Obituary: Julie Anne Moore Dillingham, 51, Hood River

Julie Anne Moore Dillingham

January 19, 1975– June 18, 2026

Julie, passed away on June 18, 2026, at the age of 51 after a brief battle with colon cancer and pneumonia, Julie was born to Pat Moore and Dianne (Troxel) Moore January 19, 1975.

Julie was a beloved daughter, devoted wife, outstanding mother, a cherished sister, a rockstar Mimi, and avid dog mom. She was born and raised in Hood River, with roots planted deep. She was known for her vibrant spirit, fierce yet loving personality, and a laugh that could light up any room. Julie was a true firecracker, a force to be reckoned with. Someone who brought energy, courage and strength to those around her.

She lived her life with passion and humility, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her love for her family was immeasurable and she treasured the time spent with those she held close. 

Proceeded in death by her “Pops” Larry Hayes, Bailey’s Dad and Julie’s dear friend Brian Hammel, Brother-In-Law Tom Sieverkropp, Godson Wyatt Smith, Grandparents Darrell and Lucille Troxel, June and Allen Moore, John and Helen Crowley, and Mary and Earl Moore. 

Julie is survived by; her husband, Joshua Dillingham; three daughters, Bailey Hammel (Phil), Gracee Dillingham (Casey) and Kloee Dillingham; mother, Dianne Hayes; father, Pat and second mom, Sue Moore; sisters, Reka Sieverkropp, Shanna Spring (James), and Tera Lindquist (Mike); brothers, Randy Hayes (Val) and Rob Hayes (Tonia); brother-in-laws, Daniel and Ryan Wollam; grandsons, Brian and Gene Gaines, Robert and Oliver Carr and Baby J due (9/26/26); aunts and uncles, Bruce Moore (Lynn), Beth Peters (Matt), Dwayne Troxel (Jeannie) and Lori Davies; nieces and nephews, Maddie Hayes, Hayden King, Weston, Austin, and Ryan Sieverkropp, Amber and Anthony Hayes, Samantha and Miya Lindquist, Michael Spring, and Natalie, Ivy, and Kyndra Wollam. Along with multiple cousins, and all of her special “peoples”, many friends and endless amounts of adopted children over the years in favor of her open-door policy.  A true testament to her love that she not only had for her biological children, but the love she had for the children of the community who always knew her door was open for the opportunity of a safe haven. As well as all the people whose lives she touched, her memory will live on through the love, stories, and moments shared by those who knew and loved her.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Services were held at 2:00 p.m., July 3, 2026 at Pine Grove Butte Cemetery with a reception that followed at the Hood River Valley Adult Center.

The family asks that any donations be made to Hood River Valley Adult Center for the Meals on Wheels Program in honor of Julie.

Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com.

Death Notice: Robert R. Yanez, 86, The Dalles

Robert R. Yanez, age 86, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge on July 6, 2026.

A Celebration of Life will be held July 25, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Moose Lodge in The Dalles, OR. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

Death Notice: Rick Joe Kapicka, 70, The Dalles

Rick Joe Kapicka, age 70, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on July 4, 2026.

Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Obituary: Chris Rachel Sumner, 75, Sandy

Chris Rachel Sumner

Chris Rachel Sumner, 75, a longtime resident of The Dalles, died Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at her apartment in Sandy.

She was born March 27, 1951, in Casa Grande, Arizona, to Amelia Melendez and Margarito Rodriguez. She grew up in Phoenix and graduated from high school in 1969.

After settling in The Dalles, Sumner built a 31-year career with the State of Oregon. She took great pride in her work with the Oregon Employment Department and the Department of Human Services, formerly known as Adult and Family Services.

She was active in the community and served on the boards of several organizations, including the Mid-Columbia Housing Authority and the Mid-Columbia Economic Development District. She also worked as a Spanish interpreter and recorded Spanish-language public service announcements for local radio stations.

She married the late Robert Victor Sumner in July 1978 at the MGM Grand Hotel in Reno, Nevada. During their 35-year marriage, they raised two children, made their home in The Dalles and enjoyed traveling together.

In 2003, three months before her planned retirement, Sumner suffered a severe brain aneurysm. She was flown by Life Flight to Portland, where doctors said she was not expected to survive beyond 24 hours. She recovered and returned home about 2½ months later. Despite the lasting effects of the aneurysm, she remained determined to participate in the activities she enjoyed for many years afterward.

Survivors include her daughter, Sandra Remsburg of The Dalles; her son, Robert Sumner of Arlington, Virginia; and three grandchildren, Sofia, Brandon and Rachel. She was preceded in death by her husband, her mother and her stepfather, Manuel Lyles.

At her request, no service will be held. Those wishing to honor her memory are encouraged to enjoy a nice meal and offer a toast in her remembrance. Memorial contributions may be made to a local animal rescue organization.

Obituary: Kenneth “Kenny” Catlin, 61, The Dalles

Kenneth “Kenny” Catlin was a huge man with an even bigger heart—a larger-than-life presence who spent his days ensuring no one around him ever went hungry, felt unloved, or stood without a friend. On June 13, 2026, at 4:51 p.m., Kenny was summoned home too soon after a fierce, courageous battle with ALS. As he took his last breath, a powerful gust of wind swept through the garden, carrying his legendary spirit home to the family awaiting him, leaving a world that will never quite be the same without his light.

A Journey of Passion, Hard Work, and Flavor

Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and 400 pounds, covered in tattoos, Kenny could easily command a room, but it was his profound kindness and booming laugh that truly captured it. In his younger years, Kenny worked the sawmills and braved the open ocean as a galley cook and fisherman on commercial fishing boats sailing to Alaska. It was during those rugged maritime days that he earned the affectionate moniker ‘Kenny Foo Yuk,” given to him by his brother Bobby, a testament to a lifelong passion for feeding people that started long before he ever owned a business.

In 2015, Kenny realized his ultimate dream and ambition by opening the Beachwood Eatery. The restaurant became his absolute pride and joy. Despite the endless trials of running a business, Kenny was always in his element there—happily greeting customers with a smile, sharing a story, and pouring his soul into his cooking. He used his kitchen not just to serve food, but to care for and uplift his entire community.

A Love Story and an Ever-Growing Family

The true anchor of Kenny’s life was his family. He met the absolute love of his life, Nancy, when she was just 13 years old. They shared a beautiful, rollercoaster romance filled with highs and navigating the lows together for many years, culminating in their marriage on June 25, 2006. Though they faced many seasons, Kenny’s heart always brought him right back to his beloved Nancy. His brother-in-law, Terry, beautifully noted the depth of this bond, sharing: “Let me tell you about a man. Not just any man…. The man with the largest heart I ever have met. Kenny would do anything for you if you were friends or family... today was his anniversary to my beautiful sister Nancy. He fought hard to make it, but in the end had to say goodbye early. He was giving to his last breath.”

To Kenny, family was never defined strictly by blood; it was defined by love. He proudly claimed three sons: Austin, Cody, and Billy. From day one to his very last breath, Kenny never saw Billy as anything less than his own son. As his boys grew, Kenny welcomed their significant others—Katelyn, Gabriella, and Jessi—with open arms and instant compassion. When Jessi joined the family and came to work alongside him at the Beachwood Eatery, they formed an unbreakable bond. He became a mentor, teaching her not only the art of cooking but the true meaning of community stewardship, leaving behind lessons that will be carried forward forever. Among the proudest moments of his life was the day he became a grandfather. Kenny was the very first person to ever hold his grandson, Johny—fondly known to him as “JJ”—and he cherished him with a fierce, protective love from that exact moment.

A Lasting Legacy

Kenny would do absolutely anything for anyone at any time. To list every life he touched, every mouth he fed, and every person who considered him an “adopted” father, brother, or friend would fill an entire book. He accepted people exactly as they were, and if his children loved someone, Kenny loved them instantly too. Kenny was preceded in death by his beloved mother, father, brothers, and sisters, who were called home before him. He leaves behind a massive, heartbroken, but deeply grateful village, including his loving wife, Nancy Catlin; his three sons, Austin Catlin(Gabriella), Cody Catlin (Katelyn), and Billy Byram(Jessi); his cherished grandson, JJ; his brother, Bobby(Diane);his brother Jeff (Connie) his sisters, Vickie and Nina; his mother-in-law Virgina Mckay; his father-in- law Frank Mckay; his brother-in-laws, Terry Mckay (Carey),Frankie Mckay and David Helms (Lana) and countless nieces, nephews, extended family, and community members.

Celebration of Life

In true keeping with Kenny’s explicit wishes, his family will not be dwelling only on the sorrow of his departure, but rather throwing a gathering worthy of his memory. A Celebration of Life will be held on July 18, 2026, where stories will be shared, his memory will be honored, and a life incredibly well-lived will be celebrated. In honor of Kenny’s giving spirit, his family asks that you take a moment today to hug your loved ones a little tighter, say a prayer for Nancy and the family during this transition, and live as Kenny did: with an open heart, a ready laugh, and a kindness.

Death Notice: Leslie Ann Durst, 72, Hood River

Leslie Ann Durst passed away on June 29th, 2026, at home in Hood River, Oregon.   Leslie was born on August 23rd, 1953, and was 72 at the time of passing.

Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson’s Tribute Center, 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com

Obituary: Richard Edward Trevis, 89, The Dalles

Richard Edward Trevis (1937–2026)
Richard passed peacefully on June 25, 2026, in The Dalles, Oregon, at the age of 89.

Born on January 27, 1937, in Hollister, California, Richard lived a full and meaningful life defined by service, craftsmanship, and deep devotion to his family and community.

Richard proudly served in the United States Navy, retiring as a Master Chief after a distinguished career in submarine service as a sonarman. His time in the Navy reflected his dedication, discipline, and commitment to something larger than himself—qualities that he carried through every part of his life.

In 1961, Richard married his beloved wife, Patsy, who preceded him in death in 2016. Their marriage was a lifelong partnership built on love, loyalty, and shared memories.

Richard was known for being outgoing and friendly, someone who genuinely enjoyed meeting new people and making conversation wherever he went. He took great pride in working around the house and could often be found in his workshop, building and woodworking—always happiest when creating something with his hands.

He enjoyed simple but meaningful pleasures in life—playing cribbage, attending church, and spending time with his grandchildren, who brought him great joy and pride. He would never turn down ice cream—whether a bowl or a milkshake.

He was proceeded in death by parents, Robert and Opal; wife, Patsy; brothers, Jim Trevis and Michael Johnson.  Survived by his children, Kathleen Schwarzer and her children Elisha and Oran, Debbie Trevis and her children Trevor and Tanner, Robert Trevis (Catherine) and his children Laureen and Kyle and his loyal dog Gidget along with numerous nieces and nephews, sisters, Marilyn and Barbara and five great grandchildren.

Richard will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the values he lived by, and the many lives he touched along the way.

In lieu of flowers or money please donate to Wounded Warriors Fund.  The family would like to Thank Dr Grissom, Providence Hospice and caregiver Donna Troxel, Pastor Aaron for your dedication and care.
Burial will be at Willamette National Cemetery on July 16, 2026 at 1:30 pm.

Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

The soul is now at peace, embraced by eternity.

Death Notice: Carol Suzanne Johnson, 69, The Dalles

Carol Suzanne Johnson, a lifelong resident of The Dalles, Oregon, passed away on June 7th, 2026, in The Dalles, Oregon.   Carol was born on July 18th, 1956, in The Dalles, Oregon, to Jerrold and Elnora (Mason) Runyon.  She graduated from The Dalles High School in 1974 and was 69 at the time of her passing. 

A Service of Remembrance is planned for 4:00 p.m., Thursday, July 30th, 2026, at Anderson's Tribute Center • Celilo Chapel, 204 E. 4th Street, The Dalles, Oregon 97058.  Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.

Death Notice: Howard “Howie” Odden, 78, The Dalles

Howard “Howie” Odden passed away on June 25th, 2026 at The Oregon Veterans’ Home in The Dalles, Oregon.   Howie was born on June 22nd, 1948 and was 78 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.

Obituary: Ross Edward Lambert, 63, Dallesport

Ross Edward Lambert, 63 of Dallesport, Washington passed away peacefully with his wife Sue and best friend Martin Mealue by his side on June 15th, 2026 in ICU at OHSU Hospital in Portland, Oregon.  

Ross was born August 20th, 1962 in Portland, Oregon to Victor and Iona (Daniels) Lambert joining his big brother Bruce Lambert at home.  

Ross enjoyed growing up in Portland with his many neighborhood friends, riding bikes all over town in the 60’s and 70’s when it was a safe time to do that, he had a lot of fond memories of time spent with his friends.  

Ross graduated from David Douglas High School in 1980.  He worked many jobs during Jr High and High School.  After graduation, he worked for Dennis’ 7 Dees for a few years.  

In  1988 Ross married Sue Merritt Ross at her home in White Salmon, WA.  Yes, that’s right Sue’s last name was Ross and that created a lot of confusion  throughout the years, Sue was widowed and had two son’s David Ross and Bobby Ross.  Ross loved and raised David and Bobby as if they were his  own.  Later raising two grandchildren, Makayla and Brandon Ross as if they were his own.  Ross was a man of his word, dependable, hard worker, level headed, voice of reason, frugal, and a man of many talents.  

Ross worked for Bryant Pipe and Supply, Luhr Jensen’s, SeaTrend Surf Boards, Chinook Plumbing, Terry Trantow Surveying and lastly The City of White Salmon-Public Works retiring after 30 years with the city October 1st, 2025.  Ross enjoyed his job with The City of White Salmon and enjoyed the people he worked with, you could even say his job was his hobby.  Ross was a man of many talents and he could Macgyver just about anything, he loved a good challenge to make things work!  

Ross was a member of The BPOE Elk’s Lodge 1868 in White Salmon for 38 years, for several years he was a member of the Christian Missionary Alliance Church in Hood River until him and Sue moved to Dallesport in 2016.  

Ross enjoyed spending time with friends and family, his friends were his family. Ross enjoyed camping, boating, water skiing, wakeboarding, riding his motorcycle (prior to marrying Sue), barbequeing , music 70’s and 80’s rock and roll, going to concerts, traveling, spending time with his Grandkids, working on his Grandkids cars, visiting his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Ray and Peggy Bray in Modesto, CA and friends, Greg and Patty Coleman in Queen Creek, AZ.  Sue’s uncle and aunt, John and Rita McGrath of Couer D’ Alene, ID and Penny Miner of Twin Falls, ID.  Ross especially loved being included in the Mealue Family functions and spending time with them.  Ross coached T-ball, Coach Pitch and Little League Baseball, when his Granddaughter Makayla and Grandson Brandon were young.  

Ross was a volunteer fireman for the White Salmon Fire Department for 30 years, he enjoyed driving the Firetruck in the parades with his Grandkids.  

Ross was preceded in death by his parents, Victor and Iona Lambert, Father-In-Law and Mother-In-Law Marvin and Shirley Merritt.  

Ross is survived by his wife of 37 years, Sue Lambert; son’s, David (Jennifer Warren) and Robert (Bobby) (Jen Drotar- Candice, Destiny and Elijah) Ross; grandchildren, Gabriel Ross, Makayla Ross, Brandon Ross, Aiden Ross, Ryleigh Ross and Reign Ross; brother, Bruce Lambert; niece, AJ Lambert; nephew, Aaron ( Heather and Huxley) Lambert; multiple cousins and on the Lambert side of the family he is the first cousin to pass; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Ray and Peggy Bray;  nieces, Brenda and Samantha; nephew, Steven; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Rick and Julie Blake; niece, Cristi (Chris); nephews, Matthew and Daniel; ex-sister-in-law, Suzie Dunfee and Pastor Scott Dunfee; and many dear friends, Martin and Tara Mealue, Courtney and German Poroj, Shawn and Sue Young, Rick and Amanda Mustion, George and Sandy Volker, Cheryl and Dave LeDoux, Greg and Patty Coleman, Penny Miner, Rob Clary, Ryan Adams, Andrew and Kelsey Dirks, Jeff and Becka Cooper, Rachel McIsaac and Mike, Megan and Alex Bubar, Terry and Ramona Register, Karen and Morris Schademan, Rick and Michelle Petersen, Paul and Sue Ronning, Ann Zuehlke, Dona Schock, the guys at the White Salmon City Shop his Boss Chris and all of the people he worked with at White Salmon City Hall over the 30 years he was there, including Mayors, Roger Holen, David Poucher and Marla Keethler.  

The family would like to thank all of the wonderful doctors and nurses that cared for Ross while at OHSU and the people that visited at the hospital supporting Sue and family; Martin Mealue, Michelle Petersen,  AJ Lambert, Bruce Lambert, Pastor Scott & Suzie Dunfee, David, Bobby, Makayla, Brandon and many friends that came to visit at the hospital as well as all of those who had called.  

Services are planned for 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 11th, 2026 at Grace Baptist Church (1280 W. Jewett Blvd., White Salmon, WA 98672).

Death Notice: Robert Gerald Miller, 74, The Dalles

Robert Gerald Miller, age 74, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at The Dalles Health and Rehabilitation Center on June 26, 2026.

Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Death Notice: June Marie Thompson, 73, The Dalles

June Marie Thompson, age 73, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge on June 23, 2026.

A Graveside Service will be held July 11, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Lone Pine Cemetery in Wamic, OR. Spencer, Libby, and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

Obituary: Phil Brady, 70, The Dalles

From Anderson's Tribute Center:

The Dalles, Ore., June 26, 2026 — Wasco County lost a beloved community leader, science teacher, friend, and family member with the death of Phil Brady. On May 19th, 2026, Phil took his bike out for a ride, as he did so many mornings of his life. He experienced symptoms, was taken to the local hospital, and died of aortic dissection. By the day’s end, he led his re-election bid for Wasco County Commissioner, a testament to the service he gave to a place he loved dearly. 

Philip Leonard Brady was born the day after Christmas in The Dalles, 1955. His parents, Eileen and Minor Brady, owned Brady’s Market on 3rd Street. He enjoyed his childhood in The Dalles skiing, fly fishing, and working in the orchards.

He attended Gonzaga University where he studied physics. After college, he joined the Jesuit Order. This time broadened his worldview -from studying philosophy to serving people experiencing homelessness, and even exploring astronomy at the Pope’s summer palace. 

He credited marrying Mary Jo Commerford as one of his wisest decisions, his dearest companion of over 40 years. His eldest Sarah shares his passion for politics, community organizing, and outdoor adventures such as circumnavigating Mt. Adams. Maza carries his interest in technology and science, building rocket launchers and raising goats together. He was beloved by his 4 grandkids, with his gift for entering their world through imaginative play.

From 1994 to 2003, Phil and family joined Maryknoll Lay Missioners in Venezuela. He was shaped deeply by the people he lived with who nicknamed him Indiana Jones for his signature hat. He helped form an ecology group that protected spring water and inspired people to nurture their connection with the desert landscape. He was beloved there, as he was here, for sharing his passion for the universe with his homemade telescope. One of his signature lessons is that we are made of stardust

Upon returning to the US, Phil spent 18 years teaching in the North Wasco School District. He spent the longest stretch as a teacher for incarcerated youth at NORCOR. His classes were full of fun explosions and hands-on learning that drew many into a shared love of science.

In 2022 he was elected to serve as Wasco County Commissioner. He was known for showing up, being kind, weighing tough decisions with curiosity, and having a big vision for the future.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Erin Conry. In addition to his wife, daughters and grandchildren, he is survived by his sister Coleen Connolly (Jim), brother Kevin Brady (Kerry Jo) and many nieces and nephews.

For his family, he will be missed as a loving constant, someone we all relied on to steady us through life. His belief in community was as expansive as the stars.

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Obituary: Katherine Ketchum, 85, Ajijic, Mexico

Katherine Ketchum

Nature lover, world traveler and fiercely competitive card player Katherine Ketchum passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 7, 2026, in Ajijic, Mexico. She was 85.

Katherine was raised on a ranch outside The Dalles, where her family lived without electricity or indoor plumbing until she was 7 years old. Her childhood was filled with caring for orphaned lambs, learning to sew, exploring fields of wildflowers and talking with her best friend, Nanette, on a nine-party telephone line.

She attended Oregon State University, earning a degree in home economics before moving to New York City to begin her career as a flight attendant. The job sparked a lifelong love of travel. In 1969, she married Paul Dauenhauer, and together they explored the world before and after welcoming their two children.

Katherine was known for her warm conversation, infectious laugh and love of a good card game. She found joy in nature through gardening and long walks, and she delighted in discovering hidden treasures at thrift stores and garage sales. Her passion for travel continued throughout her life.

In 2020, after developing dementia, Katherine moved to an assisted living community in Ajijic, Mexico. Even there, her laughter, kindness and joyful spirit continued to brighten the lives of those around her until her passing.

She is survived by her daughter, Christina Dauenhauer and partner Rayne Walker; her son, Jeffery Dauenhauer and partner Jenny Pavey; and her granddaughter, Tilly Dauenhauer.

A celebration of Katherine's life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026, at the Mosier Grange Hall.

Obituary: Marilyn Kay Deel, 70, Pendleton

Marilyn Kay Deel, 70, of Pendleton, Oregon, passed away on June 20, 2026, at St. Mary's Hospital in Walla Walla, Washington, surrounded by family. A  Celebration of Life will be held on  August 1, 2026~ 3 p.m. at the Community Center in Wamic, Oregon.

    Marilyn was born on February 23, 1956, in The Dalles, Oregon, to Elden Rufus Deel and Juanita Pearl Deel. She attended her early years of school in Wamic, Oregon, and graduated from Wasco County Union High School in Maupin, Oregon, in 1974. She later attended college in Prineville and Portland, Oregon.

    Throughout most of her adult life, Marilyn worked in several positions with the Oregon Department of Human Services, serving communities in The Dalles, Hood River, Pendleton, and Baker City. She loved helping people through difficult times, and her ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life made her career especially rewarding. The many friendships she developed over the years were deeply cherished.

     Marilyn often shared stories of her childhood on Smock Prairie, situated along the eastern slope of the Cascade Mountains in northern Wasco County, overlooking Mount Hood. She described a simple life filled with family, hard work, and lasting memories. Among her favorite stories were those of being tied to a saddle at just two years old while accompanying family members as they moved cattle, and later spending countless hours riding her beloved horse, Copper. These were some of the memories she treasured most.

     Her love of music and horses remained with her throughout her life. She enjoyed spending time with family, camping, visiting the Oregon Coast, taking long drives with picnic lunches, and attending family reunions. She delighted in sharing stories and memories of these experiences with those she loved.

    Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, stepfather and her siblings Jerold Deel, Howard Deel, Donna Tollefson, and Dwaine Moss.

    She is survived by her daughter, Jesica Obenshain and son-in-law Jesse of Pendleton, OR; grandchildren, Oakley Deel and partner Shelby Kobasa, and Ashly Deel and partner Kole Keller-Morris; great grandchildren, Amelia, Michelle, Octavia, Rhett, and Matthew; sister Saundra Bork of Baker City, OR; brother Michael "Mickey"  Deel and wife Sandra "Sandy" of Oregon City, OR.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Stirrup Hope Therapeutic Riding through Tami’s Pine Valley Funeral Home & Cremation Services, PO Box 543, Halfway, OR., 97834. Online condolences can be shared at www.tamispinevalleyfuneralhome.com

Death Notice: Phyllis M. Shinn, 85, Husum

Phyllis M. Shinn passed away on June 19, 2026, in Husum, Washington. She was born on August 2, 1940, and was 85 years old at the time of her passing.

Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson’s Tribute Center, 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com.

Obituary: Steven Joel “Steve” Zorza, 77, Hood River

Steven Joel “Steve” Zorza passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, November 21, 2025.

Steve was born on January 7, 1949, in Marquette, Michigan. He was the second of six children born to Ken and Angie Zorza. The family moved from Michigan to Hood River, Oregon when Steve was seven. He grew up among his siblings: older brother Ron and younger siblings Larry, Dubber, Pamela, and Scott.

Steve graduated from Hood River High School and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in March of 1968. He served in the Vietnam War and concluded his service at NSD Yokosuka, Japan, where he met Kazuko, whom he later married. After his honorable discharge in August of 1972, Steve and Kazuko returned to Hood River and made it their home. They raised two children, Jeff and Michelle.

Steve had a deep love for the outdoors and spent many days hunting and fishing with family and friends.

Steve is survived by his children, Jeff Zorza and Michelle (Joe) Cleary; his grandchildren, Owen Cleary, Jadyn Howard-Zorza, Wyatt Cleary, Finn Cleary, and Violet Cleary; and his brothers, Larry Zorza and Dubber Zorza. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ken and Angie Zorza, and his siblings Ron Zorza, Scott Zorza, and Pamela Zorza.

Military Honors for Steve are planned for 11:00 a.m., Friday, July 3rd, 2026 at Mt. View Memorial Cemetery (1235 Tucker Road, Hood River, Oregon 97031).

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: Nancy Ellen Brown, 89, Dufur

Nancy Ellen Brown, age 89, a resident of Dufur, OR, passed away at home on June 17, 2026. 

Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Obituary: Toni Kay Cooper, 63, The Dalles

Toni Kay Cooper, 63, of The Dalles, Oregon, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2026.

Born on March 24, 1963, Toni grew up in Stevenson, Washington, where she formed the strong roots and caring spirit that would guide her throughout her life. She later made her home in The Dalles, Oregon, where she became known for her warm heart, hard work, and devotion to family and friends.

Toni dedicated much of her career to cooking in local restaurants, sharing her talent and passion for food with her community. Of all the places she worked, she especially cherished her time at Johnny's Cafe, where she built lasting friendships and many fond memories.

Outside of work, Toni enjoyed cheering on her beloved Seattle Seahawks and could often be found watching WWE. Whether celebrating a Seahawks victory or enjoying an evening of wrestling entertainment, she embraced the things that brought her joy and never hesitated to share that enthusiasm with those around her.

Above all else, Toni loved her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend whose love and support touched countless lives. She is survived by her daughter, Nikki Culver and husband Kyle; her son, Boone Cooper; her cherished grandchildren, Camdon Amin, Callin Abel, and Caysan Averleigh; her mother, Kathleen Cooper; and her siblings, Gary Akerill, Cindy O'Neal, and Jamie Cooper. She also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will forever treasure her memory.

Toni was preceded in death by her beloved son, Travis Cooper; her father, James Cooper; and her grandparents, Ruth and Merle Akerill. Her family finds comfort in imagining her reunited with Travis and the loved ones who welcomed her home.

Those who knew Toni will remember her for her strength, her sense of humor and her will to live. She had a way of making people feel welcome and valued, and her presence brought comfort and laughter to those around her.

Though her passing leaves an immeasurable void, Toni's legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, family, and the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

A celebration of Toni's life will be announced by the family at a later date, where she will be toasted with Pepsi  

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever remembered.

Services are pending with arrangements under the direction of Anderson’s Tribute Center * Celilo Chapel, 204 E. 4th Street, The Dalles, Oregon 97058. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com

Obituary: MaryRuth Stranz, 73, The Dalles

MaryRuth Stranz 

MaryRuth Stranz, 73, of The Dalles, Oregon, passed away peacefully  at home on June 6, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. 

MaryRuth was born on February 8, 1953, in The Dalles, Oregon, to  Edward and Mary Nelson. Raised in Wasco County, she developed a  deep love for agriculture and community at an early age. As a youth,  she was actively involved in FFA, proudly raising and showing steers  at the Wasco County Fair for many years. 

After graduating from high school, MaryRuth attended Oregon College of Education (now Western Oregon University), where she  earned her degree in Education. During this time, she met the love of  her life, Jeff Stranz. They were married in June 1976 and shared  nearly fifty years of faithful partnership, friendship, and devotion. 

Education was not simply MaryRuth's profession—it was her calling.  While teaching and raising a family, she continued her own education and earned a Master of Science degree from Portland State  University in 2000. Her commitment to lifelong learning reflected the  example she set for her students, colleagues, and family. 

For decades, MaryRuth was a cornerstone of the North Wasco County  School District. Her service spanned classrooms at the former Joseph  G. Wilson School and many years at The Dalles Middle School, where  she taught, coached, mentored, substituted, and supported district  programs. Through her steady encouragement, high expectations, and genuine care, she impacted generations of students and  educators. Even after her retirement, her love for teaching and her  community brought her back to the classroom, where she served  several more years as a teacher and mentor at Colonel Wright  Elementary School.

MaryRuth’s dedication to education reflected her deep love for  children and her gift for nurturing growth in others. Whether in the  classroom or beyond it, she encouraged curiosity, celebrated  accomplishments, and inspired confidence in those around her. Above  all, she cherished her own family, finding her greatest joy in her children and grandchildren. She delighted in their accomplishments, encouraged their dreams, attended their activities, and treasured  every opportunity to be together. 

Faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of MaryRuth's life.  Throughout the years, she was an active member of Mosier  Community Church, The Dalles First Christian Church, and later  Calvary Baptist Church.

Her faith was not merely something she professed but something she lived. She served faithfully, encouraged  others generously, and demonstrated Christ's love through her kindness, humility, and care for those around her. Whether in her  church, her classroom, or her home, MaryRuth sought to point others  toward the hope and grace she had found in her Savior. 

MaryRuth is survived by her beloved husband, Jeff Stranz; her  children and grandchildren:  Cora and Jared Sawyer, and their children Colton, Ruthie, Ethan,  Olivia, and Solomon; Jennifer and Joel Vaught, and their children Lillen, Eliza, and Silas; Isaac and Tiffany Stranz, and their children Ezekiel and Shogren; Nathan and Emily Stranz, and their daughter Lucy. 

She is also survived by her brothers, Nick Nelson and Edward Nelson,  both of The Dalles.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Mary Nelson,  and by her sister, Kathleen Nelson. 

MaryRuth leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, service, and  dedication. Her influence lives on in the lives of her family, the  students she taught, the educators she mentored, and the community  she loved so well. Confident in the promises of Christ, her family rejoices that she is now in the presence of the Savior she faithfully  followed throughout her life. 

A celebration of MaryRuth's life will be held on Saturday, June 27,  2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the family home in Mosier, Oregon. Family and  friends are invited to gather as they remember and celebrate a life marked by love, service, faithfulness, and a lasting commitment to family, education, and community.