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: 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: 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: 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.

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.

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.

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: 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: 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

Death Notice: Toni Cooper, 63, The Dalles

Toni Cooper passed away on June 18th, 2026, at Columbia Basin Care Facility in The Dalles, Oregon.   Toni was born on March 24, 1963, and was 63 at the time of passing.

Services are pending with arrangements under the direction of 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: 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.  Services are pending and will be announced soon. 

Arrangements are under the direction of 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: Reece Andrew Miller, 26, The Dalles

Reece Andrew Miller, age 26, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on June 13, 2026.

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

Obituary: Dorothy Hamako Sato, 103, The Dalles

Dorothy Hamako Sato, whose life embodied grace, resilience, and unwavering devotion to family, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2026, at the extraordinary age of 103.

Dorothy was born on May 24, 1923, in Carlisle, Washington, the third of five children of Matsu Noda and Nobujiro Suguro, who had immigrated from Heda, Japan, in 1919. Her mother named her Hamako – "by the seashore" – and raised all five children in Seattle's Nihonmachi (Japantown). Dorothy attended Bailey Gatzert Elementary, Japanese school, and Franklin High School, where she graduated in 1940. Her mother scraped together fifty cents a lesson for Dorothy to learn violin, instilling a love for classical music that lasted her lifetime.

She survived the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II, spending over a year in the Minidoka War Relocation Center. She endured the experience with what she would later describe simply as acceptance. Not quiet passivity, but a clear-eyed willingness to bear what could not be changed. "Shikata ga nai" - it cannot be helped - became the spirit of resolve that carried her forward, and was an attitude that stayed with her for the rest of her life. She eventually began sharing her story widely, believing that what happened to her and every other Japanese American should never be forgotten – that it was a lesson belonging to everyone.

After the war, Dorothy spent seven vibrant years in Chicago – going to the opera, working at an eye clinic, being “Auntie Do” to her nieces and nephews, and spending afternoons by Lake Michigan with her sisters. In the summer of 1949, her life took a romantic turn when she met Ray Sato, an orchardist from Parkdale, Oregon. They were married in 1950, and the city girl suddenly found herself living on a farm in the smallest of small towns. But Dorothy soon grew to love the land more than she ever imagined, and most of all, Mt. Hood – "her mountain." She and Ray built a thriving orchard growing apples, and later, pears, and she ran the books for the farm until she was 94, and together they traveled the world.

Dorothy was always the most stylish person in any room. Her colorful St. John’s suits, bright red nails, matching lipstick, and a perm circling her head like a storm cloud were her signatures. She completed the crossword puzzle every day without fail. She held her citizenship with the highest regard, reading the newspaper and following politics religiously, even in her final weeks. She had a green thumb and loved tending to her gardens, coaxing them to spill over with roses, impatiens, and tulips. She knew beauty could be found anywhere, and was always attuned to the small, exquisite details that give life its meaning.

Dorothy's love was expressed in the language of doing. She home-cooked every meal, hand-sewed her children's clothes, and made sure her three children – Gordy, Peggy, and Sally – had every experience she hadn't been afforded: music and sports lessons, travel, and eventually college. She became "Bobbe" to her grandchildren: Madeline, Julianne, and Zach, and she cherished them completely, constantly, and without condition. She was woven into the fabric of her family's lives: a grounding, steady source of care, friendship, and love – and was, until her very last moment, the matriarchal pillar her family leaned on.

Dorothy's life was magnificently full – of joy and hardship, of beauty and hard work, of loyalty and sacrifice, of family and love. She taught us what grace looks like, what resilience means, and what true presence feels like. The love she poured into her family will live on within them and in the generations to come – an enduring presence created by love alone.

And in the place Dorothy cherished the most – on a brick patio lined with windchimes, where the distant rumble of a tractor fades behind a swell of pear trees, where the air smells of cut grass and warm damp earth, where delicate pear blossoms drift as spring turns to summer – her mountain remains at the center of it all. Bright and steady and ever-present.
And we know that's where she'll be.

Dorothy is survived by her children Gordy and Sally (Joe), her grandchildren Madeline (Olivier), Julianne, and Zach, and her great-grandchildren Leo and Gia. She is preceded in death by her husband, Ray, her daughter Peggy, and her siblings, Claire, Kallio, Beth, and Jane.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the Gorge Room at the Hood River Inn (1108 E Marina Way, Hood River, OR 97031).

In place of flowers, please consider a donation to one of the organizations Dorothy valued and supported: Japanese American Museum of Oregon, the History Museum of Hood River, Densho, or Friends of Minidoka.
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: Eugene Henry Wright, 98, The Dalles

Eugene Henry Wright passed away on June 1, 2026, in The Dalles, Oregon. Eugene was born on April 19, 1928, and was 98 at the time of his passing. 

Arrangements are under the direction of 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: MaryRuth Stranz, 73, The Dalles

MaryRuth Stranz, age 73, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on June 6, 2026.

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