Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home

Obituary: Alta Nodurft, 83, The Dalles

Obituary: Alta Nodurft, 83, The Dalles

Alta Nodurft of The Dalles, Oregon, passed away on April 13, 2026.

Alta was born in Lowden, Iowa, to John and Ethel Meyer on May 28, 1942. She graduated from Durant High School in 1960 and, on July 2 of that same year, married the love of her life, Lester Nodurft. Together, they began a life centered on family, commitment, and shared experiences.

In 1961, Alta and Lester moved to The Dalles, where they established their home and raised their family. Following Lester’s retirement, they spent several years in Yuma, Arizona, before returning to The Dalles in 2024.

Alta will be remembered for her devotion to her family and the life she built alongside her husband of 65 years. She is survived by her husband, Lester; daughters, Sally Branham (Ken) and Sharon Darnielle; son, Sid Nodurft (Jennifer); grandchildren, Cody and Shayn Darnielle, and Eugene and Leslie Branham and their spouses; and eight great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Ethel Meyer, and her brothers, Gale and Bill.

Alta’s legacy lives on in the generations of family she loved so deeply.

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

Read More
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home

Death Notice: Florence Mae Child, 83, The Dalles

Death Notice: Florence Mae Child, 83, The Dalles

Florence Mae Child, age 83, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Flagstone Retirement and Assisted Living on April 14, 2026.

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

Read More
Columbia Community Connection Columbia Community Connection

Death Notice: Jack Wallace Franklin, 100, The Dalles

Death Notice: Jack Wallace Franklin, 100, The Dalles

Jack Wallace Franklin, age 100, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at The Springs at Mill Creek on April 13, 2026.

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

Read More
Anderson's Tribute Center Anderson's Tribute Center

Death Notice: Christopher Charles Worton, 48, The Dalles

Death Notice: Christopher Charles Worton, 48, The Dalles

Christopher Charles Worton passed away on April 5, 2026, in The Dalles, Oregon. He was born on September 24, 1977, and was 48 years old at the time of his 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.

Read More
Anderson's Tribute Center Anderson's Tribute Center

Death Notice: Steven Bell, 68, The Dalles

Death Notice: Steven Bell, 68, The Dalles

Steven Bell passed away on April 6, 2026, in The Dalles, Oregon. He was born on October 16, 1957, and was 68 years old at the time of his 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.

Read More
Columbia Community Connection Columbia Community Connection

Obituary: Barbara Anne Bilyeu, 96, The Dalles

Obituary: Barbara Anne Bilyeu, 96, The Dalles

Barbara Anne Bilyeu was born on September 21, 1931, to her mother, Hazel Jean Martin, and her father, Leon Eugene Martin Sr. She had one brother, Leon Eugene Martin Jr. (Bud).

She graduated from The Dalles High School and Clackamas Community College.

Barbara is survived by her five children and their spouses, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.

Barbara had several different jobs in her life, but what she loved the most was being a mom and grandma, not just her own, but to any child that entered her home. She loved kids, and they loved her.

Barbara loved to garden; her yard and flowers were always beautiful and vibrant. It was a true passion of hers to grow things. She was known for her homemade jams. Her grandchildren loved to help her; it was a special thing for them all. Barbara was a woman of faith, and her favorite Bible story was David and Goliath.

Barbara lived in many places during her lifetime. The Dalles was always a place she loved; it was her hometown. She was born in The Dalles and chose to go back and spend her final time there.

Barbara’s service will be held at Spencer, Libby, and Powell Funeral Home on April 18, 2026, at 11 a.m.

Read More
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home

Obituary: Jacquellne "Jackie" Marie McKinstry (née Reld), 53, The Dalles

Obituary: Jacquellne "Jackie" Marie McKinstry (née Reld), 53, The Dalles

Jacquellne "Jackie" Marie McKinstry (née Reld), age 53, passed away on February 16, 2026, in The Dalles, Oregon. Born on October 10, 1972, in The Dalles, Jackie spent her life deeply rooted in the community she loved.

Jackie's faith was an integral part of her life. Her ministry studies with the Mustard Seed Ministry and Rivers of Grace Church were a source of Joy and Inspiration to her. She loved music and worship, often singing with a heart full of devotion. Her faith guided her as a faithful servant to God, a loving wife to Danlel McKinstry Jr., and a devoted mother to Andrew Beard.

Family was at the center of Jackie's world. She is survived by her husband, Daniel; her son, Andrew; her sisters, Anlta Penn-Porter and Tina Patton; her brother, Jim Reid; and her stepfather, Bob Haberman. Jackie also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, grandchildren, and friends who will forever cherish their memories with her. She was preceded in death by her mother, Dee Haberman, and father, Jack Reid.

Jackie had a passion for life that shone through in everything she did. She loved spending time with family and friends, cheering on the Seahawks, and sharing moments filled with laughter and love. Her warmth and loving spirit touched everyone she met, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know her.

May Jackie's memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her. A Memorial Service will be held on April 11, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Rivers of Grace Church, 1122 Oak Street. A dinner and fellowship time will follow the service. We gather not only to remember her life, but to rejoice in the hope we have in Christ. "Well done, good and faithful servant" - Mathew 25:23 "To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord" - 2 Corinthians 5:8

In lieu of flowers, contributions/donations can be sent to

Mustard Seed Ministry

PO Box 1952

The Dalles, OR 97058

https://mustardseed.breezechms.com/give/online

Read More
Columbia Community Connection Columbia Community Connection

Obituary: Adrian Alexander Chavez, 18, The Dalles

Obituary: Adrian Alexander Chavez, 18, The Dalles

Adrian Alexander Chavez, 18, of The Dalles, Oregon, passed away on March 10, 2026. Born on June 3, 2007, in Tucson, Arizona, Adrian later made his home in The Dalles, where he grew up surrounded by family, friends, and a community that he cared deeply about.

Adrian graduated from Dufur High School in 2025. Known for his strong work ethic and determination, he was already working toward his goal of building a future in the trades and the construction industry. He began working seasonal summers at Orchard View and later took a position at Papa Murphy’s during the school year. Adrian continued gaining experience through his work with Columbia River Affordable Portable, and most recently with Brewsters and Sons Landscaping in Dufur, Oregon. He took pride in working hard and learning skills that would help him build the future he envisioned.

Athletics were a natural part of Adrian’s life, and he was always willing to give his all. He participated in soccer, baseball, football, and track and field, but his greatest love was basketball. Whether on the court or supporting his teammates, Adrian brought energy, competitiveness, and heart to every game.

Outside of sports, Adrian enjoyed fishing, spending time with his friends, listening to music, and playing video games. He had a strong passion for cars, especially his Infiniti M35, which he loved and took great pride in.

Adrian will be remembered for his determination, his willingness to work hard, the joy he brought to those around him, the kindness, empathy, and deep respect for others. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Adrian is survived by his mother, Estela Flores; his father, David Ivan Chavez; his brother, Julian Ivan Chavez (Grace Ervin); and his beloved niece, Stella Grace. His grandparents Jaime and Cresenciana Flores; Aunt Maria Valdivia (Javier) and cousin Viviana; Uncle Cruz Torres and cousin Julian; Aunt Veronica Flores and cousin Tatiana; Aunt Leticia Garza (Chente) and cousins Dario, David, and Leah; Aunt Cecilia Florez (Alberto) and their fur-babies Milo and Addie; and Aunt Selena Flores (Isai Garcia) and cousins Sophia, Bryson, and Isel.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Calvary Baptist Church in The Dalles, Oregon. Burial will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, March 23, 2026, at St. Peter’s Cemetery in The Dalles, Oregon. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Adrian’s life.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you add your favorite pictures or share a personal story or message on the “Forever In My Heart” tribute page (see QR code below).

Adrian’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Read More
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home

Obituary: Jean Ellen Waterbury, 95, The Dalles

Obituary: Jean Ellen Waterbury, 95, The Dalles

Jean Ellen Waterbury was born on March 5, 1930, in Salem, Oregon, to Otto and Bertha Rogen. She passed away on February 2, 2026, at the age of 95.

Jean was raised in Salem, Portland, and Taft (Lincoln City), Oregon. She graduated from Taft High School in 1947 and later attended Linfield College in McMinnville, Oregon. While there, she met fellow student George Waterbury of Toledo, Oregon. The two were married in 1950.

Jean and George lived in Portland for three years before moving to Salem, where they purchased and operated a janitorial business. There, they raised their family of five sons and one daughter. In 1972, they moved to Seattle, Washington, where they lived until relocating to The Dalles, Oregon, in 1997.

In 2012, Jean moved to The Springs at Mill Creek, where she remained until her passing. The family extends their sincere gratitude to The Springs and its staff for the compassionate care they provided her.

She is survived by her children: Jay (Vicky) Waterbury of The Dalles, Oregon; Scott Waterbury of Snohomish, Washington; Mike Waterbury of Snohomish, Washington; Mark Waterbury of Glacier, Washington; Jim (Carla) Waterbury of Newberg, Oregon; and Jill Averett of Yuba City, California. She is also survived by nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Jean was preceded in death by her husband, George Waterbury; her sisters, Dorothy Bard and Olive King; and her brother, Orion Rogen.

A celebration of life may be held at a later date.

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

Read More
Columbia Community Connection Columbia Community Connection

Obituary: Shirley May (Cheadle) Mattson, 91, The Dalles

Obituary: Shirley May (Cheadle) Mattson, 91, The Dalles

Shirley May (Cheadle) Mattson, 91, a long-time resident of The Dalles, passed away at her home surrounded by her family on December 11th, 2025.

She was born on February 20th, 1934, in Mt. Clemens, Michigan, to Alphonso Cheadle and Ruby (Forgue)

Cheadle, the youngest of five children and the only girl.

She moved from Mt. Clemens, Michigan, to The Dalles, Oregon, with her family in the late 1940’s. She attended St. Mary’s Academy and The Dalles High School. After High School, her first job was as a telephone operator with Pacific Northwest Bell. She later worked at Woolworth’s Department Store, Westgate Market, and Newberry’s Department Store.

She married Duane Ivan Mattson on July 17th, 1960, in Goldendale, Washington.

Shirley dedicated her life to her family as a devoted daughter, wife, mother, and homemaker.

She was a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles, V.F.W. Auxiliary, and Wounded Warrior Project.

Her hobbies were gardening, knitting, bird watching, especially hummingbirds, making candy for the holidays, bingo, and playing slot machines. Her greatest pleasure was seeing her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren growing up. Her favorite travel memories were to Carmel, California, and multiple trips to Hawaii, Las Vegas, and Reno. She also loved trips to the Oregon Coast.

She is survived by her stepsons, Kimm (Lois) Scarberry, John Scarberry, and daughters Tina Moulden, Cindy Walker, and Alesia (Mike) O’Brien. Seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, her friend of 72 years, Ruth Radcliff, and “her” cat, Dutch.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 39 years, Duane, her brothers and their spouses, Tom (Helen), Richard (Wynne), David (Sharon), and Jerry (Arlene) Cheadle, and grandsons, Joseph and Kimm, Jr. Scarberry.

With so much gratitude, the family wishes to extend a very heartfelt thank you to the staff and caregivers at Providence Hospice of the Gorge.

Donations may be made to Providence Hospice of the Gorge by mail to 6410 NE Halsey Street, Suite 300, Portland, Oregon, 97213 or by phone, 541-732-6532.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Spooky’s on Saturday, March 28 th at 5:30 p.m.

Read More
Columbia Community Connection Columbia Community Connection

Obituary: Anthony John Pereira, 80, The Dalles

Obituary: Anthony John Pereira, 80, The Dalles

Anthony John Pereira, beloved husband, father, and pillar of The Dalles community, passed away on March 5, 2026, at the age of 80. He was born on February 8, 1946, in Yakima, Washington, and moved to The Dalles at age 3, where he would leave an indelible mark on the lives of all who knew him. He was a lifelong member of the Catholic Church and served in many positions whenever he was needed.

A man of immense dedication and service, John proudly served in the Army from 1964 to 1968 before pursuing higher education at Oregon State University. In 1972, he embarked on a career with New York Life and spent 54 years passionately providing invaluable services to his many clients. For excellence and top achievements, he received numerous top honors and awards. He had thousands of clients scattered across the country, and he loved and cherished them all.

John’s commitment to the community extended beyond his professional endeavors, as evidenced by his 70 years of dedicated service to the Boy Scouts of America. As the District Chairman and Troop Scoutmaster, he guided and inspired thousands of scouts to achieve their goals, leaving a lasting impact on generations of young individuals. Additionally, John was the original founder of St. Mary’s Foundation in The Dalles, where his tireless efforts helped the organization flourish and positively impact countless lives.

Known for his unwavering patriotism, John was always available to lend a helping hand to those in need. His love for his wife, Carol, and their children, Anthony and Katy Pereira, John and Luna Pereira, Cristina and Nick Kuehnl, James and Wendy Sanford, and Kelly Stark, was boundless, and he cherished his 18 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren dearly. John’s presence at home and in the community was irreplaceable, and his legacy of selflessness, dedication, and kindness will forever be remembered. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. In his passing, the world mourns the loss of a true embodiment of service and compassion.

Services and burial will be held on March 21, 2026, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 1222 W. 10 th, The Dalles, OR. 10:00 a.m. Rosary, 10:30 a.m., Funeral Mass, 12:00 p.m., Graveside, and luncheon to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Mary’s Foundation – 1112 Cherry Heights Rd, The Dalles, OR 97058 or The Boy Scouts Local Troop #398 - P.O. Box 1610, The Dalles, OR 97058.

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

Read More
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home

Death Notice: Mary Lou Richardson, 76, The Dalles

Death Notice: Mary Lou Richardson, 76, The Dalles

Mary Lou Richardson, age 76, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Columbia Basin Care Facility on March 7, 2026.

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

Read More
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home

Death Notice: Dennis Wayne Gray, 77, The Dalles

Death Notice: Dennis Wayne Gray, 77, The Dalles

Dennis Wayne Gray, age 77, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on March 8, 2026.

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

Read More
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home

Death Notice: Barbara Ann Jones, 81, The Dalles

Death Notice: Barbara Ann Jones, 81, The Dalles

Barbara Ann Jones, age 81, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on March 3, 2026.

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

Read More
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home

Death Notice: Dorothy Dean Gosson, 93, The Dalles

Death Notice: Dorothy Dean Gosson, 93, The Dalles

Dorothy Dean Gosson, age 93, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Flagstone Retirement and Assisted Living on February 14, 2026.

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

Read More
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home

Obituary: Kathleen Sawaka, 91, The Dalles

Obituary: Kathleen Sawaka, 91, The Dalles

Kathleen Sawaka, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Having fought the good fight to the very end, she now rests in the arms of her Heavenly Father.
Kathleen was born on January 31, 1935, in Seattle, Washington, to Francis Russell and Julianna Krull. She was the eldest of three siblings. She was preceded in death by her brother, Robert Krull, and is survived by her sister, Carol Steinman, along with three nieces and two nephews.

She graduated from Holy Mary’s Academy in Seattle and began her working life with “Ma Bell” in Seattle as a young woman. Throughout her life, Kathleen held many positions that reflected her determination and strong work ethic — waitress, bank teller, secretary for Wasco County in The Dalles, Oregon, and for various law offices and businesses. In the mid-1970s, she worked for Boeing Computer Services in Portland, Oregon. Later, after returning to The Dalles, she began working for the Union Pacific Railroad. Starting as a janitor, she worked her way up through dedication and perseverance to timekeeper, crew dispatcher, and ultimately management before retiring. Her journey was a testament to her resilience and strength.

Kathleen was the proud mother of four children. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Donald Good Jr., and her great-grandson. She is survived by her daughters: Elizabeth Hernandez, Christine Good, and Rosemarie Good. She leaves behind five grandchildren — Heather Webber, Amber Webber, Racheal Perry, Corie Coggins, and Jonathan Good — as well as fifteen great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren who carry forward her legacy of love.

Throughout her life, Kathleen traveled extensively. As the wife of a military serviceman, she journeyed across the country with her family. Later, through her connection with the Union Pacific Railroad, she continued to explore. In retirement, she delighted in visiting places she had not seen as a young woman. Her favorite destination was Ireland, which held a special place in her heart.

She devoted time to volunteering at Martha & Mary in Poulsbo, Washington, and served as an ombudsman, offering support and compassion to others. She loved her country deeply and cherished the values it stood for.

Kathleen adored her many pets over the years. Her final beloved companion, her cat Precious, was faithfully by her side, often resting on her lap.
She found joy in simple and meaningful pleasures. She loved playing cards — especially Nerts — which became a cherished way to spend one-on-one time with her children. In later years, Friday night card games with her daughters and friends were something she eagerly anticipated. She loved to dance and tried to teach her children to dance as well. She delighted in tongue twisters and had a playful spirit.
Kathleen was also an avid doll collector. She first collected Joseph Originals and later filled rooms with specialty baby dolls, surrounding herself with beauty and nostalgia.

Above all, Kathleen loved being surrounded by her family. Her greatest dream was to have her loved ones gathered close around her — and nothing brought her more joy than seeing generations together at her feet. She was a woman of strength, grace, deep faith, and unwavering love. She leaves behind a living legacy of beauty, resilience, and devotion to family.
She will be dearly missed by her daughters, grandchildren, and generations to come, but her light and love will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew her.

A grave site blessing will take place at St. Peter’s Cemetery next to the church on Friday, March 13th at 10:00 a.m. Following the grave site blessing, family and friends are welcome to come share their stories/memories at Mom’s house, 750 Division Street, #239, The Dalles, Oregon.

Read More
Anderson's Tribute Center Anderson's Tribute Center

Death Notice: Nancyann Renault, 87, Cascade Locks

Death Notice: Nancyann Renault, 87, Cascade Locks

Nancyann Renault passed away on February 27, 2026, at home in Cascade Locks, Oregon.   Nancyann was born on March 9, 1938, in Salem, Oregon, and was 87 at the time of passing.

Services are pending with arrangements 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

Read More
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home

Death Notice: Harry Douglas Nelson, 89, The Dalles

Death Notice: Harry Douglas Nelson, 89, The Dalles

Harry Douglas Nelson, age 89, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Flagstone Senior Living on March 3, 2026.

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

Read More
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home

Death Notice: Carole A Carlson, 91, The Dalles

Death Notice: Carole A Carlson, 91, The Dalles

Carole A Carlson, age 91, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at The Springs at Mill Creek on February 26, 2026.

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

Read More
Columbia Community Connection Columbia Community Connection

Obituary: Karl (Herman) Morse, age 55, Hood River

Obituary: Karl (Herman) Morse, age 55, Hood River

Karl (Herman) Morse, age 55, passed away on February 16, 2026. He was born on November 30, 1970, in Cortland, New York. He is survived by his brother, Ken Morse (Peggy), and his sister, Ellen Morse. He was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth J. Morse; his mother, Elizabeth (Turghetto) Morse; his brother, Eric Morse; his sister, Deborah Morse; and his brother, John Morse.

Karl was known for his adventurous spirit, his intelligence, and his dry sense of humor. A graduate at Cornell University, he worked in several fields throughout his life, including at the Hanford Nuclear Site. After caring for his mother in her final years, Karl traveled across the country— sometimes by hitchhiking—and spoke of the kindness he encountered along the way. He never considered himself “homeless,” but instead described himself as “on an adventure.”

He loved sports, especially baseball, enjoyed Taylor Swift songs, jigsaw puzzles, sushi, and decorating for Christmas. In his final months, Karl lived at Journey House in Hood River and was involved at Hood River Alliance Church through Man Coffee, Celebrate Recovery, and other ministries. He was loved by many and will be deeply missed.
A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, February 28, 11:00 a.m. at Hood River Alliance Church. 2650 Montello Ave. Hood River, Oregon

Read More