Obituary: Richard Lewis Biggerstaff, 86, Hood River

Richard Lewis Biggerstaff, born in Nebraska on January 13, 1940, peacefully left this world on August 1, 2026, at Providence Hospital in Hood River, Oregon, at age 86, following a series of strokes after several years of declining health. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Leitha Biggerstaff, and his siblings, Joanne Biggerstaff Keough and Rodney Biggerstaff.  

Richard, who was known for most of his life as Dick but more recently as Rich, moved with his parents and siblings at an early age to Richland, Washington. He attended Lewis and Clark Elementary, Carmichael Junior High, and graduated in 1958 from Richland’s Columbia High School. He attended CBC, then finished his degree in geology at the University of Washington. He pursued his master’s degree in geological engineering at the University of Idaho.

Rich married his neighborhood girlfriend, Sally Hatcher, June 13, 1964 at Richland Lutheran Church. They had three sons together, Thad in 1969, Chet in 1971, and Matt in 1972.  

His work took the family all over the country, including to Oregon, California, Delaware, Texas, Missouri, and Washington. In 1993, they returned to Richland, where Rich worked for several different contractors at Hanford. In 2003, he and Sally purchased 21 acres outside of Goldendale, Washington. They commuted from Richland on weekends to work on establishing a hobby farm and home in the country. A few years later, when Sally retired from teaching and Rich retired as a geological engineer, they relocated there permanently. Rich then obtained his real estate license, and for several years helped many other people find their homes away from city life. 

Rich was excellent at using his hands. He was a wonderful woodworker, producing everything from small carved items to coffee tables to hunting bows to kayaks. He also was a Mr. Fix It, who was disgruntled if he had to hire someone to do any job he could not do himself.

He is survived by Sally, his wife of 62 years, at their home in Goldendale; son Thad of Yakima; son Chet (and companion, Anne) of Goldendale; son Matt (who has been Rich and Sally‘s helper and caregiver since 2019) at their home in Goldendale. Other survivors include granddaughter Kylee Biggerstaff and a great-granddaughter Khalia Biggerstaff in Federal Way, sisters-in-law Darlene Hatcher Tverberg in Pennsylvania, and Lynn-Marie Hatcher Peashka in Richland, three nieces, five nephews, and 12 great-nieces and nephews. 

Rich loved nature and hiking. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to the Washington Trails Association, 705 2nd Ave., Suite 300, Seattle, WA 98104, or online at www.wta.org

Messages of condolence may be sent to 2257 Glenwood Hwy, Goldendale, WA 98620 or smbigger3@gmail.com .

Per his wishes, there will be no services.

Death Notice: Merl Eugene Sanders, 70, Goldendale

Merl Eugene Sanders, age 70, a resident of Goldendale, WA, passed away at Columbia Basin Care Facility on August 5, 2026.

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

Death Notice: Linda Rae Lorenzen, 82, The Dalles

Linda Rae Lorenzen, age 82, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on August 17, 2026. There will be a viewing on Thursday, August 20, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home.

A graveside service will take place at a later date. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home is in care of the arrangements.

Obituary: Robert McNary, 90, The Dalles

Robert McNary passed away on August 10, 2026, at Adventist Hospital in The Dalles, Oregon. Bob lived to see his 90th birthday, the first in his immediate family to do so.

Robert Jackson McNary was born May 29, 1936, near Brown City, Michigan. His parents were Howard and Clara Bina McNary. Raised on a farm, he milked cows twice a day and graduated from High School on his 17th birthday. Bob spent two years in the Army, stationed in Berlin, Germany. The country was still recovering from the ravages of World War Two, so Bob became a heavy equipment operator, learning the fine art of dirt moving and road building. After leaving the service, Bob came to Oregon looking for construction work. He found much to do. He worked for a time for the Corps of Engineers and learned dynamite skills while helping complete the Lyle tunnels on Highway 14. In the 1970’s Bob took a job in road construction with J.C. Compton Company from McMinnville, Oregon, and retired from traveling around the countryside in 2000.

Bob married Virginia Turner on July 29, 1963. She was a young widow with two small children to raise. Bob was up for the task. He was a volunteer Scoutmaster, served on various church committees, and served the city of The Dalles on the Landmark Commission. He was often seen volunteering in the booth for the Wasco County Democrats and in the High School looking to register young voters.

Bob loved working outside. He enjoyed his tulip garden that many people viewed while traveling up or down Brewery Grade. He was the master of the hillside.

Bob is survived by his wife of 63 years, Ginny; their children Dave Turner and wife Paula, Linda Kuciauskas and husband Matthew, Sally McNary Forster and husband Scott; his sister Joice Fredenburgh and her husband David; and his sister-in-law Sandra McNary. Grandson Max Turner, wife Payla, and granddaughter Autumn. He also leaves several nieces and nephews in Michigan and Montana. He was preceded in death by grandson Joseph Kuciauskas.

A Celebration of Bob’s life will be on Friday, August 21st at the First United Methodist Church, 305 East 11th St., The Dalles, Oregon, at 11 a.m. Viewing and visitation will take place at Spencer, Libby and Powell on Thursday, August 20th, from 2-6 p.m.

Memorial contributions can be made to Columbia Gorge Community College Foundation, 400 East Scenic Drive, The Dalles, OR 97058.

Obituary: Clarence Edward “Bud” Harris, Jr., 90, Hood River

Clarence Edward “Bud” Harris, Jr., age 90, passed away at his Hood River home in the company of his daughters on the evening of August 11, 2026.  Following his birth on August 25, 1935, in Columbus, Kansas, Bud would go on to enjoy many roles throughout his life, including loving husband, devoted father, brother, uncle, grandpa, and dear friend.

Bud’s childhood was one of humble beginnings, and the outdoors was his playground.  He loved to share fond memories of his parents (Clarence Edward Harris, Sr., and Ada Elizabeth Kapple) and his brother (Thomas) as they homesteaded from Kansas to California to Oregon.  His childhood was filled with many moves, but he always found ways to fish, hunt, and roughneck in the wilderness.  The family eventually landed in Grants Pass, Oregon, where they occupied an off-the-grid, one-room log cabin, complete with a “2-holer” out back!

During his junior year of high school, he fell in love with his lifelong partner, Mary Anne Miller, and despite his reputation for shooting squirrels, being a fishing addict, and having a propensity for stealing watermelons, she loved him back!  The two were (according to Bud) attached at the hip from then on.

Not long after graduating from Grants Pass High School, Clarence enlisted in the United States Marine Corps (USMC) in 1954, where he was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, and he was decorated as an expert marksman.  He was such an excellent shooter that he represented the USMC as a member of its military service marksmen team.  It was also during this enlistment that he earned the nickname “Bud,” which stayed with him for his entire life.

The USMC left a lasting impression on him, but Bud would tell you that the greatest event of his life also happened in 1954.  That was when he and Mary eloped to Las Vegas and began their lives as husband and wife.  After separating from active service in 1957, the couple made their way to Oakridge, Oregon, where Bud began work for a private company called Columbia Utilities.  His 47-year telecommunications career took him from self-proclaimed “line-crew grunt” all the way up to General Network Manager for Sprint NW Operations.

Bud’s adult life mirrored his childhood with a few moves and a few challenges, but he and Mary remained grounded by raising a family and constantly enjoying the outdoors together.  They welcomed their first daughter, Cheryl Lee, on March 9, 1954; next would come Laurie Renee on March 5, 1959; and finally, Linda Sue on September 16, 1963.  As a family, they found their greatest joys on quiet lakes, sitting around campfires, playing the fiddle, and pioneer-style cooking.  When he was at home, Bud loved spending time in his shop woodworking, hitting the golf course, shooting trap, and enjoying the good company of family and friends.

After retiring from the phone company in September 1994, Bud’s greatest challenge came when Mary suffered a debilitating stroke in April 1995.  Fiercely loyal to the wife he loved, Bud faithfully stayed by her side as her full-time caregiver until she passed in July 2012.  Despite his heartache, Bud still held tight to his deepest loves--God, family, and his little dog, “Maggie.”

It was during the last few years of Bud’s life that he committed himself deeply to his faith.  In his personal notes, he wrote about rededicating his life and soul to the Lord, and he proudly professed his faith by being baptized in the East Fork of the Hood River at the age of 85.  He remained a faithful member of Wy’East Community Church until his passing.

Bud was preceded in death by his spouse, Mary Harris; parents Clarence and Ada Harris; brother Thomas Harris; and his daughter, Cheryl Lee Paasch.  He is survived by daughters Laurie Crosswhite (Scott) and Linda Massingill (Doug); grandchildren Jenny Crosswhite (Daniel Sandoval), Brian Crosswhite (Melissa), Robert Paasch (Molly), Gary Paasch (Elle), Kyle Massingill, Justin Crosswhite; great-grandchildren Aubri Crosswhite; Austin Crosswhite; Scout Paasch; niece Janay Serlick; nephew Thomas Harris, Jr.; and niece Catherine Brown.

A celebration of Bud’s life will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, August 28, at Wy’East Community Church, Pine Grove, 2415 Eastside Rd., Hood River, Oregon.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bud’s memory to the “Hearts of Hospice Fund,” through Wy’East Community Church.  Checks and donations can be made out to “WCC” with “Hearts of Hospice” in the memo.

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

Death Notice: Roy Brandt, 72, Cook

Roy Brandt passed away on August 15th, 2026, at his home in Cook, Washington.   Roy was born on September 1st, 1953, and was 72 at the time of his passing.

The funeral service is planned for 1:00 p.m., Thursday, August 20th, 2026, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (1074 West Jewett Boulevard, White Salmon, WA).  Viewing will start at 12 noon, and a reception will follow Roy’s service, then burial at 4:00 p.m. at The White Salmon Cemetery.

 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: Rose Marie Schwinge, 86, Underwood

Rose Marie Schwinge of Underwood, WA. passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.

Rose was born May 11th, 1940, in Oyer, Missouri. She was born to Burrell (Red) Stockstill and Emma Lorriane (Smith) Goodwin. She lived in El Dorado Springs, Missouri, until the age of 15. She moved to White Salmon, WA, in 1955. Rose married James (Jim) Robert Schwinge on December 24, 1985.

Rose worked many jobs throughout her life. She worked at Columbia Materials Co., Town and Country Restaurant, and Heidi's. Rose also sold Avon for many years. She was a volunteer firefighter and also the secretary for the Skamania County Fire Department. Rose worked as a Postmaster Relief at the Underwood Post Office until her retirement.

Rose enjoyed sewing, cooking, trying new recipes, and collecting cookbooks. She also put together a cookbook for the Underwood Fire Department for a fundraiser.

Rose is survived by her husband, Jim Schwinge of Underwood, WA. Sisters: Nita Reeves of Goldendale, WA. Linda Dills of Marysville, WA. 

Children: Laura (Dan) Mack of Lyle, WA. Rosalie (Ken) Henderson of Underwood WA. Diana (Mike) Solomon of Murdock, WA. Debbie (Rios) of The Dalles. OR.

Stepchildren: Karen (Brian) Anderson of North Carolina. John (Lori) Schwinge of Hood River, OR.

Rose has numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Rose was preceded in death by her parents, Burrell (Red) Stockstill, Emma (Lorraine) Goodwin, and stepfather Buck Goodwin.

Son Merle (Dean) Vezina. Stepson Keith (Alyn) Schwinge. 1st husband Frenchie Vezina.

There will be a graveside service at the White Salmon Cemetery at a later date.

Arrangements are under the direction of Gardner Funeral Home (156 NE Church Ave., White Salmon, WA 98672). Visit www.GardnerFH.com to share a story or leave a note for the family. 

" Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure." 

Service Announcement: Frederick “Fred” Alden Mooney, 88, Hood River

Frederick “Fred” Alden Mooney passed away August 10, 2026, at home in Hood River, Oregon.   Frederick was born on July 5, 1938, and was 88 at the time of passing.

Memorial Services are planned for 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 29th, 2026 at Tucker Road Baptist Church (1455 Tucker Road, Hood River, Oregon).  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: Diane Delores Thomas, 90, Hood River

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and dear friend, Diane Delores Thomas, who passed away on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Parkhurst Place in Hood River, Oregon.

Diane was born December 15, 1935, in Bingen, Washington, to Alvin “Bud” Henry and Pauline Nystrom. She spent most of her life in the White Salmon area and made many lasting friendships along the way.

Diane married Lloyd “Buddy” Thomas on July 24, 1953. They shared a beautiful life together until Buddy’s passing in 1996.

Diane was a woman who loved the simple things in life—country music, reading, playing cards, telling jokes, and spending time with the people she loved. She especially enjoyed reminiscing about her childhood and telling stories from years gone by. If you knew Diane, you probably heard a few of those stories more than once—and that was part of what made them so special.

She leaves behind her son, Steven and Patty Thomas; grandchildren Andrea and Jeff Vincent and Jerome Kahler; and great-grandchildren Andrew, Emmit, Ana, Joseph, and Abby. She is also survived by her siblings Don “Ole” and Faye, Darlene and Gene, Linda, and Sandee, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and lifelong friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Buddy; brothers Dean and Jimmy; and her aunt Shirley.

Diane will be deeply missed, but we are grateful for the many years of memories, laughter, stories, and love she gave us. We will carry those memories with us always.

A graveside service celebrating Diane’s life will be held Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at White Salmon Cemetery. Don Morby will officiate.

Arrangements are under the direction of Gardner Funeral Home (156 NE Church Ave., White Salmon, WA 98672). Visit www.GardnerFH.com to share a story or leave a note for the family.      

Obituary: Michael Lloyd Coffey, 78, Carson

Michael Lloyd Coffey, of Carson, Washington, passed away July 21, 2026, at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital.  He was born September 26, 1947, and was 78 at the time of passing.  Michael was born in Portland, Oregon, to Ernest Lloyd Coffey and Mary Ellen (Skinner) Coffey and married to Joyce Ellen Coffey (Williams).

Mike and Joyce married October 29, 1979. He has two brothers and a sister; Alan, John & Charon; a son; three daughters; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; fifteen great-great-grandchildren.

Mike served in the US Navy for over 20 years, working on Naval Aircraft Carriers.  He loved his time at sea and on the ships, and while in the service, he traveled to many places including Italy, Hawaii, the Philippines, and Australia, just to name a few.

He was an avid reader and collector of books; he had a large library in the house with hundreds of books.

After his military career, he began a second career with Boeing, where he worked for 20 years.

Military Honors were performed by the United States Navy on August 11, 2026, at Anderson’s Tribute Center in Hood River, Oregon, and his cremated remains will be scattered at sea by the US NAVY.

Arrangements are under the direction of Gardner Funeral Home (156 NE Church Avenue, White Salmon, Washington). Visit www.GardnerFH.com to share a story or leave a note for the family.   

Death Notice: Rose Marie Schwinge, 86 Underwood

Rose Marie Schwinge passed away on August 5th, 2026, in Underwood, Washington. Rose was born on May 11th, 1940, and was 86 years of age at the time of passing.

Services are under the guidance of Gardner Funeral Home. Visit www.GardnerFH.com to share a story or leave a note for the family.      

Obituary: Sharon Lee Black, 77, The Dalles

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Sharon Lee Black, who passed away on July 27, 2026. To us, she was simply the best mom in the world.

Words will never fully express the depth of the loss we feel, but they also cannot capture how incredibly blessed we were to have her. Sharon gave her love freely and completely. Every lesson she taught, every laugh she shared, every hug she gave, and every sacrifice she made shaped the lives of those fortunate enough to know her. Her unwavering love remained constant until her very last day.

Sharon was born on February 25, 1949, and throughout her life became known for her incredible generosity, unwavering kindness, and selfless heart. She was the kind of person who never said no when someone needed help. Her home was always open, her table always had room for one more, and no one ever left empty-handed. Whether it was a warm meal, fresh baked treats, a cup of coffee, a thoughtful gift, or even a tube of lip gloss tucked into someone's hand, she found joy in making others feel loved. Giving wasn't something she did—it was simply who she was.

On April 18, 1975, Sharon married Lawrence Fred Black Jr. in Cannon Beach, Oregon. While life took them on different paths over the years, they remained connected by the family they created together and the love they shared for their children. Following Lawrence's passing, Sharon carried his memory with her, and their bond remained an important part of her story. Together, they were blessed with six children, who became the greatest joy and purpose of her life.

Sharon was a devoted mother to her six children: Charissa, Lawrence, Andrew, Davin, Sharyl, and Alvin, and lovingly welcomed daughter-in-law Tiffany and son-in-law Terry into her family. Nothing brought her greater pride than the family she loved so deeply. She adored her 13 grandchildren—Alexia, Ariana, Lilyana, Samantha, Alejandra, Briana, Alvin Jr., Sterling, Rylee, Taevin, Kobe, Serenity, and Casey—who were the light of her life. Each one held a special place in her heart, and she cherished every moment she spent with them. They will forever carry with them the unconditional love, encouragement, warmth, and kindness that only Grandma could give.

She is also lovingly remembered by her siblings: Melroy "Bud" Brace, Claire "Pet" Brace, Pearl "Sissie" Munsen, and Clarence "Sonny" Brace.

For nearly 30 years, Sharon dedicated her career to caring for children. She worked with students at the high school before finding her true calling at Great and Small Childcare, where she lovingly cared for infants through her patient hands and nurturing heart. To the families whose children were blessed to be in her care, she became much more than a childcare provider—she became another mom. Countless families remember Sharon's gentle spirit, comforting embrace, encouraging words, and the genuine love she poured into every child entrusted to her.

No matter where she went, it seemed someone would smile and call out, "Miss Sharon!" They remembered her from the childcare center and would excitedly tell her she had cared for them or their children years before. Those moments were a beautiful testament to the lasting impact she made. She helped raise generations of children, and many grew up remembering her as someone who made them feel safe, valued, and deeply loved. The love she gave so freely was returned many times over, and her legacy lives on in the hearts of the countless children and families she touched.

Sharon found happiness in life's simple pleasures. She loved tending to her garden, baking for family and friends, and creating a home where everyone felt welcome. She found joy in sharing what she had, whether it was a delicious dessert, flowers from her garden, or simply a place where people knew they belonged.

This past year brought an unexpected source of comfort and companionship when she welcomed her little dog, Elvis, into her heart after the loss of her beloved Lola. Elvis quickly became her constant companion and brought her endless smiles.

To know Sharon was to experience unconditional love. She had an extraordinary gift for making people feel seen, welcomed, and valued. Family gatherings were her favorite place to be, and she delighted in bringing everyone together to celebrate life's milestones, holidays, birthdays, and simple Sunday afternoons. Her home wasn't just a house—it was the heart of our family. It was where memories were made, traditions were born, laughter echoed through every room, and everyone knew they were welcome.

Her legacy is not measured by the things she owned, but by the countless lives she touched through her compassion, generosity, and endless love. Whether you knew her as Mom, Grandma, Sister, Aunt, friend, coworker, or as the woman who lovingly cared for your child, you knew someone whose greatest joy was making others feel loved.

Although our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing that her love lives on—in every family gathering, every act of kindness, every recipe passed down, every flower that blooms, every child who still remembers "Miss Sharon," and in each of us who were blessed enough to know her.

We will miss her more than words can ever say, but we are forever grateful for every moment we shared. We will honor her by striving to love others the way she loved us—with open hearts, open doors, and boundless generosity.

Until we meet again, Mom, thank you for every hug, every sacrifice, every lesson, every laugh, and every memory. Thank you for teaching us what unconditional love looks like and for showing us, every day, how to put others before ourselves. We were truly blessed to have you, and your love will remain with us forever.

You will always and forever be in our hearts. Forever our Mom. Forever our Grandma. Forever our Miss Sharon.

Service Information

Private Viewing for Close Friends & Family

Those who were close to Sharon and would like the opportunity to come and say goodbye are warmly welcome.

Friday, August 7, 2026

Drop in anytime during those hours at Spencer, Libby & Powell Funeral Home

1100 Kelly Ave. The Dalles, OR 97058

Celebration of Sharon's Life

Saturday, August 8, 2026

Brace Family Cabin

3820 Sandlin Rd.

The Dalles, OR 97058

Family and friends are invited to join us as we come together to remember Sharon, share memories, and celebrate a life filled with love, generosity, family, and kindness.

Obituary: Robert “Bobby” Dale Lincoln, 87, Hood River

Robert “Bobby” Dale Lincoln passed away on July 24, 2026, at home with his loving family in Hood River, Oregon.   Bobby was born on June 7, 1939, to Oscar and Agnes Lincoln and was the youngest of seven siblings.  Bobby was 87 at the time of passing.

He was one of the rare few born, raised, lived, retired, and passed right here in Hood River, Oregon. He lived a quiet, deeply happy life, finding contentment in the familiar routines of his hometown.

His life was built on a foundation of hard work and service, including his military service in Company B of the 41st Signal Brigade from 1962 to 1968. Bobby and Kay Jones married November 26, 1966, at the barber shop in Stevenson, WA.  From 1960 to 2000, he worked at the local telephone company, stubbornly outlasting five or six corporate name changes—from Oregon Washington Telco, United Telephone, all the way to Sprint—while staying a fixture of stability through the decades. Through the years, he also weathered whatever nature threw his way, including the historic storm of '69 and the '96 floods right here in the valley.

Away from work, his greatest joys were found outdoors. He was an avid gardener and a passionate fisherman. He also loved a grand adventure, whether that meant treks to Alaska, train rides across Canada, or a month-long retirement trip to Australia. More than anything, his heart belonged to his wife, Kay. Together, they built a remarkable life, missing their 60th wedding anniversary by just 4 months, a lifetime of partnership and quiet devotion.

He is survived by Kay, his sons Kert and Kevin, several nieces, nephews, extended family, and the steady line of loyal dogs who filled their home through the years.  Bobby and Kay enjoyed delivering Meals on Wheels for 10 years.  Please, in lieu of flowers, we encourage you to support them at hrvac.org. 

A celebration of life for Bob will be held at 12:00 p.m., Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Anderson’s Tribute Center.

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: Donzella Schlager, 99, The Dalles

Donzella Schlager passed away on July 27, 2026, at The Springs in The Dalles, Oregon. Donzella was born the oldest of three children to Thomas J Wilson and Viola E Granger on October 1, 1926, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska.

Donzella was raised in Lingle, Wyoming, on a sheep farm. She helped with farm chores, riding horses and herding sheep in the hills. During school, she was active with 4-H, sports, music, and led the marching band. Her band was selected to play at the 1943 Cheyenne Frontier Days. Donzella graduated from Lingle High School in 1944. She married Ruben Schlager on July 22, 1944, and started her family while helping with the sugar beet farm.

After selling the farm, Donzella and Ruben moved to Oregon. Donzella was adventurous and followed Ruben wherever he needed to go for work. They settled in The Dalles, Oregon, in 1963. Donzella was well known in the community and worked as a Census gatherer for Wasco County and as an administrative assistant for both the Red Cross and United Way. Her final job was clerk at JCPenney.

Donzella was a woman who loved God and was a devoted member of First Christian Church where she mentored young Christians, taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. She sang in many choirs and served in both visible ways and behind the scenes at church.

Donzella was a fine quilter and demonstrated techniques at the Discovery Center for years. She was an excellent seamstress and knitter. She belonged to the Democratic Women’s Organization and the Toastmistress Club. She was always proud that she and Ruben attended Jimmy Carter’s inauguration and ball in Washington, D.C. Donzella was a Girl Scout and Boy Scout leader. She loved to read and taught her children a love of reading. She enjoyed writing, especially genealogy and poetry. Donzella loved traveling and visiting her children.

Donzella loved to dance with her husband Ruben. They were members of the Eagles and danced there often. While visiting family in Idaho, she danced withLawrence Welk and said he was a “talented” dancer. In retirement, Donzella and Ruben built a home in a small orchard and sold cherries, apricots, and fresh produce.

Donzella is survived by her sister, Edith B Saunders; her six children: Gabriella Sue (Rick), Lee Ann, James, Beth (Greg), Russell (Angela), and David (Cindy). A special son, Dennis Morgan (Shannon), and Daughter-in- Law Connie. She has 11 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Ruben, her parents, brother Tom Wilson, and many brothers and sisters-in-law and nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held Monday, August 10, 2026, at 11:00 AM at First Christian Church in The Dalles. Memorial contributions may be sent to First Christian Church, 909 Court Street, The Dalles, OR 97058, or Bristol Hospice, 407 Portway Ave. Suite 201, Hood River, OR 97031.

Death Notice: Alan Blair, 80, Hood River

Alan Blair passed away on July 26, 2026, at Trustwell Living at Parkhurst in Hood River, Oregon.   Alan was born on February 12, 1946, and was 80 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. 

Death Notice: Della “Kathy” Hines, 91, Hood River

Della “Kathy” Hines passed away July 29, 2026, at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital in Hood River, Oregon.   Kathy was born on July 13, 1935, and was 91 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: Reece Andrew Miller, 26, Goldendale

Reece Andrew Miller passed away on June 10. 2026, in The Dalles, Oregon, at the age of 26. He was born on May 6, 2000, in Goldendale, Washington, to Beth Scherf and Brett Miller.

Reece was a beautiful young man who was full of life. He had a smile that could light up any room and a spirit that drew people to him. He was naturally happy, loyal, spontaneous, and an absolute joy to be around. Gifted with a quick wit, Reece could make anyone laugh. No matter the situation, he always had something funny to say, and his laughter was contagious.

Music was one of Reece’s greatest passions, and it was rare to find him without a favorite song playing. Whether he was discovering new artists or sharing his favorites with others, music was an important part of who he was. He also had an eye for fashion and loved looking “fresh” in his fits.

Above all, Reece deeply loved his family and friends. He would do anything he could to help those he cared about and treasured every moment spent with them. He often encouraged his family to be all they could be, the best versions of themselves!

He is survived by his father, Brett Miller; his mother, Beth Scherf; his siblings, Cierra (Kristian) Lucas, Ronnie Scherf, Alex Scherf, MoniQue (Austin) Didier; his grandma, Cecile Miller, along with his extended family including aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Our hearts are shattered by the unexpected loss of Reece. There are no words that can fully capture who he was to us or the depth of this pain. He was deeply loved by so many, and his absence leaves a space that can never be filled. Though his time was far too short, the love he gave, the time we shared, and the memories we made will forever and always be a part of us.

Forever loved, forever missed, forever our Reece.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

Death Notice: Patsy LaRayne Thompson, 86, The Dalles

Patsy LaRayne Thompson passed away on July 18, 2026, in The Dalles, Oregon. She was born on May 27, 1940, and was 86 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: Ron Reynolds, Husum Fire Department

Ron Reynolds 

With great sadness we report the sudden and unexpected passing of retired Riverside Unit Fire Captain and Husum Fire Department Volunteer Ron Reynolds, on Sunday, July 5th, 2026.  

Ron started in the fire service as a volunteer firefighter at Sunnymead Station 2 in Moreno Valley, California in the early 1970’s after his military service in the United States Air Force.

After gaining employment with the California Department of Forestry (CDF), he faithfully served the citizens of California for 26 years, starting in the Orange Ranger Unit in 1974, until his retirement on December 29, 2000.

In the late 80’s, Ron was selected to be one of the first fire captains assigned to the newly formed Riverside County Fire Department Hazardous Materials Response Team, known as “Haz-Mat Sixty-Five” (HM-65), based at Fire Station 65 in the City of Moreno Valley.  Ron remained a pioneer on the well-known team until retirement.  

Ron continued his dedication to public service after his move to White Salmon, WA volunteering tirelessly at Klickitat Fire District 3 for 16 years until the summer of 2025 when his body could no longer keep up with his desire to serve. His professional dedication, great sense of humor, and his unique ability to bring calm to chaos shall be remembered by many.  

Ron is survived by his daughter, Amanda Perkins, and his grandchildren Shay, Jase, and Reese. 

A memorial service is planned at the Riverside National Cemetery in California on July 30th, 2026, at 10:45am.  

Death Notice: Kenna Kay Pritchett, 71, The Dalles

Kenna Kay Pritchett, age 71, a resident of The Dalles, OR passed away at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge on July 13, 2026. Services were held Monday, July 20, 2026.

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