Obituary: Norman Andrew "Doggie" Nelson, 39, Mooresville, NC

Norman Andrew Nelson, known as “Andy” or “Doggie”, 39, passed away peacefully at his home in Mooresville, NC on October 13th, 2024.

Andy was born to Norman and Laurie Nelson on April 12, 1985 in Portland, OR at Emmanuel Hospital.  Andy was born very prematurely and required multiple open-heart surgeries as a baby.  He was not expected to reach adulthood. Andy lived his life to fullest and proved the doctors wrong.

As a kid, Andy was a natural on the racetrack.  He began his racing career at the tender age of 6, behind the wheel of a quarter midget as part of the Portland Quarter Midget Racing Association.  He went on to race a junior dragster, go-carts, cage carts, sprint cars, dwarf cars, and a few different drag cars… all before the age of 18.  He won multiple championships and traveled up and down the west coast, including Canada.  Andy grew up and graduated from high school in The Dalles, OR.

Andy’s dream was to be a lifelong racer, a dream that he fulfilled after relocating to North Carolina in 2009.   He arrived in Mooresville with basically the clothes on his back ready to start his new life. He stocked shelves at Walmart, sold meat door-to-door, took a job at Napa… all while trying to break on to the scene.  David Stremme generously welcomed him into his shop to start getting his hands dirty. 

Doggie went on to have a long career with several incredible NASCAR organizations and drivers.  He worked as an interior mechanic and tire specialist and traveled several years with the ARCA Series. He won championships with Brandon Jones, Justin Haley, Ty Gibbs, Sammy Smith, and most recently with a talented young man named William Sawalich. He loved every minute of his work, his team members became his family, and every moment of his career kept a smile on his face.

Andy was the life of every party, and the glue to every friendship and group he was a part of.   You could find him at a variety of local watering holes throughout the week in Mooresville, or really any hole around the United States on the weekend when he traveled with his race team.  He included everyone, cared about everyone, and never met a stranger.  Andy regularly visited his family in Oregon to tackle projects around the house and reconnect with his childhood circle. For some reason, he was always asking what time it was… He would say “getting a call from sissy so you know what time that is?” Kayla would proceed to connect on Facetime and she would have her Jaeger and he would have Jameson along with any friend that he was with to “stay safe.” He loved his sister and especially his niece, Charlotte. He dolled up a Ride-On car for her this past Christmas and the joy of both is still going!

Andy was preceded in death by his father, Norman D Nelson, Aunt Carrie Nelson, and Uncle Mark Nelson;  Grandparents Norm Nelson and Mary Kathryn Chavis.

Andy is survived by his mother Laurie Nelson (The Dalles, OR), sister Kayla Zeigler (husband Dylan, The Dalles, OR), nephew Jaxson Zeigler, and niece Charlotte Zeigler, and grandparents Walt and Beth Smith (The Dalles, OR); Cousins Melissa Gaither (wife Jeri, Portland, OR), Beige Nelson-Cokely (husband Matt, Hood River, OR), and Heather Nelson (Portland, OR).  Aunts Debbie Jones (Portland, OR), Kathy Smith (Portland, OR), Connie Krummrich (The Dalles, OR) and uncle Gary Smith (The Dalles, OR);  Long time roommate Jeff Neuendorf (Mooresville, NC), chosen brother Andrew Holloway, and close friend Cynthia Cantor (Los Angeles, CA).  Andy had a very large chosen family in North Carolina, with simply too many names to list. 

A final safety meeting will be held in Andy’s honor in Mooresville, NC on November 16th, 2024.  Details will follow.

In lieu of flowers, Andy’s family requests memorials to two organizations: the Cajun Army to help victims of the recent hurricanes or Randall Children’s Hospital at Emmanuel, which gifted us 39 years with Andy.  

It was just time for a scenery change, Doggie.  We’ll talk later!

Obituary: Diane Rosalie (Monagan) Bungum, 79, The Dalles

Diane Rosalie (Monagan) Bungum was born August 25, 1945, in rural central New York, near the city of Cortland. Her parents were Clifford and Elinor Monagan, both lifetime employees of the Smith-Corona Typewriter factory in nearby Groton, N.Y. Diane and her older sister and younger brother grew up on a pre-Civil War 56-acre farm where over the years they kept a few horses, cows, pigs, ducks and chickens, as well as the usual dogs and cats. It was a rural life in dairy country, a life she dearly loved, and missed when she left it for college.

She attended the State University of New York in Albany for a couple of years, then joined VISTA and moved to western Oregon in 1965, where she worked with migrant worker families. After that she had various
short-term jobs in the Portland area, including several as a waitress.
She met and married Richard Humphrey there and they had a son, Aiden, before they were divorced. She completed her B.A. degree in English from the University of Oregon in 1973.

That year she met Steve Bungum, a former high school English teacher; they married in Eugene in 1974 and moved to The Dalles the next day, where her husband worked for the next 28 years as Library Media
Specialist at The Dalles High School. Their son Peter was added to the family in 1977. Before the office closed, she worked for several years at Oregon Legal Services (legal aid). That was followed by several
years at the local Community Action Program and at the Center for Living, where she was employed until her retirement in 2002.

Diane was a kind-hearted, hard-working person who could empathize with others, especially those whose life was difficult. She was beloved of many of the developmentally disabled adults she assisted over the years, and enjoyed attending parties and dances with these folks, put on by the ARC of Oregon. She was an avid life-long reader, regularly coming home with a large pile of books from the public library, a
habit she continued long after being diagnosed with dementia around 2020. Diane also loved to travel, and made trips back to see her folks in the home she grew up in, in central N.Y., sometimes with her husband, sometimes alone. Together they visited many relatives, most of whom in the Midwest and East. She also often indulged her husband's love of camping and photographing around Oregon and the West, and also enjoyed travel offering more comfy sleeping arrangements, like hotels, motels, and B & B's!

Diane always liked to be busy doing something, like walking, hiking gardening, cooking and reading. She really liked to watch a good movie in the evening, especially with popcorn! She was very proud of Aiden
and Peter, both of whom have advanced degrees, and loved them dearly, and her eight wonderful grandchildren, who loved their Grandma Diane, and several of whom stepped up to help her as her disease progressed. She was moved to a care facility in Eugene in early July, where, after suffering many difficult times, she passed away on September 29th.

Basically, Diane was a sweet, loving, understanding (usually!) and kind human being, doing her best to be a life-enhancer for others. She will be dearly missed.

Diane is survived by her husband Steve, sons Aiden and Peter, and grandchildren Isaac, Johnpaul, Joseph, Lillian, Evan, Jeremy, Runa and Haakon. No funeral is planned. Remembrances can be made to the ARC of
Oregon, Hospice of the Gorge, and Wasco County Humane Society.

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

Obituary: Barbara Ann Fridley, 96, The Dalles

Barbara Ann Fridley, 96, passed away peacefully from natural causes on Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2024, in The Dalles, OR. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clyde Fridley Jr., and her son Russell D. Fridley, sister Doris Nisbet and brother Gene McConaughy. Barbara is survived by her daughter Teresa Fridley-Willis (Terry) of Goldendale, her son Stuart (Tracey) of Vancouver, WA, and daughter Evelyn (Chris) Hemming, of Bremerton, WA. Grand-children Sarah (Scott) Dickinson and her three beloved great-grandchildren of Goldendale, Grand-children Alena Fridley and Maryn Fridley, Jonathan Hemming and Gavin Hemming.

Born on July 12, 1928, to Dwight and Vera McConaughy, they moved around the Midwest and western states to keep up with the great depression and WW11. They ended up in Wasco, OR.

It was there she met Clyde, who courted her as she was bed-ridden with Rheumatic Fever. It worked! They were married November 28, 1947, in the Wasco Methodist Church. 

They Moved from Wasco to Los Angeles, CA, to Tillamook OR, as Clyde pursued his dream and love of flying. Returning to Wasco, she set about being a wife and mother. 

The following years saw her family grow as she met the challenges that every “farmer’s wife” faces. Lots of hard work, planning for the best but preparing for the rest.  She and Clyde continued to be active in the United Methodist Church.

The summer of 1967 found Barbara and Clyde purchasing another farm and moving their family to Goldendale, WA. It became the home base and continues to be “The Fridley Farm” to this day.

In the early 80’s everything changed when Clyde was diagnosed with cancer. Barbara and Clyde continued to live and learn as they fought to defeat the beast that became a part of the daily battle. Despite their best efforts, Clyde succumbed in March of 1983. 

Barbara, after recovering from the loss of her husband, decided to “do something” with all the knowledge she had accumulated. She went back to school and became a Chaplain and Patient Advocate at Holy Family Hospital in Spokane, WA. Her knowledge and life experiences would become essential as she helped patients, and their loved ones work through the halls and walls of Modern Medicine. She was the one who made the call no one wants to hear, that your loved one has died. From there she would help the surviving family members through the agony of dealing with that reality. Some families requested that she be the one to conduct the funeral services and help with the other details when one is most vulnerable.         

The next day, she might be the pastor for a wedding because of how she helped the couple or family through a difficult time. Through it all she kept her faith and helped others regardless of their beliefs. 

Barbara retired and returned to the farm in Goldendale where she and her husband, Clyde, worked for so many years. She continued her work with the Methodist Women’s group of SW Washington. She was a vocal and visible supporter for peace, despite the insults and gestures hurled her way as she carried a sign calling for Peace rather than bombs. Because it was the right thing to do.

Barbara will be remembered by all who came to know her. Her smile, her kindness and patience, her life-long faith and wisdom will live on in all those she touched. 

Whether through her lifetime of work in the church, her work and time spent at Holy Family Hospital, or her activism promoting peace, Barbara did all she could to make this world a better place until she no longer had the physical strength to go on. 

She will be missed, but her values and faith will live on. 

Barbara’s Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 18th, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. at her Fridley Family Farm.

Obituary: Guadalupe Robledo, The Dalles

It is with great sadness that we announce her unexpected passing. Guadalupe is survived by her children Jose Robledo (Kyndra Scofield), Anthony Zapien, Jasmin Vejar, and Dominic Vejar. Her long-time partner Jorge Vejar Ramirez. Her granddaughters Ximena Robledo and Nami Robledo. Her cousin Jose Luis Aleman (Jasmin Aleman). Her brothers Uriel Sapien, and Jesus Sapien. Her sisters Alicia Sedano, Librada Villa (Frery Villa). She was preceded in death by her father Jesus Zapien Valdovinos, her mother Esther Sapien Aleman, and her brother Gilberto Zapien.                                                             

Lupe was and still is a cherished person who was known for her kind and loving heart. She was a loving mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, spouse, and friend. Her children and grandchildren were the light of her life, and she loved spending time and caring for those she loved, listening to music, planning parties, and playing loteria, and puzzles. She was also known for making the most delicious food. It didn’t matter if she knew you her whole life or just met you yesterday, you would always be welcome, she was the type of person who always made you feel like you were at home. She was headstrong, funny, and always down for a good time.                                                                          

Lupe was a beacon of kindness and the type of person that we should all strive to be, she will forever reside in our hearts, and her spirit will live on through the love she so willingly shared.

Mass will be held at St. Peters Catholic Church, in The Dalles. Thursday, September 26th at 10 am.

Obituary: Jason Doyle Walls, 56, The Dalles

Jason Doyle Walls, 56, a resident of The Dalles, OR passed away at home on September 23, 2024.

Jason was born on August 20, 1968, in Hood River, OR. He attended the first 2 years of school in Hood River, then finished his schooling in The Dalles, graduating from The Dalles High School.

He was an NGA-certified auto glass technician and was a “top performer” in the region at one time. He made his living doing auto glass for many years.

Jason was very active in motorcycle riding and racing, bicycling, camping, and riding his side-by-side. He loved his toys and had many.

He is survived by his mother, Ruth Beecher of The Dalles, OR and her companion Gordon Hinkle; his father, Jack Walls of Warren, OR; stepbrother, Zac; half-sisters, Jennifer and Julia; grandmother, Mary Ruth Walls; stepdad, Terray Harmon; companion Debra Kay Patterson; best friend Ty Tibbets; surrogate sister, Deidre Baumgarten; aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his Grandma and Grandpa Daley, Grandpa Leonard Walls, Uncle Gordie, Uncle Charlie, and Uncle Harold Ray Walls.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, October 12th, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Spooky’s Pizza in The Dalles.

Obituary: Leota Elaine Lariza “Lee”, 92, Hood River

Leota Elaine Lariza “Lee” passed away on October 1st, 2024 in Hood River, Oregon. Lee was born on August 1, 1932, and was 92 years of age at the time of her passing.  

Lee was born in Pierre, South Dakota to Aleta & Ralph Harvey.  She moved with her family to Bremerton, Washington where she attended  Western Washington University and received her Masters in Education.  She met Frank Lariza and soon thereafter the couple were married.

Lee and Frank moved to Eugene, Oregon where she taught elementary at Junction City, Oregon while Frank received his Doctorate from the University of Oregon.  They then moved to Hood River, Oregon where Frank became Superintendent and Lee taught at Chenowith Elementary.  She then taught 3rd grade at Mosier Elementary.  At this time both her and Frank bought their first orchard in Hood River.  Some years later both Lee and Frank retired and traveled together and had all sorts of adventures together.  Frank passed away in 2003.

Lee is survived by children; Michael (& Debbie) Lariza; Don (& Kris) Lariza; grandchildren, Matt, Crystal, Angela, Chase and Trevor.

Private family services are planned and Lee’s urn will be placed with Frank at the family’s orchard.

Education was important to Lee and her family suggests that any donations made be to either the Hood River Library or Hood River Education.

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: Martha (Marty) Goff, 99, The Dalles

Martha (Marty) Goff

Martha (Marty) Goff of The Dalles, Oregon, died September 14, 2024 from aspiration pneumonia at the age of 99.75 years. She clearly did not “go gentle into that good night.” (Thomas, 1948)

Marty was born on December 22, 1922 in Washington, DC to Joseph Anthony and Clara Katherine Dreszler.  She was the sixth of 7 siblings in a military family. Marty had many stories of her childhood growing up on Army bases which she enjoyed sharing. The family transferred to a new military base every other year. She started school in Louisiana and graduated in Maine. Attending schools in 5 States with differing curricula was academically challenging for Marty. There were times when she had to stay after school for tutoring in order to catch up.  Math was especially demanding and she credited her sister, Helen, for her success. It seems big sister managed to share answers on math exams!  Her  problems in school led to a lifelong admiration for students who made the honor roll,  as well as support for teachers and education.

As a young teen, Marty’s favorite military base was in Hawaii, Schofield Barracks.  Marty enjoyed recalling her escape from the base to climb Sacrifice Mountain. Upon successfully reaching the top, she removed her shoes and sat down to enjoy the tropical flowers, birds and the view. However,  Marty was unable to get her shoes back on her swollen, blistered feet for the trip back! Just in time, MPs to the rescue! In another story, a move took the family through the Panama Canal, and Marty managed to get poison oak, itching from San Francisco to New York City! 

Like three of her sisters, Marty became a war bride in 1944, marrying Cpl. James C. Goff in Stockton CA.  After finishing his education, they settled in The Dalles, where Marty was a proud resident for 74 years. She raised four children and volunteered at St Mary’s Academy after her youngest child started school.  

Marty loved singing, reading and baking, but her passions were gardening and sewing. Neighbors called her backyard an oasis or the garden of paradise, filled with small fruits, flowers, vegetables and fruit trees.  Marty could grow anything.

She loved following fashions and could replicate, without a pattern, any dress she saw in a magazine or on TV.  One daughter, as a teenager, wasn’t impressed when Marty sent her off to school in a miniskirt soon after Twiggy popularized it on runaways.  It was not an age one liked to stand out!  Marty was thrilled when her only granddaughter turned out to also be an excellent seamstress. 

She also loved decorating for and celebrating holidays. Marty joined her children cutting out construction paper witches, ghosts, bats and pumpkins for Halloween, decorating cut out cookies for Christmas and coloring Easter eggs.  This love of holidays carried over to keep her connected to far away grandchildren who were thrilled to receive thoughtfully packed “Grannie surprise packages” every holiday.  

When grandchildren were born locally, Marty was delighted.  Throughout her 60s and 70s, she babysat them, enabling her daughter to continue a job she loved.  Education still being a priority for Marty, she returned to St Mary’s as a volunteer during her grandkids’ elementary years. The parents she met then still talk about how delightful and hard-working she was as well as dedicated to the school and her grandkids, taking them out after school for treats and their other activities and on summer weekends, helping out at their events. 

Marty was always kind and uncomplaining. No matter who her kids dragged home, they were made to feel welcome.   One of Marty’s nurses recently commented on Marty being the nicest patient she had ever had. 

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at The Dalles Health and Rehabilitation for surrounding Marty with patience, kindness, and loving care in her final chapter of life. 

Marty is survived by her children, Stacy Alan Goff (Rose Johnston), Teresa Ann Goff-Lindsay (Jan Beks), Mary Jo Larsen (Harry), Stephen James Goff; her  grandchildren,  Camden Lindsay, Richard Larsen (Amanda), Stephanie Bowen (Austin); her great-grandchildren, Finley, Emmerson and Nash Larsen, and Cassidy and Blair Bowen; and her nieces, Suzanne Macri Pilolla, Ann Denart, Megan Garvey, Valerie Macri. 

She was predeceased by her husband, James C Goff; her first born grandchild, Dylan B Lindsay; and her siblings, Mary Vetters, Josephine Brunofsky, Joseph Dressler, Kathy Ashwood, Helen Lally and Fran Macri.

Father Rene will hold a graveside service at 2pm, Oct 11, 2024 at St Peter's Cemetery, The Dalles.

Teresa Goff-Lindsay and her husband welcome interested parties to an open reception following the service until 8 pm. Come and share memories of Marty. For more information email her at MarthaGoff0924@gmail.com

In lieu of flowers, donations to St Peter’s Church would warm Marty’s heart, if you are so inclined.

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

Obituary: Manuel “Manny” Escobar Tactay Jr., 87, Hood River

Manuel “Manny” Escobar Tactay Jr., our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed away peacefully on September 27, 2024, at 87 years old. 

Manny was born on December 21, 1936, to Manuel and Benilda Tactay in Santo Domingo, Ilocos Sur, and raised in Sulvec, Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. He was the third child (firstborn son) of eleven children. His birth name was Tomas, but as an infant, he was very sickly; so due to superstitious beliefs, his parents changed his name to Manuel.

Manny initially met his future bride, Terencia “Terri” (Cabudol) in high school, but their relationship flourished after college.  On January 2, 1965, Manny and Terri were married and blessed with two children, Tiffany, born in 1966, and Troy, born in 1968.  Terri dreamed of moving to the United States for a better opportunity to improve their quality of life. After being approved as a professional CPA in January 1971, she moved to Honolulu, Hawaii leaving her young children and spouse behind.   Manny, with the help of their tight-knit family, cared for Tiffany and Troy. They communicated through weekly letters until they reunited on November 14, 1971. Together Manny and Terri built a wonderful life, teaching their children the value of hard work, family, faith, and the importance of education.

In 1976, Manny and Terri became US Citizens. He worked as a foreman for Hawaiian Dredging and a superintendent for SCI working on the H-3 Viaduct. He had a green thumb, growing papaya, guava, mango, and a variety of Filipino vegetables. After being a partner in a construction firm, Integrated Builders, Inc., and owning a painting company, Hawaii Pacific Painting, Inc., he proudly built his own house in a gated community in Makaha, HI, where they lived for 14 years.

Family meant everything to Manny. He enjoyed family reunions, showing his family visitors around town, and keeping up with his siblings and other extended family members through letters and phone calls. After he and Terri became grandparents, they wanted to be closer to their children and grandkids. After they retired, in August 2004, they moved to Hood River to be near their son, Troy, and his growing family.

Manny is survived by his wife, Terri Tactay; his children, Tiffany (Mark) Murphy, and Troy Tactay; grandchildren, Conor (Victoria) Murphy, Sean (Jennifer) Murphy, Malia Murphy, Jonah Tactay, Keone Tactay, Lilah Tactay; great-granddaughter, Isabelle Murphy; siblings, Fe Villamor, Remigio (Norma) Tactay, Estrella (Johnny) Franco, Norman Tactay, and Noemi Tactay; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A Catholic Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 5th, 2024 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church (1501 Belmont Ave, Hood River, Oregon).  Graveside Rites will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.  A reception will follow Manny’s graveside service at Anderson's Tribute Center (1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon). 

Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family or to watch a live stream of Manny’s funeral mass.

Obituary: Laurene Lou (Hayzlett) Sallee, 85, The Dalles

Laurene Lou Hayzlett

Laurene Lou Sallee, born February 16, 1938, in Portland, Oregon, to Marietta Cross-Hayzlett and Andrew Hayzlett, passed peacefully on September 21, 2024.

Laurene’s family moved to The Dalles around 1949, where she graduated from The Dalles High School in 1954. In 1970, she married Bill Sallee, the love of her life, and together they shared 54 wonderful years. While raising her four children, Laurene balanced various jobs and activities, though her true passion lay in caring for her family.

A dedicated gardener, Laurene spent countless hours cultivating her garden, experimenting with different plants and landscaping ideas. Her beautiful garden was featured in a local garden tour, a proud moment for her. Laurene also had a knack for creating beautiful flower arrangements, once transforming the woodshed into a flower shed where she sold dried arrangements and rustic benches made by Bill.

Family was at the heart of Laurene’s life. She loved hosting gatherings, holidays, and celebrations, cherishing the time spent with her children, grandchildren, and extended family, including her brothers and the many reunions with the Hayzlett and Sallee families. She also had a special fondness for the Oregon Coast, where countless joyful memories were made.

Laurene loved to travel. Her and Bill went on many road trip adventures across the United States and Canada, often meeting up with her best friend, Dawn Galliano, and her husband, Bruno, along the way.

She is survived by her four children: son Paul Sallee and daughters Tina (Brett) Kaseberg, Dawn (Jeff) Sallee-Justesen, and Nancy Sallee; her grandchildren Stephanie, Stacey, Casey, Cody, Corin, Shelby, Hollee, Maggie, Hunter, Nathan, and Lilly; ten amazing great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

Laurene was preceded in death by her brothers Dick, Roland, Wesley, Winston, and Frank; her parents; her grandson William Justesen; and her cherished friend Dawn Galliano.

A memorial gathering will be held on October 4th at 1 PM at the Bargeway Pub Event Space.

Obituary: Stephen Kelly Ford, 66, Hood River

Stephen grew up in Edgecliff, Texas (a small community outside Fort Worth) and was the oldest of three brothers. Adventure, Life Experiences, and Family were always a top priority in the Ford house; every summer, the family would road trip to new destinations, which always included visiting extended family.

Stephen preferred to spend most of his free time outdoors, making friends and creating adventures wherever possible. Whether riding his motorcycle or trying to teach the family walking horse to buck, Stephen was an instigator of fun and a lover of animals.

 From a young age, Stephen was drawn to alternative sports like rock climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, rodeo, hockey, rugby, and windsurfing. During college, Stephen joined the pro rodeo circuit as a rough stock rider, where he attempted, sometimes successfully, to stay on bucking broncos bareback and riding bulls. Success meant bringing home a few belts, several knocked-out teeth, and usually just enough money to get him to the next event. Through rodeo, he made lifelong friends Stephen would always refer to as family.

 During his early years, Stephen learned the value of hard work. Whether bucking hay, working in construction in the Texas heat, or driving heavy machinery, Stephen never shied away from the tough jobs, and he always found a way to “cowboy up and git R done!”

 Stephen attended Texas Tech University, where he was a member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity; the University of Wyoming, where he earned a Bachelor of Science with a major in Geology; and Texas Christian University, where he studied Real Estate, Finance, and Accounting. An opportunity to take on a foreign assignment with General Dynamics prevented him from completing his master’s degree.

 As a global logistics manager on F-16 programs at General Dynamics, Stephen helped families relocate to overseas positions successfully. His work took him to Taiwan, Korea, and Israel. These experiences profoundly shaped his perspective and deepened his appreciation for his U.S. citizenship.

 Once back in the United States, Stephen took a "walkabout" in his truck camper, seeking new adventures and the perfect place to begin the next phase of his life. He found it in Bend, Oregon, where he settled down with his first wife, Marsha, whom he met while mountain biking in Utah. In Bend, he embarked on a remarkable career in commercial real estate.

 In 2003, Stephen met his second wife, Karen, through a mutual friend and mentor. Their relationship led to the most epic adventure of his life: raising their son, Parker. The family moved to Hood River in 2005, where Stephen became a vibrant and committed community member. Though they divorced in 2020, Stephen and Karen's dedication to co-parenting Parker in the family home led to a strengthened relationship, marked by mutual respect and friendship that has endured to this day.

 Stephen was known by many of his colleagues as a compassionate person who happened to be a commercial broker. His motto in or outside work was always "treat others as you want to be treated." Therefore, he approached most interactions with empathy, honesty, politeness, and respect. He even gave random telemarketers the courtesy of his time before politely declining their call while offering them feedback and ideas.

 Stephen earned the CCIM designation, demonstrating his expertise in commercial real estate, investment, market, and financial analyses. He mentored many in the Portland and Columbia Gorge communities and was a valuable resource for discussing potential commercial investments.

 Forever grateful to be a part of this community, Stephen was always eager to give back. He did so through his various affiliations, such as the Rotary Club, where he served one term as Hood River Chapter President, as a Lego League Robotics Coach, as a multi-year trail guide at Mountain Bike Oregon, and by working to improve mountain bike trails and elk habitat.

 Once Parker reached high school, Stephen vigorously pursued his burgeoning passions for fly fishing and bow hunting. He eventually bought a camper and began planning his retirement, which included cruising around the US to hunt, fish, and mountain bike with friends.

 In early June of this year, just one year into semi-retirement, Stephen received the shocking news of metastatic bladder cancer. He faced this diagnosis head-on with determination. His due diligence in investigating treatment options led him to join an immunotherapy trial at MD Anderson in Houston before cystectomy. Three days after his first infusion, Stephen fell ill and began to decline quickly. While many believed his discomfort was due to an adverse reaction to the therapy, a scan eventually revealed radical metastasis, including bone cancer.

 Through his swift decline, Stephen was surrounded by love. His dear friends in Houston, Karen, younger brother Roger, Parker, his deeply committed sister and brother-in-law, and the expert team at Providence Hospice supported him. It should be noted that before entering hospice, Stephen received the most loving and professional care from the 2nd-floor nurses and CNAs at Providence Hood River, a nurturing experience for which his family is forever grateful.

 Here are a few of Stephen's favorite things: family, Tex Mex, Texas BBQ, a top-shelf margarita, live music, playing guitar, hitting the trails on his mountain bike or with a ruck, tracking elk, archery, trap shooting, fly fishing, smoking meat, camping with friends, and the Dallas Cowboys.

 Stephen is survived by his loving son, Parker; his ex-wife and life partner, Karen; his younger brother, Roger; his nieces and nephews, Raegan, Romy, Ryan, Johnny, Jessica, and Jake; his in-laws, Gordie, Mike, Cathy, Crystal, and Sandy; numerous awesome cousins and his sweet dog, Migo. Our hearts mourn, but we know Stephen is finally pain-free and conjuring another adventure from heaven while reuniting with his deceased parents and brother, Larry.

 SERVICE

 Private family services will be held in Hood River, Oregon, and Fort Worth, Texas. Throughout the year, celebrations of life will be planned for Stephen's community of close friends, colleagues, and extended relatives.

 Instead of flowers, please consider donating to the Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund in honor of Stephen. The fund invests in projects that connect youth and families in diverse and underserved communities to the outdoors, as well as programs that restore healthy ecosystems to benefit Oregon's fish and wildlife and improve the health of our environment for future generations.

 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.

Celebration of Life: Cheryl Atkins, The Dalles

October 19, 2024, at Eagles Lodge, 700 W 8th, The Dalles, OR. The Marriott is next door if you are joining from out of town and looking for a place to stay.

4 p.m. to 7 p.m. is remembering Cheryl and sharing memories (write them down if you want to read or have someone read but can also leave with the family to feel your love for Cheryl). Pictures and videos of Cheryl's life of fun with friends and family will be enjoyed. Eagles Auxiliary provides sliders, coffee, tea, and punch, we welcome any potluck food and there will be a bar available if you want other beverages.

BIG RIVER BLUES BAND 7-10 p.m. on the band stage, after we share memories with family and all friends who want to join. With Cheryl in our hearts, we will dance the evening away. Open to the public, non-member cover charge 3.00. Eagles Lodge. Come whenever you can.

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

Obituary: Jean Louise Greiner, 91, The Dalles

It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that we inform you of the death of Jean Louise Greiner who went on to embrace her loved ones that preceded her in death on August 27, 2024, at the age of 91.

Jean was born on June 26, 1933, to Miranda (Peggy) and Arthur Howell. She attended The Dalles High School before marrying Joseph H. Greiner in 1954. Jean worked as a Domestic Goddess raising seven children while also attending to the needs of farming life. She also worked 20+ years as a seasonal employee at the Oregon Cherry Growers.

She was a shining example of kindness, empathy, and bringing Joy to those around her. Jean was preceded in death by her husband Joseph Greiner Sr., Daughter Kathy Adams, Son Joseph Greiner Jr., Daughter Susan Pezzeti, Son Thomas Greiner, Her parents, Peggy and Arthur Howell, her Brothers Duane, Dick, and Alan Howell and her Sister Betty Harlan.

She is survived by Daughter Diana Shields, Daughter Patty and Husband Tim Latham, Daughter Annette Heideman, Grand Children B.J Lynch, Tony Lynch (Wife Angie), Stephanie and Kevin Shields, Curtis Pezzeti, Jacob Latham, Kalvin Latham (Wife Marissa), Dustin Heideman (Wife Angela), Tom Heideman, Joseph and Nicholas Greiner, and many Great Grand Children.

A Graveside Service is scheduled for Friday, September 6, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at St. Peter’s Cemetery. Spencer Libby & Powell are in charge of arrangements.

Obituary: James Wilson Wham, 75, The Dalles

James Wilson Wham, 75, passed peacefully into heaven on May 6, 2024, in his home, The Dalles Oregon, after a year-long battle with cancer. Jim was born June 13, 1948, in Walla Walla, Washington to Roy Albert “Abie” Wham and Wilma Lorraine Amis.

The family moved next to Kinzua in Wheeler County, where Abie was a foreman of the dry chain at the Kinzua planer mill, and from there to Dayville in about 1952. In 1956 they moved to John Day, where Jim’s mother remarried Robert Edward Larkin. Jim attended Grant Union High School and graduated in 1966. He served in The United States Army in Thailand during the Vietnam War.

Then worked at Bob Larkin’s Arco station, as a mechanic and drove gas and oil delivery trucks until the mid-seventies when he discovered his deep talent in photography. That led to the lifelong career he loved. In 1983 Jim married Wendy Wiggins and moved to The Dalles where they made their home. Jim became a professional portrait, sports, and school photographer.

He and Wendy operated Cascade Color Lab, a one-hour photo processing lab in the Columbia Gorge. He relished scenic night and Milky Way photography and won an award for his spectacular photo of The Hale Bopp Comet. Jim loved to garden. His tomato crop was legendary, often covering one side of the house in the summer.

He was preceded in death by his father Roy “Abie” Wham, stepfather Robert Larkin, mother Wilma Larkin, and his sisters Donna Walter, Cherill Oury, and Lori Larkin. He is survived by his wife Wendy Wham, son James E. Wham, daughter Melody Blackwell, grandchildren Izzak Heiser, Mary Jayne Heiser, David Blackwell, Scarlett Blackwell, Baylee Rue Wham and great-grandson Leon Jones.

A Military Graveside service will be held on October 19, 2024, at 1:00 pm at the Dayville Cemetery, with a Celebration of Life following, at the Dayville Community Hall.

Obituary: Jolene Petersen, 70, The Dalles

Jolene Petersen, age 70, died August 27, 2024, at her home in The Dalles, Oregon. She was born September 8, 1953, to Donald and Marilyn Petersen of The Dalles, Oregon.

Jolene was creative – she loved color – and her sense of humor and imagination were evident to those who knew her. She loved and cared for her family and chose to raise two of her grandchildren from birth. She was a caring and selfless person who always made the best out of what she had.

Jolene is survived by her mother, Marilyn; children, Sarah, and Stephen; six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a third child, Elisia; and a father, Donald.

Jolene will be missed by her many friends and loved ones. A private Celebration of Life with family and friends is unscheduled at this time.

Obituary: Chuck Overmyer, 80, The Dalles

The memorial for Chuck Overmyer will be held at the Celilo Bowmen Archery Range on October 5th at 12:00 PM. Everyone invited, please RSVP Celilo Bowmen Archers if planning to attend.

Charles L. Overmyer, 80, born June 18th, 1944, at Eau Claire Wi, passed away July 18th at home with heart failure.

son of Roy and Mary (Clark) Overmyer. Chuck is survived by devoted pardner of 45 years, Dorothy Heldeman, daughters, Emily Johnson (Brad), Tina Wolfgram, (Jeff), Brenda Mahr, Tara Overmyer, and Sons, Joseph Overmyer (Erica), and Mikel Heideman and numerous grandchildren.

Chuck was passionate about hunting and archery, Chuck received his first bow from an auction at the Mule deer Foundation from Bob Kendall and from then on was an avid archer. He loved spending times at the Celllo Bowmen Archery Range and wore many hats, Including president, vice-president, range master, Chuck would be at the range on an almost daily basis, taking care of grounds and shooting his bow and just visiting. Chuck and Det enjoyed participating in various archery shoots. Some people would say that Chuck was the heart of the archery range always willing to help and always willing to share his passion

of archery with anyone who wanted to leam. Chuck retired after 30 years at the Oregon Cherry Growers where he made lifetime friends. Chuck is deeply missed by those who loved him.

Obituary: Sharon Lee Simantel, 84, Moro

On August 1, 2024, the family of Sharon Lee Simantel said goodbye to their beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Sharon was born on October 6, 1939, in Salem, Oregon, the youngest of three siblings. Not long after graduating from high school, she married Loran Roland Simantel, her husband of 59 years until his passing. Roland and Sharon moved to a farm in Gilliam County and began their lives together. They started their family, having four children, Jon, David, Nancy, and Robert. In 1971 the family moved to Sherman County. As the children grew and moved on, Sharon became more active in volunteering and helping out in the community. They also began to travel more and really enjoyed RVing with friends.

Sharon is survived by four children, 10 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. Jon (wife Julie and children Amanda, Maggie and Annie), David (children Cody wife Emily and son Colton and Chelsi partner Jullian and children Leiana, Kailynn and Lillian, and stepdaughter Brandi)

Nancy (husband Larry and children Haylee husband Mitch and sons Madden and Keller, Addison wife Erin and daughter Isla), Robert (wife Rheann and children Mitch wife Emily and children Owen and Parker, Brian partner Lisa, and stepchildren Brandon wife Dakota and sons Colton and Chandler, Katie husband Mic and Cameron).

Sharon is preceded in death by her husband, Roland, parents, James and Thelma, brothers James and Richard, and grandson Michael.

The family would like to extend a huge thank you to all who helped to care for Sharon in her final days at The Springs Assisted Care, Adventist Hospital, and Providence Hospice. A service is planned for September 14th at the Moro Community Presbyterian Church at 2:00 p.m. with a gathering to follow hosted by friends of Sharon's throughout the community. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of choice.

Obituary: Vernon E Dearden, 94, Trout Lake, Wash.

Vernon E Dearden was born December 2, 1929, in Martinez, California. He spent much of his childhood hunting and fishing with his older brother in the San Francisco Bay close to his house. He often talked of hunting along the railroad tracks close to the bay and running into homeless camps as he grew up during America’s Great Depression.

As he entered high school, he enjoyed playing football and basketball. He graduated from Alhambra High School in 1947 and 3 years later married 17-year-old Mary Davis. He would be married for 71 years before Mary passed away 3 years ago. —- Shortly after marriage Vern got a job at Union Oil Company Refinery as an operator, which he kept for 37 years until he retired at 58.

Along the way he raised 3 boys, David, Doug, and Brad, passing on to them the things he loved: hunting, fishing, sports, and eventually his love of Jesus. At the age of 34, his life made a dramatic turn as he gave his life to Jesus Christ. He spent the rest of his life serving in a number of churches as well as sharing his faith with others.

In his 40’s my dad took up running and golf. He enjoyed running in the hills surrounding his home in Martinez, sometimes putting in as many as 40 miles per week. After running became difficult he walked daily, even walking 2 miles per day, into his late eighties. As a retired person, he enjoyed golfing 3 times a week at the Oroville Golf Club. There he met numerous friends. He enjoyed playing golf with friends and the love of his life Mary. When Mary developed cancer, he spent many years caring for her, making sure that she was taking the appropriate medications and helping around the house. Together they made an excellent team, each using their strengths to benefit the other!

Vernon is survived by his son Doug, six grandchildren (Elizabeth, Alexandra, and Rachel Dearden, Matthew, Timothy and Luke Dearden), and eight grandchildren. In his final years in assisted living, he continued to tell others about his faith and had a positive outlook on life until his passing to heaven on August 30, 2024, at the age of 94.

A short burial service will be held on Friday, September 13 @ 10am at the Wyandotte Cemetery in Oroville, California.

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

Obituary: Darold LeRoy Arrington, 90, Parkdale

Darold LeRoy Arrington

Darold LeRoy Arrington came into this world on June 7, 1934 in Medford, Oregon. He was an only child to his parents Lloyd W Arrington and Bertha C. Whiteley Arrington.

In his early years, his father worked in logging camps around Oregon, but when it came time to settle down and go to school, Darold’s father cleared a place in Canby, Oregon and built a home with no indoor plumbing, but it had a well with an indoor pump. Over the years the family moved to Yreka, Portland and then to Jacksonville to be near family. Darold’s father passed away when Darold was only 15, and he and his mother moved to Portland before eventually settling in Long Beach, California.

In 1957 Darold was drafted into the US Army where he served honorably for three years. When he got out of the Army, he went to work for North America Aviation & Autonetics in Santa Ana, California. There he met Jenna Lee Coady on a blind date, and they were married on September 23, 1961. They moved to Orange, California and had five children.

In 1970, Darold moved his family to Roseburg, Oregon for a short time before settling in Parkdale, Oregon in 1971 where he resided for 52 years. Over the years, Darold showed his handy side by his ability to fix anything from plumbing, electronics, and mechanics while he worked for Ted Hackett’s TV and repair, Paul Henny as well as Paddock’s fixing CB radios. In 1979 he was hired on at The United Telephone Company as a Central Office Technician until he retired in 1999. Darold was a hard worker and made sure Jenna Lee was able to maintain her dream of keeping horses and a small farm. He was always bucking hay even though he had hay fever.

Throughout his life, Darold played the guitar and sang for the community and his church. Those who knew him will tell you that his voice rang out with a beautiful clarity. He even continued to sing for residents and staff at Brookside during his last year there. We will miss that voice very much.

Darold was adventurous, and he traveled the world with Jenna Lee by his side. They visited Hawaii, The Caribbean, Bahamas, Cook Islands, Fiji, Alaska, Canada, and took a three-month trip to Australia, New Zealand and Tasmania as well as a total of 6 months across the United States!

Darold was wonderful husband and father as well as a faithful man, serving his church as a Deacon, teacher and singer.

Darold is survived by his wife of 62 years, Jenna Lee Arrington; His children Bryon (Dixie); Bruce (Hope); Brad; Julie (Tony) Clark; and Justine (John) Andersen. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 6 great -grandchildren.

“Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91:1

A memorial service for Darold will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 10 a.m. at Faith Bible Church, 1889 Belmont Drive, Hood River, Oregon 97031.

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

Obituary: Richard Harry Edstrom, 86, The Dalles

Richard Harry Edstrom

June 29, 1938 – August 28, 2024

Richard Harry Edstrom

Richard, affectionately known as “Dick” or “Dirty Harry” to those who knew him best, passed away on August 28, 2024, at the age of 86 at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital. He was a beloved husband, stepfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Dick’s larger-than-life personality and infectious sense of humor will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Dick lived a full and adventurous life. He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Air Force, where he developed a strong sense of duty and camaraderie that would stay with him throughout his life. Following his military service, Dick found his calling in several professions that allowed him to help others and share his many talents.

He spent time as a firefighter, bravely working to protect his community, and as a ski instructor where he shared his love for the slopes with countless students. Dick was also a successful entrepreneur, co-owning a company that specialized in installing elevators. His work ethic and skills were unmatched, and he took great pride in every job he completed.

In later years, Dick enjoyed a different pace of life as a cashier at Walmart, where he worked for 10 years. He loved the people he worked with and formed lasting friendships with both coworkers and customers alike. Dick also helped his wife, Bonnie with her cat rescue.

Dick’s interests were as varied as his career. He was an avid NASCAR fan, a passionate sailor, and a lover of music and dancing. Whether he was fixing or building something, sharing a laugh with friends, or enjoying his morning coffee and a beer at the local watering hole, Dick lived every moment to the fullest. His ability to bring joy and laughter to those around him was one of his most cherished gifts.

Dick is survived by his wife, Bonnie Edstrom; his stepdaughter, Leanne Stemmer; his sisters, Joanne Ahmad and Molly Forsberg and many nieces, nephews, and close friends who will remember him with fondness and admiration.

A viewing was held Thursday, August 29, 2024, at Anderson’s Tribute Center. Dick will be laid to rest at Willamette National Cemetery.

Rest in peace, Dick. You will be forever missed but never forgotten.

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: Joshua Merle Thompson, 45, Wamic

Joshua Merle Thompson was born April 13, 1979, to James L. Thompson and June Marie (Iverson) Thompson in The Dalles. From his earliest days, he could regularly be found either with his family or out of doors, enjoying spending most of his time on the family farm in Wamic.

After graduating from The Dalles High in 1997 Josh sought to further his passion outside by pursuing studies in agriculture and forestry. Through education and many of life’s other adventures, he was regularly found beside his cousin Travis who was his partner in crime for many of his life experiences.

Josh led a life of service to others. He started his public service career in 2000 with the Wasco County Soil and Water Conservation District, where his goal was to help the local agricultural producers find greater success and enhance the local agricultural heritage and community. Outside of work, he also spent most of his life volunteering with local fire services, first with Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue in The Dalles and most recently with Wamic Rural Fire Protection District.

Josh was also known in the community as the type of person who was always first to raise his hand to help, no matter what the need. He served on multiple volunteer boards, from the school district to local wildlife groups and everything in between. He never said no, and inspired others around him to lean in and help where needed.

Josh truly found his calling when he met Michelle Ongers and started the family that became the center of his world. His children: Ian, Dallas, Ryker, William, and Kaylee meant everything to him. Everything Josh did from the moment he became a father was framed from a family-first perspective. Josh especially enjoyed introducing his children to his passion for the outdoors, and most conversations with him of late started with a story of him and his kids on the farm, in a lake, or in the outdoors.

Josh moved to the family farm in 2017 to become the third generation to work on the land he loved, helping his uncle carry on the Iverson legacy that he wanted to pass on to generations in the future.

Josh is survived by his parents Jim and June, his children: Ian (20), Dallas (16), Ryker (14), William (11), and Kaylee (8), his brother Jeremy and his family, cousin Travis and family, Aunts Ruby and Betty, Uncles David, Jay and Herbie, and innumerable other cousins- many of whom truly were closer than title can convey.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any desired donations be sent to the South Wasco County School District to be used toward the finalization of the athletics upgrade project in the form of a scoreboard, a project that Josh was actively involved in. Please include “JT Scoreboard Fund” on any donation made so the school can properly assign funds, and to ensure receipts are directed to donors.