Obituary: Nathan "Nate" Ernest Arthur, 89, Hood River

Hood River, OR. September 19, 2023 - Nathan "Nate" Ernest Arthur passed away peacefully in his home with loving family by his side on September 14, 2023, at the age of 89.  He was born to Ernest "Erb" and Grace (Burnett) Arthur on April 8, 1934, in Brownsville, Texas. 

            Nate moved to Hood River in 1944 with his family which included his three brothers and one sister. He attended Odell Grade School and graduated from Wy'east High, where the friends he made there remained his close friends throughout his life. He loved sports and excelled in baseball and in later years was an avid handball player.  He enjoyed playing poker, watching sports, especially Nascar, watching old westerns and "The Three Stooges". He liked motorcycles, camping, and driving in the mountains with his family and friends, and was a long-time member of The Elk's and Eagle's Clubs.  

            Nate married Bernice Heaton in 1953 and together they raised five children.  He was a hardworking man, supporting his family as a service station owner and mechanic, chip truck driver, and heavy equipment operator in the construction of The Dalles and Bonneville Dams. 

            Nate was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, his beloved son Ronald, "Bud", and son-in-law, Randy Bell.  He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Bernice "Bitsy",  daughters; Peggy Arthur and partner Mike May;  Susie Bell;  Karen Timm (Dwight); Lori Fortune (Gene); five grandchildren, Becky, Michele, Megan, Andrew, and Kelli, nine great-grandchildren, and a multitude of nieces and nephews. 

            Nate was a generous man, humble and kind with a gentle soul.  He kept those he loved entertained with his humor and silly songs. He filled our hearts with love and gave us cherished memories that we will hold dear forever. 

            A "Celebration of Life" will be held for Nate on Saturday, September 30th at 11:00 at the Wy'east  Fairgrounds  Community Building.  

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.