Obituary: Michael Arthur Johnson, 77, The Dalles

Michael Arthur Johnson, 77, of The Dalles, Oregon, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service, friendship, and devotion to family and community.

Born on September 16, 1948, in Yakima, Washington, Michael was the son of Arthur and Opal Johnson. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, an experience that remained an important part of his life and identity.

For many years, The Dalles was the place Michael called home. A hardworking man who never shied away from a challenge, he worked throughout his life as a truck driver, limousine driver, landscaper, and at John Day Dam. No matter the job, Michael was known for his reliability, determination, and willingness to lend a helping hand.

Service to others was at the heart of who Michael was. He dedicated many years as a volunteer firefighter with The Dalles Fire Department, eventually earning the rank of Volunteer Captain. He took great pride in serving and protecting his community and formed lifelong friendships through his years of volunteer service.

Michael was also a passionate model train enthusiast. His love of trains inspired him to establish a train club at the Oregon Veterans Home in The Dalles, where he enjoyed sharing his hobby and bringing joy to fellow veterans and residents. Whether working on a model railroad display or discussing trains with friends, Michael’s enthusiasm was contagious.

When he wasn’t volunteering or working on trains, Michael enjoyed watching movies, especially classic westerns and films starring John Wayne. He appreciated the stories, characters, and values reflected in those timeless favorites.

Above all, Michael cherished his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Marion Johnson; his son, Brad Johnson; his daughter, Danette Johnson; his brother, Richard Trevis; his sisters, Marilyn Kafulides and Barbara Shannon; and his niece, Katrina Kafulides. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Opal Johnson.

Michael will be remembered for his generous spirit, strong sense of duty, and unwavering commitment to those he loved. His kindness, humor, and willingness to help others touched many lives and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at I.O.O.F. Three Mile Cemetery, 2565 Three Mile County Road, The Dalles, Oregon 97058.

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

Obituary: Barbara Frances Strickland Bailey, 84, The Dalles

Barbara Frances Strickland Bailey (84), of The Dalles, Oregon, died on Mother’s Day, May 10, 2026, at her home.

She was born in 1941, to Rex Strickland and Lorena Matthews Strickland in Seattle, Washington. Barbara grew up on Magnolia in Seattle before moving to Edmonds, Washington where she attended high school, trained her Appaloosa horse “Palouse”, and water skied on Puget Sound. Although she spent her freshman year of college at Washington State University, she graduated from University of Puget Sound where she was a member of the Alpha Phi Sorority.

She met her future husband on a blind date, and made him wait for her while her father made sure he was acceptable. She married Bob Bailey in 1963. She moved to her husband’s cherry farm in The Dalles, Oregon and had two children, Brenda Frances and Bridget Suzanne.

Barbara was married for 62 years, and lived a life centered around farming, traveling, and trying to make the world a better place. Her work was as varied as teaching 6th graders at Dry Hollow Elementary, and later, serving as President of her family real estate business. Barbara’s advocacy as a “Concerned Citizen” resulted in the relocation of a planned Zirconium plant away from the Columbia River Gorge. She also testified before Congress to create the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Later, Governor Roberts appointed Barbara to serve on the initial Columbia River Gorge Commission. She beautified her community as a Master Gardner, and by creating a public green space along Mill Creek, where the Fort Dalles US Army horses were tethered and cared for.

Barbara backpacked in the Wallowa Mountains and the Three Sisters Wilderness. She trekked the Himalayas with her brother Tom, guided by her friend Tenzing Norgay. She purchased a beach house on the Oregon coast and lovingly renovated it to share with friends and family. She studied dressage, Italian cooking, and gardening techniques in Britain and France. She loved all animals, and especially her corgis.

Barbara is survived by her husband Bob (The Dalles, Oregon), daughters Brenda (Thomas) and Bridget (Nisley Bailey), son-in laws Sterling Thomas (The Dalles Oregon), Eric Nisley (Madras, Oregon), grandson Augustus Thomas (Chicago, Illinois), grand-daughter Elizabeth Nisley Bailey (San Francisco, California), sister Nancy (Port Townsend, Washington) and brother Tom (Edmonds, Washington). She was preceded in death by her sister Lorena. Memorials or donations may be made to Friends of the Columbia Gorge or Columbia Gorge Humane Society.

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

Obituary: Mavis J. Ruddell, 98, The Dalles

Mavis J. Ruddell passed away peacefully on May 3, 2026, at the age of 98. She was born on July 14, 1927, in The Dalles, to Harry and Myrtle (Byers) Wickman.

Following World War II, Mavis graduated from the University of California, Berkeley in 1947. In 1949, she married her beloved husband, George I. Ruddell, an Air Force fighter pilot. Together, they embarked on a life filled with travel and adventure, living in numerous states and countries throughout George’s military career. Among their favorite assignments were their years in Japan, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

Mavis formed lifelong friendships with fellow Air Force pilots’ wives, offering steadfast support through the unique challenges of military life. A gracious host and exceptional cook, she frequently organized luncheons and gatherings that created a warm sense of community among the pilots’ families.

Raising her family as an Air Force wife became Mavis’s true calling. After 33 years of service, George retired from the Air Force, but his love of flying soon led them to a new chapter in the Virgin Islands, where he flew seaplanes for a commercial airline. They spent 18 wonderful years there before returning to The Dalles to enjoy retirement surrounded by family and friends. Mavis especially cherished family visits and reunions.

To know Mavis was to feel loved. A devoted family woman, she was nothing short of extraordinary. She had an innate ability to make everyone feel seen, cherished, and special—whether through a home-cooked meal, a warm embrace, or the thoughtful way she listened and cared for others. Her love was never passive; it was intentional and ever-present, woven into the everyday moments her family will carry with them always. Mavis was the kind of person whose presence made every room feel warmer and every gathering feel complete.

Mavis was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Myrtle Wickman; her husband, George; her son, Jeffrey; and her sisters, Shirley (Bud) and Evelyn (Ralph).

She is survived by her sons, Gregory (Cheryl) and Kenneth; her granddaughters, Tiffany (Tyler) and Caitlyn; her step-grandson, Cyrus (Miranda); her great-grandchildren, Mayson, Irelynn, and Daxton; and her step-great-grandchildren, Kassidy, Zachary, and Bryson.

Arrangements are in the care of Spencer, Libby & Powell Funeral Home.

Death Notice: Rebecca Ann Bailey “Becky”, 75, The Dalles

Rebecca Ann Bailey “Becky” passed away on May 12, 2026, at The Oregon Veterans Home in The Dalles, Oregon.   Becky was born on July 25th, 1950, and was 75 at the time of passing.  A Celebration of Life is planned on Becky’s 76th birthday (Saturday, July 25th, 2026, time yet to be determined) at Bargeway Restaurant, 1535 Bargeway Road, The Dalles, Oregon.

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: Janet Gail Malott, 76, The Dalles,

Janet Gail Malott, age 76, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge on May 5, 2026.

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

Death Notice: Lee Allan Thornton, 72, The Dalles

Lee Allan Thornton, age 72, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away April 24, 2026.

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

Death Notice: Stephen Wayne Wadsworth, 76, The Dalles

Stephen Wayne Wadsworth passed away on April 30, 2026, in The Dalles, Oregon. He was born on May 2, 1949, and was 76 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.

Death Notice: Linda Lee Bogart, 75, The Dalles

Linda Lee Bogart, age 75, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Columbia Basin Care Facility on May 5, 2026.

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

Death Notice: Charlotte Ann Velador, 64, The Dalles

Charlotte Ann Velador, age 64, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on May 5, 2026.

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

Death Notice: Mavis Jane Ruddell, 98, The Dalles

Mavis Jane Ruddell, age 98, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge on May 3, 2026.

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

Obituary: David Lawrence Lacock, 83, The Dalles

David Lawrence Lacock, 83, passed away on April 14, 2026, in The Dalles.

He was born on May 21, 1942, to Lawrence and Mary (Lamb) Lacock in Fall Creek, Oregon; the youngest of five children, he grew up in The Dalles and graduated from The Dalles High School in 1960. He played Football and Baseball for the Indians and lettered in both sports.

He joined the Oregon National Guard with his brother Ted in 1961, and he served until 1966.

He was an OSP Trooper from 1964 until 1970. He became a Wasco County Deputy Sheriff from 1970 to 1980. He retired from Wasco County in 1980, and worked numerous jobs throughout his later life; Martin Marietta, drove a long-haul truck with his son Darren, and most recently, a security guard at the Google site until his final retirement in 2023.

He married Marcia Lynne Palo on August 1, 1964, and they raised their sons, Jon and Darren, in The Dalles.

A beloved father and mentor, he thoroughly enjoyed fishing and camping. Some of his favorite activities were the annual father-son camping trip to Rock Creek Campgrounds in Wamic, space 27, and his trips up to Port Angeles. He was also what we joked about as a ‘tinkerer’ with his various projects and tools. He loved traveling to Pendleton to throw down on some poker. He had a great love for animals, and we know his dog Maggie misses him terribly.

David is survived by his wife, Marcia, at home; sons Jon Lacock and his wife Karrie of Port Angeles, Darren Lacock and his wife Joey of Dallesport, and Scott Lacock of The Dalles; eight grandchildren, Kanysah, Sierra, David, Dieryon, Marissah, Mathew, Tyler, and Andrew; six great-grandchildren, Kaiden, Xhaiden, Bennett, Blayke, Ceílí, Tate, and a great-grandson due in October of 2026; numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Mary, brothers Herb, Jim, Ted, and sister Doris.

At his request, no service will be planned.

He is very much loved and very missed.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.