Death Notice: Joshua Alan Miller, 30, The Dalles

Joshua Alan Miller, age 30, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed on December 7, 2023. A Viewing will be held at Spencer, Libby, and Powell Funeral Home on December 11th, 2023 at 4:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will be held at Cousins in The Dalles, OR, on December 17th, 2023 at 4:00 pm.

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

Obituary: Carol Jean Howe, 95, Hood River

Hood River Or. December 11, 2023 - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Carol Jean Howe, a woman who lived a remarkable life filled with love, kindness, and countless cherished memories. She peacefully departed this world at home with family by her side on Thursday, November 16, 2023, at the age of 95, in her hometown Hood River, Oregon.

Carol was born on November 13, 1928, to Harry and Gertrude Caughey in Hood River, Oregon. She was raised on her parent’s dairy farm in Odell, Oregon. She lived during the great depression and that created many lifelong impressions and admirable character traits. These included the value of a dollar, hard work, and determination to push through difficult times.

She graduated in 1947 from Odell High School and was valedictorian of her senior class. During her school years, Carol was active in athletics, student government, and glee club and performed in several class plays. She attended Eastern Oregon College and earned a business degree.

On January 22, 1950, Carol married the love of her life, Charles ‘Tom’ Howe at St. Marks Church in Hood River. They were married for 53 years until his passing in February 2003. Carol was a devoted wife, daughter, sister, aunt, great-aunt, and great great aunt, her family was the center of her universe and her love for them knew no bounds. She leaves behind her legacy of love, unity, and strength.

In 1952, Carol began her working career at Hood River Hospital. She started as a switchboard operator, and over the years worked her way up to become the accounting and personnel manager. She also assisted and advised many of the Hospital administrators during her 33 years of service. She was admired by her co-workers for being a loyal, motivated, and hard-working manager, working above and beyond what was expected.

One of Carol and Tom’s ambitions was to travel after they retired. They were avid travelers, enjoying many years of RVing with Good Sams Travel Club. They traveled through the United States, including Alaska, to family reunions and enjoyed being snowbirds for many years in Mesa, Arizona.

Carol loved her hometown of Hood River, finding solace and joy in the beautiful surroundings, the picturesque landscapes, the flowing rivers, and the majestic mountains were not only her home but also a constant source of inspiration and tranquility. She was a true pillar of her community, known for her unwavering dedication to her family and friends and her commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those around her. Her warm and caring nature touched the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A true testament to her character, Carol dedicated her life to helping others. She was actively involved in St. Marks Church and other community organizations lending her time, and support and making anonymous donations to various causes. Her selflessness and compassionate nature touched the lives of many.

As we say goodbye to our beloved Carol, we take comfort in knowing that her spirit will forever live in our hearts. Her unwavering love, kindness, and generosity will continue to inspire us to be the best version of ourselves. She will be deeply missed by her loving family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known her.

May her soul find eternal peace, and may her beautiful legacy continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those she touched.

Rest in peace beloved Carol you will be forever loved and cherished.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents Harry and Gertrude Caughey, her sisters Mildred McAvoy and Lois Marks, her husband Charles ‘Tom’ Howe and her nephew Ernie Thesman. She is survived by niece Susan Lageman and her children, niece Mary Ellen Bennett and husband Keith, nephew Tom Bennett, great niece Debbie Shemorry and husband Gary, and their children, great nephew Michael Thesman and wife Kimberly, and their children.

Services will be held at St. Marks on Friday, December 15, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. Interment at Idlewild Cemetery will follow. A reception will be held at St. Marks after the service. In place of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Mark’s Episcopalian Church or an organization of your choice.

Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.

Death Notice: Larry Leo Mayfield, 80, The Dalles

Larry Leo Mayfield, age 80, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away December on 6, 2023.

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

Death Notice: David Thomas Cartwright, 73, La Grande

David Thomas Cartwright, age 73, a resident of La Grande, OR, passed away on October 9th, 2023.

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

Obituary: Frances Lillian McCall, "Fritz", 92, White Salmon

Frances Lillian McCall, "Fritz" of White Salmon WA. passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, November 19th, 2023 at the age of 92; exactly 20 years to the date that she lost her husband of 50 years.  

Fritz was born to Gertrude and George Moore on April 9th, 1931 in The Dalles OR, she was the youngest of ten children and graduated from St. Mary's Academy in 1949.  After high school, Fritz began her life as an avid member of the community where she welcomed all people with open arms, if anyone ever needed anything, she was there to lend a helping hand.  

In 1952, she first laid eyes on her husband, Virgil W. McCall, or "Tuffy" as most knew him while cruising the gut between second and third street in The Dalles. They briefly saw each other at that moment, but later fate brought them together again when they connected at a local ball game and the rest was history; they were married on October 10th, 1953.  From that time of commitment, they created a beautiful legacy that involved five children, fifteen grandchildren, and sixteen great-grandchildren in their 50 years of marriage.  

Fritz loved all people that she came across, no one was ever a stranger to her. Her garden was always the most beautiful and well-maintained, her grandchildren loved going to pick flowers with her and make beautiful bouquets. She loved to dance and sing to all varieties of music, but Christmas music was her favorite.  Fritz loved cooking and baking for everyone; no one ever left her house hungry or without a plate of food and/or treats. She was also involved in the St. Joseph Altar Society, the Pioneer Senior Center, and a long-standing member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. Alongside these caring attributes that Fritz brought to anyone she met, her smile was the best of it all; it could light up any room she was in.  She will be missed dearly, however, we are forever grateful to have been amongst a wonderful woman who created a long-standing legacy both in the community and amongst her family.  

Fritz is preceded in her death by her parents, Gertrude A. and George E. Moore, her beloved husband, Virgil W. McCall, "Tuffy", her granddaughter Becky McCall-Rees, and her nine brothers and sisters.  She is survived by her children, Stephen (Pam), Thomas (Kathy), Carol (Dennis), Mary (Alan), Jim (Tracy), her 14 grandchildren, her 16 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.  

A memorial mass will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church on Saturday, in White Salmon WA. on December 9th 2023 at 12:00 pm; a luncheon will follow the service. All are welcome to attend.  

Arrangements are under the direction of Gardner Funeral Home • 156 NE Church Ave, White Salmon, Washington (509) 493-1323. 

Death Notice: Richard Thomas Newsom, 69, Rufus

Richard Thomas Newsom, age 69, a resident of Rufus, OR, passed away on December 2, 2023.

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

Death Notice: Verla Dewie Wilson, 87, The Dalles

Verla Dewie Wilson, age 87, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on November 26, 2023. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

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

Death Notice: Steve Harold Wilkins, 70, The Dalles

Steve Harold Wilkins, age 70, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away December 5, 2023. A Memorial will be held at a later date.

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

Obituary: Trudy Anne Hull Ferguson, 69, Tygh Valley

Trudy Anne Hull Ferguson went home to Jesus on November 7th, 2023.

Trudy was born to Eunice and Irwin Hull on April 7th, 1954, and grew up in Tygh Valley. 

There she embraced the beautiful countryside where she shared fond memories of raising animals and fell in love with riding horses. 

After graduating high school, Trudy quickly started building a beautiful life and raising her family, eventually settling in The Dalles. She became a paraeducator at Dallesport Elementary where she met her soulmate, Dan. Together they began their adventurous life shared with family and friends.

Trudy and Dan spent many years traveling, attending concerts, going to Seahawks games, and so much more. They also spent many blissful days at “Fergie’s Bar and Grill” where many people have come together to share memories. 

Trudy joins her daughter Harmony, her parents, and her siblings Gerry, Margery, and Timothy in Heaven. 

She is survived by her husband Dan, her brother Gaile (Lois), her children Crystal, Miranda (Joe), and Jay; her stepsons Brandon and Cameron; her niece Michelle (Travis); her grandchildren Courtney, Erin, Michael, Kayle, and Blakely; her great-grandchildren Rafaella and Regina, as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Trudy will be missed greatly by her family and friends. A celebration of life will be held at Ramsey Grange Hall, 81184 Dufur Valley Road in Dufur, OR on Saturday, January 6th, 2024 at 1:00 p.m.

Exodus 23:20

“See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and bring you to the place I have prepared.”

Death Notice: Helen Marie Elton, 100, The Dalles

Helen Marie Elton, age 100, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away December 1, 2023. A Burial will be held at Odd Fellows Cemetery at a later date followed by a Celebration of life.

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

Death Notice: Shana Marie Henry, 44, The Dalles

Shana Marie Henry, age 44, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away November 25, 2023. A Celebration of Life will be held at St Vincent DePauls in The Dalles, OR, December 5, 2023 at 3:30 pm.

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

Death Notice: Sandra Kaye VanGilder, 73, Wasco

Sandra Kaye VanGilder, age 73, a resident of Wasco, OR, passed away on December 2, 2023, A Funeral Service will be held in the near future.

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

Death Notice: Jose Ochoa, 73, Hood River

Jose Ochoa passed away December 1, 2023 at the Hood River Care Center in Oregon. Jose was born September 30, 1950 and was 73 years of age at the time of passing.  

Memorial Services are planned for 2:00 p.m., Saturday, December 16th, 2023 at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses (1619 Tucker Rd, Hood River, OR 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: Delbert Long, 87, Hood River

Delbert Long, passed away on November 26,2023 at home in Hood River, Oregon. Delbert was born December 5, 1935 and was 87 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: Frances Cody, 94, Hood River

Frances Cody passed away on November 26, 2023, at Pacific Living Center in Hood River, Oregon. Frances was born July 26, 1929, and was 94 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: Nicholas Charles Laflin, 44, Tygh Valley

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Nicholas Charles Laflin, a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, who departed this world on July 31, 2023. He passed away in his sleep from a heart attack. Nick, as he was affectionately known to all who had the privilege of knowing him, left an indelible mark on the lives of those fortunate enough to share in his warmth, love, and zest for life.

Born on June 21, 1979, Nick’s journey through life was characterized by his deep love for family, particularly his adoration for his nieces, Ava and Laila. To say that Nick cherished his family would be an understatement. His eyes would light up whenever he spoke of his nieces, and he treasured every moment spent with them, creating memories that will forever remain in their hearts.

But Nick’s passion extended far beyond his immediate family. He was an avid adventurer and nature enthusiast, with an insatiable love for the great outdoors. The Deschutes River held a special place in his heart, and it was there that he forged countless bonds and created enduring friendships. Nick’s passion for rafting on the Deschutes River was legendary, and he approached each adventure with an infectious enthusiasm that drew people from all walks of life to join him.

Nick also had a deep love for ice fishing, hunting, and pursuits he enjoyed with his closest buddies during elk camp. These experiences allowed him to connect with nature on a profound level and share unforgettable moments with his friends. Whether it was sitting by an ice hole waiting for the flag to go up to get the perfect catch, or venturing into the wilderness on a hunting expedition, Nick’s dedication to these activities was a testament to his enduring love for the great outdoors. Through the years, Nick’s love for the outdoors and his magnetic personality brought together a diverse group of friends, who became a second family to him. He had an uncanny ability to unite people, fostering connections that transcended the riverbanks, the ice shanties, and the vast forests.

Nick is survived by his dad Mike Laflin, stepdad Tom Troutman and significant other Becky, his brother Nate Laflin and wife Kirsten Laflin, his nieces Ava and Laila Laflin, Uncle Dan (Boone) and family and his significant other Rose, Uncle Rod and Aunt Sandy and family, Aunt Kathy and family, Uncle Henry, Roy and their families, Aunt Bev, Carol, Tracey and their families, and many more important family members and friends, all of whom considered Nick not just a friend but a cherished companion on life’s journey.

He is predeceased by his beloved mother Donna Troutman, grandparents Richard and Polly Laflin from Maine and Hank and Cindy Wooderson and Aunt Woody from Oregon, and his Aunt Pam and Aunt Deb from Maine.

But perhaps one of Nick’s most enduring qualities was his unwavering desire to see others happy. He possessed an innate ability to lift the spirits of those around him, and he dedicated himself to making the world a brighter place. Nick would go to great lengths to ensure the happiness of his loved ones, whether it was through a kind word, a selfless gesture, or simply by sharing a moment of laughter and joy.

Nick’s passing leaves a void that can never be filled, but his memory lives on through the countless stories of laughter, camaraderie, and unforgettable adventures shared by those who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, adventure, and cherished moments that will continue to inspire and bring joy to all who were touched by his presence.

In this time of profound grief, we take solace in the knowledge that Nick's spirit remains forever intertwined with the wilderness he loved, the river he cherished, and the hearts of those who adored him. His memory will forever flow like the Deschutes River, winding its way through our lives, reminding us to live with the same boundless enthusiasm, love, and commitment to others that he brought to every moment.

Nicholas Charles Laflin, you will be dearly missed, but your spirit will forever reside in our hearts. May you find eternal peace on your greatest adventure yet.

We will be holding a celebration of Life in Maupin, Oregon at the South Wasco County High School Gymnasium on January 20, 2024, at 2 p.m. and a potluck dinner after. And, in Maine February 10, 2024, and the location is TBD. Please spread the word as Nick has touched a lot of people near and far and we would love to celebrate Nick with everyone that knew him.

Death Notice: Martin “Marty” Guy Johnson, 71, Hood River

Martin “Marty” Guy Johnson passed away on November 25, 2023, in Hood River, Oregon. He was born June 04, 1952, and was 71 years of age at the time of his 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 Notices: Carole Mae Rundell, 89, TD; Mark Scott Norcom Sr., 63, TD; Joseph John Wood, 62, Topeka

Carole Mae Rundell, age 89, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on November 21, 2023. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

Mark Scott Norcom Sr., age 63, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on November 14, 2023. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

Joseph John Wood, age 62, a resident of Topeka, KS, passed away on November 22, 2023. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

Celebration of Life: Jared Glenn David Cornell, 45

THE CORNELL FAMILY INVITES YOU TO CELEBRATE THE LIFE OF JARED GLENN DAVID CORNELL

JARED GLENN DAVID CORNELL

The Cornell family invites you to celebrate the life of Jared Glenn David Cornell. Jared passed away on November 16th, 2023, at the age of 45.

Jared is survived by his beautiful three daughters: Reghan, Teagen, Taryn, his devoted wife, Adria, best friends and brothers, Anthony and Bryant, and his loving parents, Nonie and Dave.

Jared was a loving family man who was invested in not only the community but also in helping others generously with his time and energy wherever he could.

Please consider joining friends and family at noon on December 16th at Reser Stadium, Club House, 660 SW 26th St., Corvallis, Ore. There will be plenty of parking.

The family encourages friends and colleagues to send pictures for slideshow consideration, and if you have a favorite Jared story,  anecdote, or thoughts you wish to share, please send them in writing to: JAREDCORNELLCELEBRATIONOFLIFE@GMAIL.COM

If you're so inclined to bless and support Adria and the girls during this challenging time, there will be the opportunity to drop cards or monetary gifts at the celebration of life.

Death Notice: Samarah Elena Luna-Betancort, 15, The Dalles

Samarah Elena Luna-Betancort, age 15, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away November 20th, 2023. A Memorial and Potluck will be held at Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home December 1st, 2023 at 11:00 am. Her Burial will be held at Odd Fellows Cemetery December 1st, 2023 at 2:00 pm.

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