Obituary: Larry V. Davidson

Larry V. Davidson

Larry V. Davidson passed away on Nov. 17, 2023.

He was born on September 4, 1963, in Portland, Oregon, to Don and Joan Davidson. He moved to The Dalles at 11 days old, where he loved to play baseball and basketball, fish, and hunt “varmints.”

Larry stayed in The Dalles until he left for his Mission in New Orleans. When he returned from his Mission, he married his first wife Maria Harrison, and together they moved to Rexburg, Idaho to attend Ricks College (BYU’s junior college). After receiving his Associate’s Degree, he and Maria moved to Portland where he attended Portland State University to major in Criminal Justice. That is also where he had his first child, Dylan Davidson.

A few years after graduating from college, he landed his dream job with the DEA (even as a little boy he always said he wanted to be a G-Man). As a DEA Agent, he traveled the world and held posts in Seattle; Jackson, MS; and Nicaragua to name a few.

After his career with the DEA was over, he became a Forensic Accountant, which took him all over the Country, investigating suspected money laundering schemes, and other potential bank crimes.

In 2002, while working for the DEA in Portland, he met and married his second wife Allison Drake, and she had his second child, Sofi Davidson. However, the life of a DEA Agent soon took its toll, and they amicably parted ways.

As they say, “third time’s a charm,” and it was his third and last marriage to Rebecca Seely that provided the glue that stuck. Together, they traveled, enjoyed family and friends, and activities centered around their church.

He is survived by his wife, Rebecca; his children, Dylan Davidson, Sofi Davidson, and Spencer Johnson; his sister Linda Davidson-Joy; his nephew Brian Joy; and good friend Melanie Alley. He was preceded in death by his brother Mark Davidson; his father Donald Davidson; and his mother Joan Davidson (Tunison).

Donations in his name may be made to the Last Chance Cat Ranch of Lethbridge, Canada at https://www.thelastchancecatranch.com/donate-1.

Death Notice: Timothy Shane O'Neill, 69, The Dalles

Timothy Shane O'Neill, age 69, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on November 17th, 2023.

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

Death Notice: Dorothy Ann Smothermon, 85, Maupin

Dorothy Ann Smothermon, age 85 a resident of Maupin, OR, passed away on November 16th, 2023.

A Funeral will be held at Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home, and Burial will follow at Kelly Cemetery in the near future.

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

Death Notice: Sharon Lee Harmon, 80, Wasco

Sharon Lee Harmon, age 80, a resident of Wasco, OR, passed away November 15th, 2023.

A Celebration of Life will be held by the family at a later date. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Death Notice: Betty Jean Morris, 89, The Dalles

 Betty Jean Morris, age 89, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on November 19th, 2023.

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

Service Announcement: Jeffrey (Jeff) Drennan, 60, Hood River

Jeffrey (Jeff) Drennan passed away on November 12, 2023, at his home in Hood River, Oregon. Jeffrey was born July 20, 1963 and was 60 years of age at the time of passing.

Services are planned for 2:00 p.m., Thursday, November 30th, 2023 at The Hood River Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (1825 May St, Hood River, OR 97031). Graveside Committal will follow at Idlewilde Cemetery of Hood River, Oregon.

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: Thomas (Tom) Leo Murphy, 77, Hood River

Thomas (Tom) Leo Murphy, 77 years of age, passed away peacefully on a quiet Thursday afternoon, November 16th, 2023, next to his devoted wife, Joyce Murphy at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital in Hood River, OR. A friend to many, a husband, a father, a son, a brother, a grandfather, an enemy to none, and an all-around charismatic man; Tom was someone who left his imprint on each person he encountered. He not only touched the souls of many but managed to make his burning passion of being an airplane mechanic and pilot his life’s work. Tom lived out his last days dedicated to his craft, loving those around him, and making others smile.  

Tom was born on September 4th,1946 in San Bernardino, California to his parents William A. Murphy Senior and Ruth C. Murphy. Tom also shared memories of his childhood with his two brothers, William A. Murphy Jr. and Robert M. Murphy who predeceased him in death. He’s survived by his wife, Joyce, his children, Kyle D. Murphy of WaiKoloa, Hawaii, Sheila C. Murphy of Meridian, Idaho, Darren N. Bates of Fairview, OR, and Kimberly J. Millhollin of Fairview OR. He’s also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Riley I. Murphy, Tyler J. Murphy, Mackenzie M. Bates, and Ayla R. Bates.  

Tom earned his wings as a pilot at the age of sixteen before he got his driver’s license. As a teenager, he would ride his bike miles to the airport to help restore antique airplanes. After graduating from Lodi Union High School in 1964, he attended one year at San Joaquin Delta Jr. College. Never steering from his dreams, Tom then transferred to Sacramento City College where he graduated with his A+P Certificate in 1967.  

In the late 70’s Tom went to work for Orchard Machinery Corporation whose owner eventually became the founder of the WAAAM Museum in Hood River, Oregon. There he maintained the corporate fleet and restored antique airplanes. He continued doing this when he moved to Hood River in 1981 working for Hood River Aircraft. In 1995 he moved to Troutdale, where he had his own shop in Estacada. Later on, he and his wife moved back to Hood River where Tom continued restoring aircraft, as the WAAAM Museum was being built. He was the Director of Restorations there for 10 years. At least 40 of these airplanes that Tom restored, including the Curtis Jenny, are in Hood River’s WAAAM Museum today.  

50 years of dedicated service in aviation safety led to him receiving the The Wright Brothers “Master Pilot Award”, as well as the Charles Taylor “Master Mechanic” Award from the Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration. One of his proudest accomplishments was in 1995 when he successfully flew a replica of a 1912 Curtis Pusher off of the top of the Multnomah Hotel building in downtown Portland to Pearson Airpark in Vancouver, WA. This was a famous reenactment of Silas Christofferson’s same flight in 1912.  

Tom left everyone’s lives he touched with a multitude of good memories. His impeccable attention to detail was his trademark. He was a humble man and an inspiration to many. His passions in life were his family and friends, flying, his work, animals, and his little dog Tucker. Always willing to lend a hand, he will be greatly missed. Tom once said… “Flying is the greatest freedom in the world”. May he fly high and rest in peace. 

A Graveside Committal Service is planned for 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 28th, 2023 at Idlewilde Cemetery (970 Tucker Road, Hood River, Oregon) - Memorial Services will be held at the convenience of the family at a later date in Hood River, Oregon. 

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: Richard Kent Slegers, 83, Hood River

Richard Kent Slegers passed away in Hood River, Oregon. Richard was born September 21, 1940, and was 83 years of age at the time of passing. The funeral service and reception for Richard will take place at 1:00 P.M. on Saturday, December 2, 2023, with a graveside to follow.

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: Bill Dale Cross, 92, Hood River

Bill Dale Cross

Bill Dale Cross of Hood River, Oregon passed away on November 12th, 2023, in The Dalles, Oregon. Bill was born on February 12th, 1931. He was 92 years of age at the time of passing.

Bill was born in Scottsbluff, Nebraska to Dale and Nellie Cross. He moved to Hood River with his parents in 1949 and only after one week he hitchhiked back to Nebraska when he was seventeen to be with his girlfriend, Betty Orde. He and Betty married in the Spring of 1949 and returned to Hood River, driving a 36 Ford Coupe.

Bill enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing billiards and Keno… he was affectionately known as “Keno Bill”. He was active in the Hood River Elks Lodge and was an Honorary Life Member and held the office of Treasurer.

The first job he had in Hood River was at the AGA (Apple Growers of America) Cannery. He worked two years on The Dalles Dam during its construction. He drove truck for seventeen years for Lester Auto Freight and eleven years for Silver Wheels Hauling Freight. He retired from East Fork Irrigation District in 1996.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife of 45 years Betty; son, David; daughter-in-law, GayLynn; longtime companion, Janet Peterson; and good friend, Nita Griffith. He is survived by his sister, Donna Dishman; two grandchildren; a great grandchild; nieces, nephews and many friends.

A time to gather and remember Bill is planned for 2:00 P.M., Thursday, November 30th at the Hood River Elks Lodge (304 Cascade Ave., Hood River, Oregon 97031).

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: Harry Stanley Kelsay, 80, Maupin

Harry Stanley Kelsay, age 80 a resident of Maupin, OR, passed away November 11, 2023. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

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

Death Notice: Jimmy(Jeff)Drennan Jr, 60, Hood River

Jimmy(Jeff)Drennan Jr passed away on November 12, 2023, at his home in Hood River, Oregon. Jeffrey was born July 20, 1963, and was 60  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: Phil Jensen, 87, Florence

Phil Jensen passed away on November 5, 2023, in Florence, Oregon.  

Phil was born in Hood River, Oregon on July 1, 1936 and was 87 at the time of his passing. Phil is the 3rd son of Luhr Jensen Sr. founder of the Luhr Jensen and Sons Company of Hood River, Oregon in 1932. 

A reception & celebration of Phil’s life is planned for 1:00 p.m., Saturday, December 9th, 2023 at Anderson’s Tribute Center • 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031.  

Phil’s life story will soon follow but you are encouraged to visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.

Death Notice: Margaret “Marge” Edens, 83, Hood River

Margaret “Marge” Edens passed away on November 11th, 2023, at home in Hood River, Oregon.

Marge was born on May 13th, 1940. She was 83 years of age at the time of passing.

A private committal will be held at Idlewilde Cemetery of Hood River, Oregon.

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: Elijah Perry Desimone, 27, The Dalles

Elijah Perry Desimone, age 27, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on November 7, 2023.

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

Death Notice: Roberta Evelyn Carson, 79, The Dalles

Roberta Evelyn Carson, age 79, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on November 8, 2023.

A Service will be held at a later date. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

Death Notice: Mary Joanne Cain, 62, Stevenson

Mary Joanne Cain passed away on October 29, 2023, at home in Stevenson, Washington. Mary was born on February 11, 1961, and was 62 years of age at the time of passing.

Arrangements are under the direction of Gardner Funeral Home • 156 NE Church Ave, White Salmon, Washington (509) 493-1323. Please visit www.GardnerFH.com to leave a note of condolence for the family. 

Death Notice: Ernie DeHart, 47, Hood River

Ernie DeHart has passed away at his home in Hood River, Oregon. Ernie was born September 2, 1976 and was 47 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. 

Obituary: Nancy Astelle Krieg, 76, Hood River

Nancy Astelle Krieg died on October 6, 2023, at Brookside Manor in Hood River, Oregon. Nancy passed quietly, as the sun set, surrounded by her family, being held by her life partner and best friend of 37 years, Fred Duckwall.  

Nancy was born Nancy Astelle Golden on August 28, 1942, in Lancaster Rural, California, an only child to Conrad Auburn and Jesse Jewel Golden. She lived her early years with her parents, in Glendora, California, attending elementary, high school, and junior college where she established many friendships that continued her entire life. 

In 1963, she met and was married to Richard James Leibelt. Shortly thereafter, she moved to Oregon with her husband. She spent many years in Redland, Oregon where she helped to raise her son, Richard Scott Leibelt, and daughter, Kristen Astelle Leibelt. During this time, she worked as a teacher’s aide in special education, collected antiques, raised her family, and built, remodeled, and redecorated three homes. After 17 years of marriage, Richard and Nancy divorced.  

Nancy relocated to Hood River and developed a deep affection for the town. Hood River became her forever home.  

During her years in Hood River, she worked as a teacher’s aide at Hood River Valley High School, in customer service for United Telephone, later Sprint, as a pianist at the Columbia Gorge Hotel, as an insurance agent for Herschner & Bell, Farrell Agency, as an account manager for Hood River Disposal and later in customer service for Carson Oil. She had a strong commitment to her work life and, like most things she did, put her all into it. 

Outside of work, her most valued time was spent with friends, family, and pets doing all the things Nancy loved. Topping the list was music, gardening, reading, knitting, and cooking, but music was her life, not football! She selflessly shared her hobbies with everyone. She found ways to gather those around her that enjoyed her passions. She had many passions and many friends. One of her greatest joys was her ability to make music. Nancy was able to put this talent to great use as the Organist for Hood River Valley Christian Church. For over 35 years, Nancy brought much love, joy, and laughter to many through her music. 

Several years after settling in Hood River, through her church family, Nancy met Fred Duckwall. Over time, Fred and her friendship grew with affection and caring that lasted the remainder of their lives. At almost any given time, they could be found together at one of their many favorite charity events, venues, or restaurants - laughing with colleagues, celebrating with family, and making merry with friends. Fred and Nancy’s time together was filled with many happy moments. Nancy did not know a stranger and befriended anyone that would let her.  

As the years progressed, Fred’s and Nancy’s families grew and slowly merged into one large family. Nancy often mentioned how happy she was for her children, grandchildren, and the many bonus children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren she had collected. As an only child, she had often hoped for a large family and ultimately achieved it.  

Throughout her life, she maintained an ever-present optimism and strength. She survived more life challenges than many - with grace and determination; her resilience was something to admire and respect. She is loved by many and will be greatly missed. 

Nancy is survived by Fred Duckwall and her two children and spouses: Richard Scott and Lisa Leibelt, Kristen Astelle Leibelt, and Peter Blyt. Through Fred, Nancy also gained four bonus children: Matt Duckwall, Jason and Mindi Duckwall, Nathan and Andrea Duckwall, and Sara Duckwall and Matt Hockett. Ultimately, it was Nancy’s grandchildren who brought unmatched joy. She loved them to the moon and back. She is survived by grandchildren Nikolai Mattias Blyt and Erik Kristoffer Blyt. As a bonus, Nancy got to be a grandmother to Jessamyn Duckwall, Hannah Duckwall, Cole Duckwall, Hunter Duckwall, Taylor Duckwall, Nora Snyder, Davin Snyder, and Hallie Hockett, and a great-grandmother to Malakai Brinsfield.  

Nancy was predeceased by parents Conrad and Jewel Golden, bonus great-grandchild Ezra Blue Duckwall, and her beloved pets: Max, Barney, and Sadie.  

A Celebration of Life presided over by Rev. Alicia Speidel and held in Nancy’s honor will take place on Friday, November 17, 2023, at 2 p.m. at Hood River Valley Christian Church, 975 Indian Creek Road, Hood River, OR 97031. Please join us in sharing moments and memories of Nancy’s long and beautiful life.  

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made out to Providence Hospice of the Gorge or Hood River Valley Christian Church (c/o Andersons Tribute Center 1401 Belmont Ave, Hood River, Oregon 97031).  

Nancy and her family would like to thank the staff at Brookside Manor, Providence Hospice of the Gorge, Hood River Valley Christian Church, and her many friends who were there throughout the years and especially those present in the last days for the love, care, joy, and support they brought daily to Nancy’s life.  

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: Richard Allen Crone, 80, Dufur

Richard Allen Crone, age 80, a resident of Dufur, OR, passed away on November 4, 2023. A Funeral and Burial will be held at a later date.

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

Death Notice: Dan Russell Sweetser, 35, The Dalles

Dan Russell Sweetser, age 35, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on November 5, 2023. A Family Celebration will be held at a later date.

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