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Death Notice: Margaret Ellen Dolan, 84, Hood River

Death Notice: Margaret Ellen Dolan, 84, Hood River

Margaret Ellen Dolan passed away May 19th, 2025, at Providence Dethman House in Hood River, Oregon. Margaret was born May 20th, 1940, and was 84 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.

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Obituary: Yuri Lily Hasegawa, 97, Hood River

Obituary: Yuri Lily Hasegawa, 97, Hood River

Yuri Lily Hasegawa, 97, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025.

She was born on March 7, 1928, in Hood River, Oregon, to Masaru and Akimi (Kuranishi) Kawachi. Yuri grew up in the Hood River Valley and attended Oak Grove Grade School. In 1942, during World War II, Yuri and her family were forcibly removed from their home and sent to the Pinedale Assembly Center in California, then to Tule Lake, and later to the Heart Mountain internment camp in Wyoming. After the war, they returned to Hood River in 1945 and Yuri graduated from Hood River High School in 1947.

Soon after, Yuri earned a business degree and began working for the State of Oregon, where she dedicated 30 years of service before retiring.

On May 6, 1956, she married Mark Hasegawa at Centenary Wilbur Methodist Church in Portland. Together, they raised three children and built a life full of love, laughter, and shared adventures.

Yuri was an avid bowler, participating in two leagues- one on Tuesday mornings and another on Thursday evenings. She loved to travel, taking countless trips to Reno with Mark and enjoying frequent visits to Hawaii with her daughters. In earlier years, family trips to the Oregon Coast for clam-digging were among her most treasured memories. Above all, Yuri found her greatest joy in time spent with her husband, children, and grandchildren.

She is survived by her children: Rhonda (Jeff) Kaneshige of Gladstone, OR; Jeff (Jackie) Hasegawa of Hood River, OR; and Janet (Tom) Mellman of Burlingame, CA. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Courtney Hasegawa (Manuel Garcia), Michael Hasegawa, and Gavin Mellman; her sister-in-law Dorothy Kawachi; brother-in-law James Hasegawa; sister-in-law Ella Hasegawa; and many nieces and nephews.

Yuri was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Mark; her parents; her brothers Teruo, Kenji, and Hiro; and her sister, Mary Imai.

She will be remembered for her quiet strength, unwavering devotion to family, and the joyful memories she created with all who knew and loved her.

A Celebration of Life for Yuri was held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 21st, 2025, at Anderson’s Tribute Center (1401 Belmont Ave, Hood River, OR 97031). Graveside Rites will follow at Idlewilde Cemetery. A time of continued sharing will be at the Westside Fire Department Rockford Station.

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.

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Obituary: John Burnam Smith, 69, The Dalles

Obituary: John Burnam Smith, 69, The Dalles

John Burnam Smith passed away peacefully on June 14th, 2025, in The Dalles, Oregon.

John, the son of James F.M. Smith and Joanne Adeline Smith, was born March 25th, 1956, in Portland, Oregon.

The fifth of six children, John attended Coe Primary, Odell Grade, and Mid Valley Junior High School in Hood River County before attending Wahtonka High School in The Dalles, 1970-1974.

Industrious, multi-talented, and blessed with a delightful wit, by age 9, John was already moving sprinklers in the pre-dawn hours before school in the Odell orchard of beloved first foster parents Glen and Joyce Allen. Later, he picked apples, pears, and cherries under the summer sun in orchards from Odell to The Dalles. John endeared himself to foster parents Jim and Agnes Mortenson and family on their Mosier farm, where he rigorously undertook every brand of labor.

He was a skilled tractor driver in the dusty orchards, performed every job available in numerous restaurants, and in 1977 served as a vigilant first responder with the Wasco Rural Fire Protection District. John worked in the supermarket industry for 10 years in The Dalles, Marsing (Idaho), Bend, Oregon City, Portland, and Vancouver. In 1987, John graduated from Trend College, Vancouver, and found his true calling as a professional bookkeeper for 25 years until health issues forced early retirement.

For more than four decades, John was a familiar sight cruising in and around The Dalles in his fully restored, dark blue, 1956 Chevy Pickup.

John believed in the maxim “Work hard, play hard.” A natural athlete, growing up, he enjoyed multiple team sports. A gifted swimmer and diver, his antics at favorite Mosier Creek swimming holes – The Pocket, Sixteen Hole, Upper 16 Hole – were legendary. At 25, he boldly dived off a 55-foot-high basalt precipice into the mighty Columbia River.

John’s two lifelong passions were fishing and golf—the former primarily with Gary Gast, his close friend of more than 50 years. John and his foster brother and lifelong buddy Bob Mortenson were golf partners for decades, and in their 50s, especially pleased to renew their friendly rivalry at China Creek GC in Arlington.

Blessed with an unsurpassed love and respect for the great outdoors and God’s creatures who thrive therein, Mount Hood and Lost Lake were first among equals for John, though he enjoyed the stunning vista views throughout Wasco County, all along with the Deschutes, Klickitat and Hood Rivers and the whole of the Columbia River Gorge.

Along the journey – at home, school, work, and play -- John forged lifelong friendships. His unique manner of speaking, honesty, and sense of humor truly served to uplift and enrich the lives of family and friends.

John was rightfully proud of his beautiful home of 20 years at Foley Lakes. His manicured lawn and expert landscaping were the envy of the neighborhood.

In addition to the Allen and Mortenson families, as a teenager, John resided with foster parents Herman and Jeannie Bagge in Mosier and Jim and Lucille Torgeson in The Dalles.

In 2013, John survived a major heart attack, and his health gradually deteriorated from the effects of emphysema, COPD, and Peripheral Artery Disease. In 2018, he entered hospice and moved into Assisted Living at Flagstone in The Dalles, where he long served as an effective advocate for other residents.

An abiding faith in God long served as his anchor and gave John strength and peace as he endured the loss of his mother and four siblings. And enabled him to face his health challenges head-on with inspiring grace, dignity, and courage.

The family would like to extend thanks to the entire Bristol Hospice team, especially John’s caregiver, Megan Reed, for her compassion and countless acts of kindness. And to Doctors Lisa Pearson and Sonia Schuemann,

multiple nurses, and the dedicated staff at the Mid-Columbia Medical Center. Sincere thanks to foster sister Mary Ann Hay (Mortenson), Gary Gast, and Bob Mortenson for their love and ongoing support of John and family throughout this challenging time.

John was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Joanne Adeline Smith, in 1971, and his father, James F.M. Smith (2005). And by sister Sheila (1956), brother Daniel (2011), sister Patrica (2012), and brother Patrick (2018). He additionally forged a steadfast bond and friendship with his late brother-in-law, Roger Muma (2016).

John is survived by his dear elder sister, Florence Muma of Battle Ground, WA, and his beloved nieces Julie, Jennifer, and Heather, along with thirteen grand and great-grand nieces and nephews, each of whom “Uncle John” was so proud.

Services are planned for 1:00 p.m., Friday, June 27th, 2025, at Anderson’s Tribute Center (1401 Belmont Ave, Hood River, OR 97031).  Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to watch a livestream of John’s service or to leave a note of condolence for the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of John can be made to Providence Hospice of the Gorge c/o Anderson’s Tribute Center.

Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center • Celilo Chapel. 

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Death Notice: Benita Jean McLean, 93, Stevenson

Death Notice: Benita Jean McLean, 93, Stevenson

Benita Jean McLean passed away June 13, 2025, at Rock Grove Assisted Living in Stevenson, Washington. Jean was born December 30, 1931, and was 93 years of age at the time of her 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.

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Remembering Harold & Esther Klein

Remembering you as you dance together in heaven forever as you did on earth.

In loving memory from The family of Harold and Esther Klein:

Remembering you as you dance together in heaven as you did on earth.

Harold and Esther Klein of Portland, Oregon would have celebrated their 78th anniversary today, June 21.

Esther was born in The Dalles and raised in White Salmon, the granddaughter of homesteaders who lived 13 miles east of town in the Wrenthem area. She passed in 2020.

Harold was from Lincoln, Nebraska, and he passed in 2011.

They lived in Northeast Portland their entire married life. Harold and Esther were prolific dancers, spending their weekends ballroom and polka dancing with friends and family.

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Death Notice: Rose Marie Miller, 93, Hood River

Death Notice: Rose Marie Miller, 93, Hood River

Rose Marie Miller passed away June 11, 2025, in Hood River, Oregon. Rose was born June 21, 1931, and was 93 years of age at the time of her 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.

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Death Notice: Virginia “Vir” Kirk, 94, Hood River

Death Notice: Virginia “Vir” Kirk, 94, Hood River

Virginia “Vir” Kirk, formerly of Massachusetts, passed away June 17th, 2025, at Hood River Post Acute Care in Hood River, Oregon. Vir was born June 24th, 1930, in Chesterfield, Massachusetts, and was 94 years of age at the time of passing.   Urn Committal services in Chesterfield, Mass., are pending and will be announced later. 

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.

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Death Notice: William “Bil” R. Secrist, 79, Hood River

Death Notice: William “Bil” R. Secrist, 79, Hood River

William “Bil” R. Secrist passed away June 17th, 2025, at Hood River Post Acute Center in Hood River, Oregon. William was born on December 10th, 1945, and was 79 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.

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Death Notice: Dallas Wayne Dugger, 73, The Dalles

Death Notice: Dallas Wayne Dugger, 73, The Dalles

Dallas Wayne Dugger, age 73, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on June 14, 2025.

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

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Obituary: LaVine Alice Knowles Rathkey, 93, The Dalles

Her early memories were of severe rationing during World War II, the difficulty buying tires or gasoline, and driving without headlights on in the dark. She authored two books “Chalk Dust and Choices” a novel,  and “A Time to Go” which was a history of the Watts family migration from England to Canada. She loved her family, going to coffee, telling stories, watching the pelicans at The Dalles Dam, and gardening.

LaVine Alice Knowles Rathkey with Taffy

LaVine Alice Knowles was born June 17, 1931, in Eugene, Oregon, to Florene Hill Knowles and Eugene Isom Knowles and passed away June 5, 2025, in The Dalles, Oregon. 

In her early years, she lived with her paternal grandparents on their farm in Trent.  She attended school in Trent Grade School where her father, uncle, and three aunts received their primary education.  She graduated from Springfield Union High School in 1949.

Living with her father and stepmother, her early memories were of severe rationing during World War II, the difficulty buying tires or gasoline, and driving without headlights on in the dark. She recalled the family moving closer to her father’s job as an edger at the sawmill, so he could walk to work.  She was also able to walk to school.   

After high school, LaVine moved to Portland, taking a job at Portland General Electric working with the janitorial crew, cleaning the entire sixth floor, but was soon moved to running the elevator, a position she liked much better. Eventually LaVine became a teacher’s aide, a position she truly enjoyed, working with children.

LaVine married John Pelles August 11th, 1951, in Silverton at the Assembly of God Church. They had two daughters: Mary Catherine in 1954 and Judy Ann in 1955.  LaVine and John also welcomed John Sr.’s son from a previous marriage, John Jr.  John Sr. passed away February 1979.

LaVine married Eldred Richard Rathkey December 29, 1979, in Salem, Oregon.  They enjoyed living on the coast at Pacific City, then moving inland to a ten-acre place outside Dallas, Oregon.  They both enjoyed gardening, reading, and grandkids.  A trip to Alaska to visit granddaughter Amy and her family was a highlight of their travels.  They also enjoyed family and especially the annual Rathkey Cousins’ Picnic.  

LaVine loved writing and her writing group in the Dallas / Salem area.  She authored two books “Chalk Dust and Choices” a novel,  and “A Time to Go” which was a history of the Watts family migration from England to Canada. She also wrote a children’s book, “Rupert Goes To Town” with illustrations by her sister-in-law Dorothy Rathkey Schattenkerk.  She loved her family, going to coffee, telling stories, watching the pelicans at The Dalles Dam, and gardening.

LaVine was predeceased by John Pelles, Eldred Richard Rathkey, stepson Raymond Rathkey, stepson John (Jack) Pelles, son in law, John Gozeleski, and daughter Judy Ann Pelles-Thomas.

She leaves behind daughter Mary Pelles Edmunds (Dean), stepdaughter Rita Rathkey (Scott McKay), daughter in law, Carol Rathkey Van Hyning, and grandchildren, Amy Rathkey Gozeleski, Jana Rathkey Murphy (Warren), Andrew McKay (Ariana Sanchez) and Hillary McKay, as well as five great grandchildren and multiple nieces and nephews.  We rejoice in her faith and know she is still enjoying storytelling and gardening. 

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

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Death Notice: Lillian Viola Arends, 78, The Dalles

Death Notice: Lillian Viola Arends, 78, The Dalles

Lillian Viola Arends, age 78, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at a local care facility on June 16, 2025.

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

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Death Notice: Yuri Lily Hasegawa, 97, Hood River

Death Notice: Yuri Lily Hasegawa, 97, Hood River

Yuri Lily Hasegawa passed away on June 14, 2025, in Hood River, Oregon. Yuri was born on March 7, 1928, and was 97 years of age at the time of her passing. A Celebration of life and reception for Yuri will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, June 21st, 2025, at Anderson’s Tribute Center (1401 Belmont Ave, 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.

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Obituary: Steven (Steve) William Cyphers, The Dalles

Obituary: Steven (Steve) William Cyphers, The Dalles

Steven (Steve) William Cyphers passed away peacefully at home in The Dalles, Oregon, on May 28th, 2025. 

Born and raised in The Dalles, Steve also raised his family in the area. He grew up helping his father in the orchards, and his mother at her cafe. Steve had a passion for God, family, and adventure. He worked as a conductor for the Union Pacific Railroad, and later in life received his Masters of Counseling from George Fox University. Still, his greatest joy and accomplishment was his family.

Steve is survived by his son John Cyphers, granddaughters Chamille and Margaux of Beaverton. Son James Cyphers, grandson Weslee Cyphers, wife Hannah, and great-grandchildren Norah Lou and Oliver, granddaughter Emily Mortenson, husband Jim, and great-grandchildren Emmitt and Hazel, all of The Dalles. Daughter Geneva Snow, grandson Caleb of North Bonneville, granddaughter Caitlan Snow, husband Izaac, and great-grandsons Eli, Mason, and Beckham of Minnesota. Son Josh Cyphers, wife Cathy, and grandsons Hayden (University of Idaho) and Tucker of Beaverton. Goddaughter Amy Jordon of Monmouth. Dear friend Terrie Keenum of The Dalles. Many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and “adopted” kids. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sharon Cyphers, parents Grant and Geneva Cyphers, and brother, David Cyphers.

There will be a Celebration of Life at the Mid-Columbia Church of Christ in Dallesport, Washington, on Friday, June 27th at 1:00 p.m. A private, family burial will be held at Odd Fellows Cemetery on Cherry Heights Road earlier that day.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff of The Springs at Mill Creek for their dedicated care and love for Steve, Mid-Columbia Church of Christ for their continued support, Providence Hospice for their gentle care, and to Anderson's Tribute Center, who is handling the arrangements.

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Death Notice: Charles Frederick Williams, 78, Trout Lake

Death Notice: Charles Frederick Williams, 78, Trout Lake

Charles Frederick Williams passed away June 5, 2025, at home in Trout Lake, Washington. Charles was born August 23, 1946, and was 78 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. 

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Death Notice: Nancy Jo Hyder, 74, The Dalles

Death Notice: Nancy Jo Hyder, 74, The Dalles

Nancy Jo Hyder, age 74, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on June 10, 2025.

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

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Obituary: Kenneth Arlen Farner, 93, The Dalles

Ken earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Idaho and served honorably in the Army. His career in agriculture led him to work with Farm Credit in multiple locations: Caldwell, Idaho; Great Falls, Montana; Oregon City and The Dalles, Oregon. He worked for Columbia bank from 1988 through 1996. He enjoyed those eight years and was thrilled when the bank chose to create a bank credit card that had the town’s picture with Mt Hood in the background. He continued to use the card!

By Dan Farner, Mona Harwood, Nancy Farner & Jim Farner

Kenneth Arlen Farner peacefully went to be with our Lord on Saturday, June 7th, 2025, surrounded by his loving children during his final days.

Ken lived a remarkable life marked by deep community involvement, business leadership, ministry dedication, unwavering devotion to his wife, and steadfast support of his children and grandchildren. His trust and dependence on God anchored every aspect of his life.

Those who knew him well will also remember his enthusiasm for board games and his love of discussing current events.

Born on October 22, 1931, on his grandparents’ homestead in Melba, Idaho, Ken was raised by his parents, Virgil and Mabel Farner, who were respected ranchers and farmers in the Boise valley. When World War II began, ten-year-old Ken stepped up to work full-time alongside his parents, demonstrating the strong work ethic that would define his character. He grew up in the agricultural communities of Melba and Lakeview with his sister Virginia and brother Tom.

Ken earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Idaho and served honorably in the Army. His career in agriculture led him to work with Farm Credit in multiple locations: Caldwell, Idaho; Great Falls, Montana; Oregon City and The Dalles, Oregon. He worked for Columbia bank from 1988 through 1996. He enjoyed those eight years and was thrilled when the bank chose to create a bank credit card that had the town’s picture with Mt Hood in the background. He continued to use the card!

On August 28, 1955, Ken married Phyllis Paulson in Caldwell, Idaho. Together, they raised four children—Ramona, Nancy, Dan, and Jim—while actively participating in farming, community service, and church activities. They enjoyed connections with Calvary Baptist, Gateway and the Quakers. He especially enjoyed leading and being involved in Bible Studies & was personally involved with Intervarsity as a college student and throughout his adult life. He served the community through Hope International, World Affairs Council, TD Government of Affairs, Rotary, Library Foundation, Port of the Dalles, Wasco County Democrats and was on the founding team of The Dalles Habitat for Humanity.

He & Phyllis took over hospital supplies to Africa for the Project Mercy from the Rotary Club. He served at theTashkent Institute of Agricultural Mechanism & Irrigation with seminars on agricultural, water rights and financial topics six different times from 1998-2005. He also worked with USA AID in Ukraine (when it was part of the Soviet Union) & Ethiopia.

Ken’s wife, children, and extended family feel blessed and deeply grateful for the time they shared with him. He is survived by his four children: Ramona Harwood, Nancy Farner, Dan and Sheron Farner, and Jim and Heidi Farner; eleven grandchildren: Corby Harwood, Larissa Poppen, Judah Harwood, Kenny Harwood, Michaela (Farner) Dutscheck, Zach Farner, Anna Farner, Adon Farner, Wesley Farner, Josh Farner, and Rachel (Farner) Watt; and seven great-grandchildren: Zoe Poppen, Elsa Harwood, Isaiah Poppen, Christopher Harwood, Isabelle Poppen, Sara Farner, and Jack Farner, with another great-grandchild expected.

Ken’s life exemplified service, faith, and love. His legacy will continue through the many lives he touched and the family who will carry forward his values of generosity, community involvement, and unwavering faith.

Friday, June 27th from 2-6 pm: Viewing at Spencer, Libby & Powell Funeral Home, 1100 Kelly Avenue, The Dalles.

Saturday, June 28th: Celebration of Life at 1 pm at Gateway Church 1111 Dry Hollow Rd., The Dalles.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations towards The Dalles Habitat for Humanity at 111 E 5th St, TD or O.S.H.U. Foundation Fund: O.S.H.U. Brain Institute, P.O. box 29017 Portland, OR 97296.





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Obituary: Shyrl Noreen Hand, 74, The Dalles

Obituary: Shyrl Noreen Hand, 74, The Dalles

Shyrl Noreen Hand of Centerville, Washington, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025, at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge in The Dalles, Oregon. She was 74 years old.

Noreen was born on May 15, 1951, in Redding, California, to Dewey Franklin and Nora Irene (Richardson) Robirds. A dedicated and spirited entrepreneur, Noreen poured her heart into each of her ventures—including a floral business, a janitorial company, and most recently, her own beauty salon. She was a woman of energy, faith, and warmth who touched many lives through both her work and her friendships.

Noreen found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved being outdoors—jet skiing, catfishing, and, most of all, spending cherished time with her family. Her unwavering faith as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses was a cornerstone of her life, offering strength and purpose throughout the years.   Noreen was passionate about her miniature schnauzers. She started “Premier Miniature Schnauzers” and raised and sold her puppies for over 30 years.

She is survived by her loving husband, George Hutter of Centerville, WA; her son, Rickey Franklin Turner of Carson, WA; her daughter, Ashlea Dawn Lazelle and son-in-law John Michel Lazelle of Centerville, WA; fifteen grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and her sister, Mary Evalyn Willis of San Marcos, CA.

Noreen was preceded in death by her first husband, Harley Eugene Hands (2008); her daughter, Rachelle Turner; her sons, Reggie Lynn Turner and Harley Wendel Turner; and her siblings Irene, Annie, Gladys, and James.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 333 Nesbitt Street, Goldendale, WA.

Arrangements are under the care of Anderson’s Tribute Center • Celilo Chapel, 204 E. 4th Street, The Dalles, Oregon. Please visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to share memories or offer condolences to the family.

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Death Notice: Kenneth Arlen Farner, 93, The Dalles

Death Notice: Kenneth Arlen Farner, 93, The Dalles

Kenneth Arlen Farner, age 93, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on June 7, 2025. Viewings will be held at Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home on June 27, 2025, from 2-6 PM and June 28, 2025, from 8-11 AM, Celebration of Life, June 28, 2025, 1 PM at Gateway Church 1111 Dry Hollow Rd, The Dalles, Graveside Service, 3 PM at Odd Fellows Cemetery on Cherry Heights Rd.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations towards The Dalles Habitat for Humanity at 111 E 5th St, The Dalles, OR 97058 or O.S.H.U. Foundation Fund: O.S.H.U. Brain Institute, P.O. box 29017 Portland, OR 97296. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

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Death Notice: LaVine Alice Rathkey, 93, The Dalles

Death Notice: LaVine Alice Rathkey, 93, The Dalles

LaVine Alice Rathkey, age 93, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at The Springs at Mill Creek on June 5, 2025. A Graveside Service at Odd Fellows Cemetery on Cherry Heights Rd will be held on July 12, 10:30 AM.

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

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Obituary: Elsie Mae Walker, 95, The Dalles

Obituary: Elsie Mae Walker, 95, The Dalles

Elsie Mae Walker of The Dalles passed away June 5th, 2025, at the Oregon Veterans Home. She was 95.

Elsie was born January 4th, 1930, in Mott, North Dakota, daughter of T. Elmer and Lillian Hawn. In 1948, she graduated from Eureka High School in California. While in Eureka, she met Eldon Walker. They were married for over 40 years and together raised four children: Jerri Walker DePriest, Peggy Walker (Richards), Tom Walker, and Jeanne Walker.

Elsie lived for her four children, ten grandchildren, and fourteen great-grandchildren and was a model of kindness and compassion throughout her life. Accordingly, she supported and encouraged many, including her granddaughters. This encouragement came from experience, wisdom, strength, and dreams that reach beyond her time.

She was proud of her career as a rural mail carrier in Dufur and thoroughly loved the years spent and friendships made in the Dufur community. Eastern Star was an important purpose for Elsie, and she served as Worthy Matron. She also greatly appreciated her birthday club, the Red Hat Society, Garden Club, tours and travels, her gym membership, and most of all the many dear friends associated with these groups. In fact, it is the relationships built with those around her that lie at the heart of Elsie’s long life.

Elsie was preceded in death by her husband, Eldon, her daughter and son-in-law, Jerri and Harold DePriest, and her three sisters. She is survived by her daughter Peggy Walker and her husband Bruce Richards, her son Tom Walker and his wife Georgie, her daughter Jeanne Walker, and all of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

No memorial service is planned, other than an immediate family gathering to celebrate Elsie’s life. If inclined, donations may be made to the Jerri Walker DePriest Memorial Endowment Fund at Dufur Schools.

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

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