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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

Death Notice: Shelly Denice Easton, 58, The Dalles

Shelly Denice Easton, age 58, 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.

Death Notice: Mary Esther Korhonen, 78, Hood River

Mary Esther Korhonen passed away on October 25th, 2026, at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital. Mary was born on December 13th, 1947, and was 78 years of age at the time of her 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: Robin Lynne Wagenblast, 76, The Dalles

Robin Lynne Wagenblast was born in The Dalles, Oregon, on July 26th, 1950, to Robert “Bob” Harold Wagenblast and Shirley Louise Wagenblast (née Martin). Robin was the second of two children to the couple, as she had an older brother, Phillip. She had many fond memories of her childhood digging for clams on the Washington coast, traveling with her family while her father sold heating oil, and spending time at her grandmother’s home. Yet none were more precious to her than the summer of 1955 when her family visited Disneyland in its opening summer. Her love for Disneyland and Disney productions was later passed on to her three daughters, as they watched new releases in the cinema and had multiple birthday cakes based on Disney characters. Robin attended school in The Dalles, ultimately graduating from The Dalles High School. She was passionate about theatre and participated in multiple productions while attending high school.

After graduation, she attended the University of Oregon in Eugene. She majored in Education and minored in Theatre, pursuing her artistic passion but with a keen eye towards the future. At U of O, she met Joan Dube, who would become her lifelong friend. While attending university, she worked multiple jobs to pay for her education and was able to graduate early as a result of her fastidious dedication to her goals. After graduation, she completed her student teaching in Dufur, Oregon, accepting a position at the elementary school after completing her training. Robin was passionate about education, striving to find fun and creative ways to teach her students about multiple subjects. Robin cared deeply about her students and their families, a trait that permeated all aspects of her life. She also enjoyed traveling to expand her mind and worldview, and took a memorable trip to Europe, visiting several places including Hungary and Yugoslavia.

After teaching at Dufur for several years, Robin had the opportunity to move abroad, as Australia was seeking international teachers. She moved to South Australia, accepting a job in the suburb of Para Hills in Adelaide. While at this position, she chose to live on the coast, as she had always wanted to live at the beach. Robin enjoyed working with the families of her students and the added challenge of cultural and linguistic barriers that were sometimes present. Always seeking understanding, she took great care to learn about the families to help find the best approach to teaching individual students. While at this position, she became friends with a fellow teacher, Lee, who would eventually lead her to a man who would change the rest of her life.

While cooking an extensive meal for Lee & the dinner party guests one evening in 1980, Robin met Carl Edward Smith, a man who she later described as her soulmate. Though Carl lived in Smithton, Tasmania, he and Robin maintained a long-distance relationship until they could finally be wed on January 9, 1982. The couple wed at St. Bede’s Anglican Church in Semaphore, South Australia; they were married by Reverend Robert Niehus. Since the wedding was held at the height of the Australian summer, Robin’s bouquet was made of pink and apricot carnations to withstand the 40-degree Celsius heat. The flowers matched the ethereal dresses of the maid of honor, bridesmaids, and flower girls, and complemented Robin’s beautiful gown. The wedding was attended by several of Robin’s family members from the U.S., including her parents, brother Phil, and maternal grandmother Isabel. Much of Carl’s family was also in attendance, including his son Brett, mother Phoebe, and several siblings, nieces, and nephews. Carl & Robin honeymooned in Aotearoa/New Zealand, enjoying stunning locations such as Dunedin and Rotorua.

After the honeymoon, Robin & Carl settled down in Smithton, Tasmania. Soon after, Robin became pregnant with their first child, Christina Lynne, who was born on April 13th, 1983. About two years later, they had their second daughter, Melinda Susan, born on July 24th, 1985. Their third daughter, Tameka Ann, was born on March 8th, 1988. Their family was now complete, with four children: Brett, Christina, Melinda, and Tameka. The Smith family lived on Havelock Street in Smithton, in a quirky historical house that Robin adored. Robin made every holiday and event special, cooking feasts, decorating, and inviting loved ones into her home to celebrate together. While living here, Robin raised her children with lots of affection and a focus on their education. Her daughters were encouraged to read, create, and learn about their world through travel. Robin & Carl took the girls on many trips throughout their time in Australia, visiting big cities and small communities alike. The focus on combining joy and education as they traveled was persistent, as Robin was always an educator at heart. The girls participated in a variety of extracurriculars, including dance, theatre, and sports; no matter the activity, Robin was always there to support her children and encourage them to succeed. The girls grew up in the Havelock Street house until the family decided to relocate to The Dalles, Oregon to be closer to Robin’s parents.

In October of 2000, Robin and her family packed up their lives and made the long trip from rural Tasmania to the United States. In order to obtain her substitute teaching license, she started taking classes at Columbia Gorge Community College. She started art classes with local artist Jeff Stewart, and fell in love with oil painting (specifically landscapes). Robin had always been a skilled cook and baker, but her talent for oil painting was a surprise to her. Robin also attended St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in The Dalles, where she was a member of the choir and a steadfast attendee. Robin valued her church community and enjoyed her time with them immensely.

While living in The Dalles, Robin also learned the family business and eventually took over The Dalles Marble & Granite from her mother when Shirley retired. Robin was also the primary caregiver for Carl and both of her parents, demonstrating her love and dedication to her family under all circumstances. Robin lived in The Dalles the rest of her life, creating art, sharing her love of food, and showing kindness and compassion to her loved ones and strangers. Robin is preceded in death by her parents and her husband Carl. She is survived by her son Brett and his wife Merle in Casino, New South Wales; her daughter Christina and her husband Rick in Houston, Texas; her daughter Melinda in Bend, Oregon; and her daughter Tameka, her husband Morgan, and their son Luke in Portland, Oregon. She is also survived by her brother Phil and his wife Nancy in Lithia, Florida, in addition to many cousins, nieces, nephews, and other loved ones across the United States and Australia. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Rowena Wildlife (with a note “for the cats”), or contributing time, money, or food to your local food bank.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Robin Smith on Thursday, October 29, 2026.

Viewing

• 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

• Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home

• 1100 Kelly Avenue

• The Dalles, OR

Funeral Service

• 1:00 p.m.

• St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

• 1805 Minnesota Street

• The Dalles, OR

Graveside Service

• 3:30 p.m.

• IOOF Oddfellows Cemetery

• Cherry Heights Road

• The Dalles, OR

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

Family and friends are welcome to join in honoring Robin’s life and memory.

Obituary: David Princehouse, 82, Hood River

David Princehouse, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on November 22, 1943, in Hood River, Oregon, David spent most of his life in the beautiful community of Parkdale, a place he was proud to call home.

David was a wonderful father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. Along with his wife, Carolyn, he raised their three daughters, Kim, Kristi, and Kellie. His family was his greatest pride and joy, and he gave them a lifetime of love, laughter, guidance, and memories that will be cherished forever.

As a young man, David worked at Dee Mill before beginning a career in excavation. With his strong work ethic, determination, and independent spirit, he eventually started his own excavation business. He became known by many as “I Can Dig It Dave,” a nickname that perfectly captured both his work and his great sense of humor.

David loved the outdoors and the beauty of the Oregon he called home. He especially enjoyed hunting and fishing with his close buddies and family. He had a deep appreciation for nature and animals and found joy in the simple pleasures of being outside and spending time with the people he loved.

Those who knew David will remember his huge heart, quick wit, wonderful sense of humor, and generous spirit. He had a way of making people laugh and making those around him feel welcome. He was not only a beloved father and grandfather, but also a true friend to many.

David is survived by his ex-wife, Carolyn; his three daughters, Kim, and her husband Bernie, Kristi and her husband Randy, and Kellie; seven grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren, along with many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him deeply. He was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Alice Princehouse; his brother, Frank; and his sister, Mayme.

He may be gone from our sight, but he will forever be a part of the family, the stories, and the memories we carry with us.

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

Death Notice: Douglas Charles Hunter, 78, Maupin

Douglas Charles Hunter, age 78, a resident of Maupin, OR, passed away at home on October 23, 2026.

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

Obituary: Jean Marie Neuberger, 88, The Dalles

Jean Marie Neuberger, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on October 16, 2026, at Callaway Gardens in Kennewick, Washington. She was born on January 17, 1938, in Hazen, North Dakota, to David and Emma Pischel.

Jean graduated from Hazen High School in 1957, and that same year, on July 26, she married the love of her life, Allen Neuberger. Together, they shared 40 years of marriage, building a life filled with family, friendship, and many cherished memories. Their family grew with the arrival of their two sons, Carlyle in 1958 and Kevin in 1961. In 1960, the family moved from North Dakota to The Dalles, Oregon, where they made their home and built their life together.

Jean worked at J.C. Penney, Downey Furniture, and Temple Distributing throughout her career. She was also an active member of Faith Lutheran Church and Gateway Presbyterian Church, where she found community and fellowship.

Jean found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved playing pinochle, dancing to polka music, and traveling to new places. Above all, she treasured the time she spent with Allen. Whether enjoying a favorite pastime or simply being together, those moments were an important part of her life. Her love for her family and the memories they shared will continue to be treasured by those who knew and loved her.

Jean is survived by her son, Kevin, of Kennewick, Washington; her granddaughter, Carly (Travis), of Portland, Oregon; her grandson, Will (Megan), of Dufur, Oregon; and five great- grandchildren, who carry forward her family’s legacy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, David and Emma; her beloved husband, Allen; her sister, Ruth; and her son, Carlyle.

Jean’s life was one of family, lasting love, and the everyday joys that make a life meaningful. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A graveside service will be held on October 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Odd Fellow Cemetery on Three Mile Road in The Dalles, Oregon.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Spencer, Libby & Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

Obituary: Lorene Merz Murray, 92, Hood River

Lorene Merz Murray, born on December 18, 1933, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2026.  She was born in Woodland, WA to John A Merz and Luella Eaton Merz. She lived a life marked by dedication, quiet strength, and unwavering commitment to her family, her work, and her community.

She married the love of her life on September, 13, 1951 and they were married 60 years before his passing in 2011. To this marriage, 2 daughters were born. Evie in 1952 and Kathie in 1954.

Lorene was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, Albert William “Bill” Murray; her brother, John A. “Scooter” Merz; and her step‑siblings Joanne Godfrey Bader, Joe Godfrey, and Joyce Godfrey Cannon.

She is survived by her daughters Evie Hasty (Rod) and Kathie Alley (John) of Hood River, Oregon. Lorene leaves behind her grandchildren Rod Hasty of West Linn, Oregon; Mike Hasty (Rachelle) of Warrenton, Oregon; Matthew Alley (Heather) of Hood River, Oregon; and Katie Breshears (Bob) of Hood River, Oregon. She is also survived by her great‑grandchildren Taylor Plummer, Lilly Hasty, Tanis Hasty, Niko Alley and Mark Peleshok, each of whom brought her tremendous joy. She also leaves behind her sisters Melody Smith of Woodland, Wa and RosAnne Merz of Ecuador and her brothers Ron Merz of Hood River Or and Steve Merz of Lebanon, Or

Throughout her life, Lorene was dedicated to service, craftsmanship, and community. She worked at Kaiser Hospital in Vancouver, Washington, and Portland, Oregon, where her reliability and compassion were deeply valued. She later shared her extensive knowledge of plants at the Lake Grove Garden Center in Lake Grove, Oregon. Lorene also played an essential role as a partner with her husband, Bill, in operating Murray’s Bakery in West Linn, Oregon, helping build the bakery into a beloved local institution.

Lorene’s personal interests reflected her creativity, intelligence, and gentle spirit. She found great joy in floral and vegetable gardening, tending her plants with remarkable knowledge and care. A talented seamstress, she crafted clothing and household items with skill and precision. She cherished music, singing faithfully in the church choir and holding a lifelong appreciation for classical music. Lorene was also an exceptional cook, contributing her talents to the warm, welcoming atmosphere of Murray’s Bakery.

Lorene will be remembered for her kindness, her steady presence, and the deep love she carried for her family. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the traditions she nurtured, and the quiet strength she shared with all who knew her.

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