Obituary: Naomi (Harshbarger) Frisbie, 103, Hood River Valley

Naomi (Harshbarger) Frisbie

Naomi (Harshbarger) Frisbie was born July 9, 1921, to Sarah Olive (Clark) and Orvil Earl Harshbarger in Drummond, Idaho. Her parents had moved out west from Kansas to start a farm of their own they named the Yellowstone Ranch as it was southwest of Yellowstone National Park in Southeast Idaho.

Naomi found her spot in the family very special with four older brothers to entertain her and an older sister to share chores and then a younger sister to play with. They had the only home in the area with indoor plumbing and generated their own electricity. Her bedroom was upstairs above the bathroom, so they received heat from below and had a gorgeous view of the Teton Mountains to the east. She always commented how she loved to look out on her mountains and what an idyllic childhood she had with hard work, family and friends, weekend picnics, walking or skiing to school, listening to the radio, reading, swimming in nearby Squirrel Creek and riding horses, especially her favorite, Old Sunny. Her dad farmed hay and grain with a team of horses and later with a steam tractor before modernizing to combustion engine machinery. During the depression her parents took on any extra work they could to keep the family and farm together. Naomi didn’t have extras but on a farm she didn’t go hungry. She kept the depression economy mentality of many people from her generation and struggled to get rid of anything because she might need it someday. Waste not, want not.

Education was encouraged in her family for both boys and girls, so it was important to Naomi and she received a 4-H scholarship to study home economics in Idaho, California and Oregon where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in 1947. During World War II times were hard and she had to work to save money before finishing her education. She taught high school in Kendrick, Idaho and later taught kindergarten and adult tailoring in California. She met Harold Raymond Frisbie while attending Oregon State University. One of her favorite sorority sisters was Marjorie Frisbie who had talked her brother into attending a dance with her as there would be an “older” gal. He wasn’t interested in dancing with young girls because he had just returned from 6 years serving in the Navy. After that dance a courtship developed including lots of dances with Harold in his be-ribboned Navy uniform and Nomy in the dresses she designed and sewed. They were married in Ashton, Idaho on September 7, 1947.

After marriage, Harold and Naomi moved to California where Harold had a job as a chemical engineer for Shell Oil Company. Naomi taught kindergarten in Martinez before son Norman was born in 1950. Joella followed in 1953 (not in 1952 like Margie likes to tease). Like every other mother in the neighborhood, Naomi stayed home with the children. From California, Harold’s work took them back to Oregon for 4 years, returning to California in 1957, 3 weeks before Margie was born.

Naomi led a very busy life raising a family, which included her mother who moved in with the family when Naomi’s dad died soon after Margie’s birth. She still found time to volunteer with Boy Scouts, 4-H, and PTA. There are many young girls who fondly remember learning to sew and cook in her 4-H classes. She was proud to have been a founding member of the Martinez, CA branch of American Association of University Women and stayed active in that organization for over 70 years.

Naomi returned to teaching in the 1960’s when her children were a little older. She substituted at Martinez middle and high school and taught night classes in sewing. She taught Microwave cooking when microwaves were the newest technology. She also took night classes in pottery and upholstery, recovering most of the family furniture.

Naomi and Harold always enjoyed the beauty of the Hood River Valley, where Harold had been raised and he still had family. They bought a small apple orchard to retire on and moved to the farm in 1982. As young retirees, they had lots of energy for projects around their house and on the farm, but they also enjoyed being around family and joining the local community. They grew a large garden, went camping, had picnics, picked huckleberries (always a full day adventure – ending with very purple tongues).

Naomi joined the Odell Garden Club and enjoyed years of flower arranging that brought out her artistic abilities and she made many wonderful friends. She always had flower arrangements in her house and would share arrangements for almost any reason. She specialized in the tall (3’) arrangements at the county fair – and was proud of receiving a best of show honor on more than one occasion.

Naomi was happy that all three of her children decided to move to the Hood River Valley and live nearby raising their families. Naomi was always game to go to any school or sporting activity where one of her 3 grandsons was participating. Sometimes you had to explain the sport to her (she never understood soccer), but she would cheer with enthusiasm. All three of her grandsons know how to make her Christmas crescent rolls and they carry on the tradition to this day. She and Harold loved playing games with grandsons and their friends. All three boys are excellent at math having spent many hours playing dominos and counting dots to make multiples of five and receive the maximum points possible.

Naomi also hosted family reunions, picnics, dinners, camping trips and always made delicious pies for special occasions. Her trick was to use ice water (not room temperature) in the crust, roll the dough on a pastry cloth and using an unvarnished wood rolling pin. She even packed a cast iron skillet on a two-day backpack trip down Eagle Creek to fry eggs and bacon for breakfast. That’s dedication.

In the go-go years of retirement, Harold and Naomi took many trips including Elder Hostels and cruises with friends. They purchased a trailer and used it for trips to Arizona and to Brookings, OR to escape the winter inversion at home. Always they were joining with family and friends on these trips – so evenings would be a group meal and a card game for their evening entertainment. You would be amazed what she made in that tiny trailer kitchen oven. Her biggest travel adventure was a solo visit to stay with her brother Jake in Tanzania, East Africa, where she went on safari and was awed by the beauty of the country, the friendly people she met during her stay and all the wild animals in their natural environment – not in a zoo.

Naomi started going to the Hood River pool after her first knee replacement and went consistently for the next 34 years. The Hood River Valley Parks and Rec awarded her a lifetime pass when she had her 100th birthday party at the pool. She swore that her consistent exercise and socialization, at the pool, was a major contributor to her long and healthy life.

She had a huge loss when Harold died in 2015. They had been married for 67 years. She survived, but was knocked back when her son, Norman, died in 2016. Again, she picked herself up and was determined to live in the home that she loved. She was able to stay there, living alone, for 7 years. This spring she moved to Parkhurst Place where she enjoyed the care and companionship she received, and the special care provided by Bobbi’s Way.

At 103, she was the last survivor of her generation in the family. She is survived by her daughters and their husbands: Joella and Paul Dethman, Margie and Jim Byrne; three grandsons and their wives: Jesse and Joann Dethman, Craig Dethman and Joanna Volger, Matt Byrne and Lauren Kolojejchick-Kotch; and her 2 great-grandchildren: Calvin Dethman and Frances Byrne. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, other extended family as well as many friends as she treated as her family.

A Service will be held at Anderson’s Tribute Center (Hood River, OR), Saturday, December 21, 2:00 with a reception following the ceremony. A private interment will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations can be made to FISH (food bank) or The Next Door, Inc.

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: Allan Vernon Minor, 68, The Dalles

Allan Vernon Minor, age 68, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on December 19, 2024.

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

Death Notice: Daniel Wai Lewis-Hong-Allen, 24, The Dalles

Daniel Wai Lewis-Hong-Allen, age 24, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on December 20, 2024.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, December 28, 2024, 10:00 AM at Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home 1100 Kelly Ave, The Dalles, OR 97058. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

Death Notice: Margaret Sally Suppah, 92, Simnasho

Margaret Sally Suppah, age 92, a resident of Simnasho, OR, passed away on December 18, 2024.

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

Death Notice: Alice Jean Peterson, 75, Lyle

Alice Jean Peterson, age 75, a resident of Lyle, WA, passed away on December 18, 2024.

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

Death Notice: James Woodrow Vogt, 89, The Dalles

James Woodrow Vogt, age 89, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on December 6, 2024.

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

Obituary: Larry Edward Kaseberg, 89, Wasco

Larry Edward Kaseberg

Larry Edward Kaseberg

Aug. 25, 1935 — Dec. 15, 2024

A fourth-generation wheat and cattle rancher in Sherman County, Larry Edward Kaseberg, died on December 15, 2024, in The Dalles, Oregon. He was born on August 25, 1935, in The Dalles, to Lawrence and Marguerite (Foss) Kaseberg.

Larry grew up on the family ranch near Wasco, Oregon, attended Wasco Grade School and Moro High School, and was active in athletics, 4-H and Boy Scouts. He was a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity at Oregon State College, and joined the Reserve Officer Training Corps. He later served in the National Guard and Reserve. He graduated from OSC (now Oregon State University) in 1957 with a B.S. in Agriculture. In 1958, he married Sheryl Jane “Sherry” Woods, and together they raised four sons.

In 1970, Larry founded Wheatacres Irrigation, supported by the younger generations in the family. His passions included flying his plane, managing a 30-year cattle lease on Miller Island, and hosting OSU crop trials and soils classes. He volunteered for scouting, 4-H, Little League and the Sherman County Historical Museum.

He served on the boards of Wasco Electric Cooperative, Oregon Wheat Growers League, Agri-Business Council, and Ag Research Foundation. He accompanied OSU scientists to seminars in Argentina, Tunisia, the Baltic States and Mexico. He and Sherry were inducted into the OSU College of Agricultural Sciences Hall of Fame, and in 2012, OSU named a soft white wheat variety for the family.

Larry is survived by his wife Sherry, and their children: Collin (Michelle), Kevin, Cameron (Jon), and Christopher (Carrie); grandchildren: Wade, Hannah (Travis Feigner), Evan (Cassie), Walker, Jeff Duncan-Sherman (Darren), Danny Sherman (Morgan), Nicole, Eliot (Whitney), Jessica (Josh Ball), and Karolyn (Brandon Wenschlag); great-grandchildren: Jase, Kinsley, and Maren Feigner; Joshua James Jr. and Virginia Ball; Reagan and Adley Kaseberg; Olivia Lemo Kaseberg-Riley; and niece and nephew, Susan (Ralph Fisher) and Shawn Skiles (Peggy). He was preceded in death by his sister, Patricia (Kaseberg) Skiles.

The family will host a Celebration of Life at a later date. Memorials may be sent to the OSU Agricultural Research Foundation at https://agresearchfoundation.oregonstate.edu/donate-now or the Sherman County Historical Society, https://www.shermanmuseum.org.

Death Notice: Larry Edward Kaseberg, 89, Wasco

Larry Edward Kaseberg, age 89, a resident of Wasco, OR, passed away on December 15, 2024.

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

Obituary: Michael Joseph Sampson, 38, Lyle

Michael Joseph Sampson died tragically on December 9th, 2024 in Hood River, Oregon. Michael was born May 2nd, 1986 in Yakima, Washington and was 38 years of age at the time of his death.   

Michael was born on May 2nd, 1986, he was the middle child of Marlene Marie Sampson. Michael attended Dallesport Elementary, Lyle Middle School, and Lyle High School. He is survived by his cherished daughters, Mattie and Bella. He will be remembered for his love of treaty fishing along the Columbia River, his dedication to his work as a fisherman, and his strength and hardworking spirit. One of Michael's best attributes was being the best big brother, always protective, and always mindful of his little sister Minnie. They grew up facing lots of life challenges and joys together. His presence in her life was a gift, he left an indelible mark on those who knew him.

While Michael left us too soon, his family and friends will cherish those memories of him forever. Michael left behind his daughters Mattie, and Bella, sisters Susan, and Minnie, and their children: Julian and his son T.J., Zavier, Addelyn, Gordan, Justin, Jessica, and River.

A celebration of his life will be held on Monday the 16th of December at the Anderson Tribute Center (1401 Belmont Ave, Hood River, Oregon 97031). Michael will be laid to rest at The Lyle Longhouse Cemetary (270 Canyon Road Lyle WA 98635) at 11 a.m., with a meal to follow at The Lyle Lions Club (503 SR 14 Lyle, WA 98635).

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: Michael David McCallum, 82, The Dalles

Michael David McCallum passed away on December 7th, 2024 at his home in The Dalles, Oregon. Michael was born on January 2nd, 1942, and was 82 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 Notice: Lowell Edward Smith, 78, Grass Valley

Lowell Edward Smith, age 78, a resident of Grass Valley, OR, passed away on December 6, 2024. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

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

Death Notice: Clifford Eugene O’Dell, 76, The Dalles

Clifford Eugene O’Dell, age 76, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on December 4, 2024.

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

Death Notice: Ervin Alvin Ortmann, 92, The Dalles

Ervin Alvin Ortmann, age 92, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on December 7, 2024.

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

Death Notice: William A. Sugg, 87, The Dalles

William A. Sugg, age 87, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on December 5, 2024.

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

Obituary: English Teacher Walter Earl Smith, 95, The Dalles

"Better than a thousand days of diligent study is one day with a great teacher."

- Japanese Proverb

Walter Earl Smith

Walter Earl Smith, 95, a resident of The Dalles, passed away on December 6th, 2024.  

Walt was born to Walter and Francis Smith in Myrtle Point, OR in 1929.  He was the youngest of 10 children.  Walt was an excellent student and served as president of the student body.  He graduated from Myrtle Point High School before enrolling at Oregon State University. After two years of studies, Walt transferred to the University of Oregon to enroll in their education program.  There he met his future bride, Beth, in 1950.  

Walt was active in ROTC and while working on his master’s degree, he was called to service following the outbreak of the Korean War.  While in training at Fort Benning, GA, his bride defied her parents and hopped there on a train from California.  Walt and Beth were wed in 1951 and soon after, traveled back to California for more military training.  Walt served in the Army honorably in the Korean War and was awarded the Bronze Star for his acts of bravery.  

After returning home, Walt and Beth immediately returned to the University of Oregon to complete Walt’s graduate program in 1953.  That summer, while working on a dairy farm with his brother, Walt received a call from the superintendent of schools in The Dalles, OR offering him a job.  The young couple packed up and headed to their new home for what they intended to be a five-year stay.  In 1954, Walt and Beth welcomed their first child, and later, three more children.  During this time, Walt’s passion for teaching grew and the family decided to make The Dalles their permanent home.  

Walt went on to teach English at The Dalles High School for 36 years.  He was a quiet man at home and outside of the classroom, but once he stepped foot in that classroom, he came alive.  He was full of charisma, told the best stories, and had an amazing sense of humor.  He and Les Jensen, a fellow English teacher, were always pal-ing around and joking with the students.  While all his children attended The Dalles High School, none of them opted or dared to attend his class.

Walt worked the ticket booths for all three sports seasons at the high school, where he got acquainted in a different setting with his students and their parents.  He was known as the “man at the booth.”  He spent most summers working at Stadelman Fruit processing cherries and making ends meet to support his family.  Walt retired from teaching in 1989.

In his long retirement years, Walt loved traveling with Beth to Reno, making stops at every casino along the way.  He also enjoyed playing golf, although he was never very good at it.  Many locals would also remember his daily morning walks around the neighborhood from his home on Jordan Street.  Walt was also a lifelong Ducks sports fan; you could find him in his recliner watching every game possible.  

Walt was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and extended family, as well as his grandson, Andy Nelson. 

Walt is survived by his devoted wife of 73 years, Beth; children Debbie, Laurie, Kathy, and Gary; grandchildren Melissa and Kayla; and great-grandchildren Trynity, Orion, Jaxson, and Charlotte.  

At Walt’s request, the family will not be holding a service.  

In lieu of flowers, Walt’s family requests memorials be made in his name to the North Wasco County School District Education Foundation.

Obituary: Lillian Clara Brewster, 86, The Dalles

Lillian Clara Brewster, age 86, passed away December 3, 2024, at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge in The Dalles, Ore., with her loving family by her side.

Lillian was born in Los Angeles, California on July 23, 1938 to Frank & Clara Stowers.

Lillian attended and graduated from Baldwin Park High School. Lillian was an only child, thus made her always want many children of her own. She adopted 4 children. First at age 24 and last at age 50! Her love for children lead her into doing daycare out of her home for over 2 decades.
When Lillian wasn’t caring for her children, grandchildren or others’ children, you would find her in the yard, manicuring beautiful roses or enjoying her dogs or cats, who she deeply loved and cherished as well.

Lillian and her husband Don, married in 1976 and moved from California to Oregon in 1979. Hood River was their home for over 25 years. Eventually they downsized and relocated in 2005 to a smaller beautiful home, in The Dalles.
Lillian and Don spent the remainder of their lives living at The Springs, in The Dalles, Oregon.

Lillian’s love for God, her family, children and animals, made a lasting impression on so many and will be greatly cherished and remembered.

Lillian is preceded in death by her Husband of 44 years, Donald and her Father and Mother. She is survived by her 4 children, Robin Brewer, Allyson Struzan, Ted Brewster and Victoria Bustos. 11 Grandchildren, Troy, Paul, Nikki, Donald, Trinity, Wyatt, Brian, TJ, Harper, Avery & Lillian and 5 Great-Grandchildren.
She will be greatly missed.

Death Notice: Walter Earl Smith, 95, The Dalles

Walter Earl Smith, age 95, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on December 6, 2024.

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

Death Notice: Richard Michael Gate, 68, The Dalles

Richard Michael Gate, age 68, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on December 3, 2024.

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

Death Notice: Lillian Clara Brewster, 86, The Dalles

Lillian Clara Brewster, age 86, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on December 3, 2024.

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

Death Notice: Laurence “Dino” Arcuri, 84, The Dalles

Laurence “Dino” Arcuri, age 84, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on November 28, 2024.

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