, her hope, and her determination to hold on to the things that brought her joy.
Joyce once said that she measured a day by the number of hugs she received. It was a simple sentiment that spoke volumes about the woman she was. She understood that life's greatest gifts weren't things, but people. A warm embrace, a kind word, a moment spent together. These were the things that mattered most to her.
Joyce is survived by her loving husband, Tony Morin; her children, Jackie Morin, Jaymie Flores and her husband, Jose, and Joshua Morin and his wife, Jacqueline; and her five beloved grandchildren, Hector, Sebastian, Lilly, Holly, and Andre. She is also survived by her six siblings, Judy, Janet, Jeri, Joe, Jean, and Jeff, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Mildred Powell, and her brothers, John "Jack" Powell and James "Jim" Powell.
Joyce leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and service reflected in the countless lives she touched. She will be remembered for the patients she comforted, the friendships she nurtured, the community she served, and the family she loved so dearly. Above all, she will be remembered for her warmth, her generous spirit, and the way she made people feel that they mattered.
Perhaps the best way to honor Joyce is to remember what mattered most to her: to love generously, embrace one another, and never underestimate the importance of a hug.
Funeral Services
A public viewing and visitation will be held at Spencer, Libby & Powell Funeral Home in The Dalles, Oregon, on Monday, November 9, 2026, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m., followed by the Rosary at 6:00 p.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Peter's Catholic Church in The Dalles on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow in the parish hall, providing an opportunity for family and friends to gather, share memories, and celebrate Joyce's life.
Obituary: Patricia Campbell, 78; Katie Kinder, 47; Evan Kinder, 15, all of Happy Valley
Their loss leaves behind deep sorrow for family, friends, and all those who knew and loved them. During this difficult time, we remember Patricia, Katie, and Evan with compassion and honor the memories they leave behind.
With profound sadness, we remember Patricia Campbell, Katie Kinder, and Evan Kinder, whose lives were tragically taken in a triple homicide in Happy Valley, Oregon, on October 20th, 2026.
Their loss leaves behind deep sorrow for family, friends, and all those who knew and loved them. During this difficult time, we remember Patricia, Katie, and Evan with compassion and honor the memories they leave behind.
Family, friends, and community are invited to gather in remembrance at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at Anderson's Tribute Center (1401 Belmont Ave., Hood River, Oregon) – graveside rites will follow at the Pine Grove Butte Cemetery (Hood River, Oregon).
As we come together to honor their lives, may their memories bring comfort to those who loved them, and may their families find strength and support in the days ahead.
Patricia Campbell, Katie Kinder, and Evan Kinder will be remembered with love, dignity, and compassion. May they rest in peace.
Out of respect for the family as they grieve and mourn this devastating loss, the media are respectfully asked not to attend or photograph the services. We ask that the family's privacy be honored during this deeply personal time.
Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.
Obituary: Shelly Denice Keele, 58, The Dalles
Life wasn’t always easy for Shelly, and she faced many struggles, but she was so much more than those struggles. She was a beautiful woman who kept trying, and she loved her family deeply.
In Loving Memory of Shelly Denice Keele
September 3, 1968 – October 24, 2026
Shelly Denice Keele was born on September 3, 1968, to Earl Easton and Sylvia Wynn. She was a mother to Amanda Middleton, Allyson Keele, and Alexandra Sandoval, and a grandmother to five beautiful granddaughters.
Life wasn’t always easy for Shelly, and she faced many struggles, but she was so much more than those struggles. She was a beautiful woman who kept trying, and she loved her family deeply.
Shelly was preceded in death by her daughter, Amanda Middleton; her mother, Sylvia Wynn; and her husband, Brad Keele.
She is survived by her father, Earl Easton, and his wife, Diana Easton; her brother, Tracey Easton, and his wife, Jennifer Easton; her daughters, Allyson Keele and Alexandra Sandoval; her son-in-law, Kyler Sandoval; and her five granddaughters, Ariya Edwards, Adalynn Edwards, Hendryx Sandoval, Lennon Sandoval, and Ozzy Sandoval.
She is also survived by her nieces and nephews and their families: Kayla and Jaymes, and their children, Andy and Halle; Cody and Natalie; Bradley and Kenna, and their son, Jaxon; and Ryder.
We find comfort in imagining Shelly reunited with Amanda, finally at peace. She will always be loved and never forgotten.
Obituary: Fa'atamali'i "Li'i / Lia" Heka Davis, 52
Fa'atamali'i "Li'i / Lia" Heka Davis, a graduate of The Dalles High School, will be remembered for her generous heart, devotion to family and boundless love for her children. Her generosity extended across generations and oceans, including having a home built for her parents in their Samoan homeland.
Fa'atamali'i "Li'i / Lia" Heka Davis
January 15, 1974 – October 15, 2026
Fa'atamali'i "Li'i / Lia" Heka Davis passed on to peaceful rest after a life defined by extraordinary devotion to her family, a deeply artistic soul, and a boundless generosity that touched everyone who knew her.
Born in American Samoa, Lia moved with her parents to the United States and was raised alongside five of her siblings. Her childhood was spent in San Francisco, California, before her family relocated to The Dalles, Oregon, during her later adolescent years. It was there that she graduated from The Dalles High School (TDHS) before going on to attend Walla Walla University.
Later, after returning home to The Dalles, Lia met the love of her life, Jeffrey Davis. Their journey together took them to Arizona, where Lia proudly embraced the role of bonus mother to Jeffrey's daughter, Paiton Tunstall (Davis). Lia poured many years of love and devotion into raising Paiton, caring for and loving her deeply as her own. In 1999, Lia and Jeff were married and soon welcomed their only son, Ryan. They later expanded their family circle as bonus parents to her niece and namesake, Malii Kaelah.
Lia absolutely adored being a mother. Blessed with a naturally nurturing spirit, she extended her maternal warmth to her many nieces and nephews over the years, constantly offering encouragement and love, even from a distance. While residing in Arizona, she dedicated many years to public service, working for the Arizona Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Following the heartbreaking passing of her beloved husband, Jeffrey, she chose to step down from her career and focused on her children and extended family at home.
An old soul with an extraordinarily generous heart, Lia strived to uplift everyone around her. Her deep devotion to her parents was beautifully expressed when she generously had a home built for them in their native homeland overseas. Lia took immense pride in her Samoan culture, its rich history, music, and exotic cuisine, and loved sharing her heritage with others at every opportunity.
Lia was a remarkably talented artist from a young age. As a young student, she won a drawing contest to design a new school mascot. Throughout her life, she channeled this passion into drawing, painting, and crafting—most notably through traditional lei making, which she lovingly created to bless family and friends during their graduation milestones.
An open and compassionate host, Lia welcomed loved ones and friends into her home during the holidays, sharing love, laughter, traditional meals, and homemade baked goods. When relaxing, she could often be found painting, crafting, immersed in a good book, enjoying a period-piece drama, listening and singing to her favorite music, studying her family's genealogy, or rooting on her favorite football team, the San Francisco 49ers.
At her core, Lia was a spiritual individual, drawing even nearer to her Heavenly Father before her final rest. She aimed to share her faith through loving others. She held a lifelong special affection for her childhood Samoan Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) church family.
As she rests in the arms of her Heavenly Father, her absence will eternally leave a void in our hearts. Our beloved Fa'atamali'i will be forever remembered for her creative soul, beautiful smile, quick-witted humor, and the boundless generosity she extended to all who were privileged to know her.
She is survived by her son, Jeffrey Ryan; her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Heka; her siblings, Miliama, Siniua, Sinae, and Sepela; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family whom she loved dearly.
Lia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jeffrey; her brother, Sam; her sister, Litia; and her grandmother, Valelia.
Service Information
Memorial Service: Monday, November 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM
Location: Spencer, Libby & Powell Funeral Home, 1100 Kelly Ave, The Dalles, Oregon
Death Notice: James Edward Heitkemper, 84, The Dalles,
Death Notice: James Edward Heitkemper, 84, The Dalles,
James Edward Heitkemper, age 84, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on October 24, 2026.
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.