Death Notice: Richard “Rick” Baggenstos, 75, The Dalles

Richard “Rick” Baggenstos passed away on August 3, 2026 at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge in The Dalles, Oregon.   Rick was born on September 9, 1950 and was 75 at the time of passing.  

Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center • Celilo Chapel 204 E. 4th Street, The Dalles, Oregon 97058.  Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.

Death Notice: Rose Marie Schwinge, 86 Underwood

Rose Marie Schwinge passed away on August 5th, 2026, in Underwood, Washington. Rose was born on May 11th, 1940, and was 86 years of age at the time of passing.

Services are under the guidance of Gardner Funeral Home. Visit www.GardnerFH.com to share a story or leave a note for the family.      

Obituary: Della Kathleen "Kathy" Hines, 91, Hood River

Della Kathleen "Kathy" Hines, 91, of Hood River, Oregon, passed away on July 29, 2026 in Hood River, Oregon.

Kathy was born on July 13, 1935, in Fort Worth, Texas, to George and Jessie Guyette. Her family later moved to California and settled in San Leandro. She graduated from San Leandro High School in 1953. Kathy loved music from an early age, studied voice, sang in school and church programs, and was an active member of Job's Daughters.

Kathy married Carl Dutra in 1954, and they had two daughters, Kim and Sabrina. Following their divorce, Kathy moved to Concord, California, with her daughters and worked for Kaiser. She later married Lewis Edward "Ed" Hines in 1962, and they had a daughter, Michelle.

After Ed's death in 1997, Kathy moved to Portland, Oregon, to be near Michelle and her family. They later moved to Hood River in 2003.

In March 2004, Kathy joined the Delta Kappa chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha. She generously donated her time to philanthropic work and fundraising, with a special commitment to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and local scholarships. She served as Home Tour Chair for several years, worked on many committees, and most recently served as the chapter's chaplain.

Family, friendship, and faith were central to Kathy's life. In her diary, she wrote about the importance of being able to talk openly with her children and grandchildren and about her desire for a closer walk with God. She enjoyed singing, traveling, spending time with family, and celebrating the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her great-grandchildren affectionately called her "GG."

Kathy is survived by her three daughters: Kim Pickard and her husband, Jim; Sabrina Dutra; and Michelle Nardone and her husband, Joe. She is also survived by five grandchildren: Matt Martin and his wife, Nicole; Sabrina Greene; Randy and his wife, Myassa; Joshua; and Melissa; and four great-grandchildren: Mason, Myles, Max, and Dylan.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ed Hines, her brother, Milton Truax, and her parents, George and Jessie Guyette.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or to a local scholarship program in Kathy's memory.

Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson’s Tribute Center, 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com

Death Notice: Rocky Dean Jones, 71, The Dalles

Rocky Dean Jones, age 71, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge on August 2, 2026.

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

Death Notice: Verona Gail Lang, 86, The Dalles

Verona Gail Lang, age 86, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge on July 31, 2026.

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

Death Notice: Matthew David Edley, 44, The Dalles

Matthew David Edley, age 44, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on July 31, 2026.

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

Obituary: Sharon Lee Black, 77, The Dalles

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Sharon Lee Black, who passed away on July 27, 2026. To us, she was simply the best mom in the world.

Words will never fully express the depth of the loss we feel, but they also cannot capture how incredibly blessed we were to have her. Sharon gave her love freely and completely. Every lesson she taught, every laugh she shared, every hug she gave, and every sacrifice she made shaped the lives of those fortunate enough to know her. Her unwavering love remained constant until her very last day.

Sharon was born on February 25, 1949, and throughout her life became known for her incredible generosity, unwavering kindness, and selfless heart. She was the kind of person who never said no when someone needed help. Her home was always open, her table always had room for one more, and no one ever left empty-handed. Whether it was a warm meal, fresh baked treats, a cup of coffee, a thoughtful gift, or even a tube of lip gloss tucked into someone's hand, she found joy in making others feel loved. Giving wasn't something she did—it was simply who she was.

On April 18, 1975, Sharon married Lawrence Fred Black Jr. in Cannon Beach, Oregon. While life took them on different paths over the years, they remained connected by the family they created together and the love they shared for their children. Following Lawrence's passing, Sharon carried his memory with her, and their bond remained an important part of her story. Together, they were blessed with six children, who became the greatest joy and purpose of her life.

Sharon was a devoted mother to her six children: Charissa, Lawrence, Andrew, Davin, Sharyl, and Alvin, and lovingly welcomed daughter-in-law Tiffany and son-in-law Terry into her family. Nothing brought her greater pride than the family she loved so deeply. She adored her 13 grandchildren—Alexia, Ariana, Lilyana, Samantha, Alejandra, Briana, Alvin Jr., Sterling, Rylee, Taevin, Kobe, Serenity, and Casey—who were the light of her life. Each one held a special place in her heart, and she cherished every moment she spent with them. They will forever carry with them the unconditional love, encouragement, warmth, and kindness that only Grandma could give.

She is also lovingly remembered by her siblings: Melroy "Bud" Brace, Claire "Pet" Brace, Pearl "Sissie" Munsen, and Clarence "Sonny" Brace.

For nearly 30 years, Sharon dedicated her career to caring for children. She worked with students at the high school before finding her true calling at Great and Small Childcare, where she lovingly cared for infants through her patient hands and nurturing heart. To the families whose children were blessed to be in her care, she became much more than a childcare provider—she became another mom. Countless families remember Sharon's gentle spirit, comforting embrace, encouraging words, and the genuine love she poured into every child entrusted to her.

No matter where she went, it seemed someone would smile and call out, "Miss Sharon!" They remembered her from the childcare center and would excitedly tell her she had cared for them or their children years before. Those moments were a beautiful testament to the lasting impact she made. She helped raise generations of children, and many grew up remembering her as someone who made them feel safe, valued, and deeply loved. The love she gave so freely was returned many times over, and her legacy lives on in the hearts of the countless children and families she touched.

Sharon found happiness in life's simple pleasures. She loved tending to her garden, baking for family and friends, and creating a home where everyone felt welcome. She found joy in sharing what she had, whether it was a delicious dessert, flowers from her garden, or simply a place where people knew they belonged.

This past year brought an unexpected source of comfort and companionship when she welcomed her little dog, Elvis, into her heart after the loss of her beloved Lola. Elvis quickly became her constant companion and brought her endless smiles.

To know Sharon was to experience unconditional love. She had an extraordinary gift for making people feel seen, welcomed, and valued. Family gatherings were her favorite place to be, and she delighted in bringing everyone together to celebrate life's milestones, holidays, birthdays, and simple Sunday afternoons. Her home wasn't just a house—it was the heart of our family. It was where memories were made, traditions were born, laughter echoed through every room, and everyone knew they were welcome.

Her legacy is not measured by the things she owned, but by the countless lives she touched through her compassion, generosity, and endless love. Whether you knew her as Mom, Grandma, Sister, Aunt, friend, coworker, or as the woman who lovingly cared for your child, you knew someone whose greatest joy was making others feel loved.

Although our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing that her love lives on—in every family gathering, every act of kindness, every recipe passed down, every flower that blooms, every child who still remembers "Miss Sharon," and in each of us who were blessed enough to know her.

We will miss her more than words can ever say, but we are forever grateful for every moment we shared. We will honor her by striving to love others the way she loved us—with open hearts, open doors, and boundless generosity.

Until we meet again, Mom, thank you for every hug, every sacrifice, every lesson, every laugh, and every memory. Thank you for teaching us what unconditional love looks like and for showing us, every day, how to put others before ourselves. We were truly blessed to have you, and your love will remain with us forever.

You will always and forever be in our hearts. Forever our Mom. Forever our Grandma. Forever our Miss Sharon.

Service Information

Private Viewing for Close Friends & Family

Those who were close to Sharon and would like the opportunity to come and say goodbye are warmly welcome.

Friday, August 7, 2026

Drop in anytime during those hours at Spencer, Libby & Powell Funeral Home

1100 Kelly Ave. The Dalles, OR 97058

Celebration of Sharon's Life

Saturday, August 8, 2026

Brace Family Cabin

3820 Sandlin Rd.

The Dalles, OR 97058

Family and friends are invited to join us as we come together to remember Sharon, share memories, and celebrate a life filled with love, generosity, family, and kindness.

Obituary: Robert “Bobby” Dale Lincoln, 87, Hood River

Robert “Bobby” Dale Lincoln passed away on July 24, 2026, at home with his loving family in Hood River, Oregon.   Bobby was born on June 7, 1939, to Oscar and Agnes Lincoln and was the youngest of seven siblings.  Bobby was 87 at the time of passing.

He was one of the rare few born, raised, lived, retired, and passed right here in Hood River, Oregon. He lived a quiet, deeply happy life, finding contentment in the familiar routines of his hometown.

His life was built on a foundation of hard work and service, including his military service in Company B of the 41st Signal Brigade from 1962 to 1968. Bobby and Kay Jones married November 26, 1966, at the barber shop in Stevenson, WA.  From 1960 to 2000, he worked at the local telephone company, stubbornly outlasting five or six corporate name changes—from Oregon Washington Telco, United Telephone, all the way to Sprint—while staying a fixture of stability through the decades. Through the years, he also weathered whatever nature threw his way, including the historic storm of '69 and the '96 floods right here in the valley.

Away from work, his greatest joys were found outdoors. He was an avid gardener and a passionate fisherman. He also loved a grand adventure, whether that meant treks to Alaska, train rides across Canada, or a month-long retirement trip to Australia. More than anything, his heart belonged to his wife, Kay. Together, they built a remarkable life, missing their 60th wedding anniversary by just 4 months, a lifetime of partnership and quiet devotion.

He is survived by Kay, his sons Kert and Kevin, several nieces, nephews, extended family, and the steady line of loyal dogs who filled their home through the years.  Bobby and Kay enjoyed delivering Meals on Wheels for 10 years.  Please, in lieu of flowers, we encourage you to support them at hrvac.org. 

A celebration of life for Bob will be held at 12:00 p.m., Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Anderson’s Tribute Center.

Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson’s Tribute Center, 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com.

Celebration of Life for Lucy ‘Joy’ O’Brien, 90, Hood River moved to Vancouver, Wash.

The family of Lucy Olive "Joy" O'Brien has changed the location of her celebration of life because of wildfire smoke, according to Anderson's Tribute Center.

The service will still be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, but will now take place at the Best Western Premier, 1500 S.E. 167th Ave., Vancouver, Washington, rather than the previously announced location.

O'Brien died July 2, 2026, in Vancouver, Washington, at the age of 90.

Lucy Olive “Joy” O’Brien passed peacefully with family by her side on Thursday July 2nd, 2026, in Vancouver Washington at the age of 90 years.  

Joy was delivered by her grandmother Lucy Pugh in Chataqua, Kansas on September 2nd, 1935. Her parents were James M Carter and Cora H Pugh Carter.
In the early 1940’s the family moved to the Hood River Valley where Joy grew up attending Barrett Elementary School and Wy’East High School.
In 1953 she met and married Robert “Bob” Walls and they made their home locally where Joy worked in the Hood River Valley packing industry, as a waitress, and a homemaker. After they divorced in 1959, Joy moved to California where she met Harold “Pat” O’Brien and they were married in 1961.

Joy and Pat moved back to Hood River Valley and started a dairy farm in Parkdale, where Joy was also a school bus driver. Around 1973 Joy and Pat relocated to Vale Oregon to continue dairy farming.  Around 1979 Joy became single again and moved to Eugene Oregon and then lived temporarily in Nebraska. Eventually she moved to California to be near family and become a bakery hostess until she retired and settled in Salome, Az.
After she retired, she traveled throughout the US visiting Graceland, family, and friends in various states. She loved Elvis Presley and collecting things about Elvis’s career.
Joy is survived by her daughter Rosetta Walls, sons Tony (Kathy) Walls and Rickey (Desiree) O’Brien. She has 13 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her son Patrick Jr. O’Brien, her parents, and brothers Carl Carter, Cecil Carter, Con Carter and sister Jewel Davidson.

A Celebration of Life is planned for 1pm, August 7th, 2026 at the Best Western Premier in Vancouver, Washington (1500 SE 167th Avenue).
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Healthcare for Justice at https://healthcareforjustice.org/.  This organization was very special to Joy because it was founded by her grandson Dr. Anthony Walls and his wife Emily.
Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson’s Tribute Center, 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com

Obituary: Donzella Schlager, 99, The Dalles

Donzella Schlager passed away on July 27, 2026, at The Springs in The Dalles, Oregon. Donzella was born the oldest of three children to Thomas J Wilson and Viola E Granger on October 1, 1926, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska.

Donzella was raised in Lingle, Wyoming, on a sheep farm. She helped with farm chores, riding horses and herding sheep in the hills. During school, she was active with 4-H, sports, music, and led the marching band. Her band was selected to play at the 1943 Cheyenne Frontier Days. Donzella graduated from Lingle High School in 1944. She married Ruben Schlager on July 22, 1944, and started her family while helping with the sugar beet farm.

After selling the farm, Donzella and Ruben moved to Oregon. Donzella was adventurous and followed Ruben wherever he needed to go for work. They settled in The Dalles, Oregon, in 1963. Donzella was well known in the community and worked as a Census gatherer for Wasco County and as an administrative assistant for both the Red Cross and United Way. Her final job was clerk at JCPenney.

Donzella was a woman who loved God and was a devoted member of First Christian Church where she mentored young Christians, taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. She sang in many choirs and served in both visible ways and behind the scenes at church.

Donzella was a fine quilter and demonstrated techniques at the Discovery Center for years. She was an excellent seamstress and knitter. She belonged to the Democratic Women’s Organization and the Toastmistress Club. She was always proud that she and Ruben attended Jimmy Carter’s inauguration and ball in Washington, D.C. Donzella was a Girl Scout and Boy Scout leader. She loved to read and taught her children a love of reading. She enjoyed writing, especially genealogy and poetry. Donzella loved traveling and visiting her children.

Donzella loved to dance with her husband Ruben. They were members of the Eagles and danced there often. While visiting family in Idaho, she danced withLawrence Welk and said he was a “talented” dancer. In retirement, Donzella and Ruben built a home in a small orchard and sold cherries, apricots, and fresh produce.

Donzella is survived by her sister, Edith B Saunders; her six children: Gabriella Sue (Rick), Lee Ann, James, Beth (Greg), Russell (Angela), and David (Cindy). A special son, Dennis Morgan (Shannon), and Daughter-in- Law Connie. She has 11 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Ruben, her parents, brother Tom Wilson, and many brothers and sisters-in-law and nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held Monday, August 10, 2026, at 11:00 AM at First Christian Church in The Dalles. Memorial contributions may be sent to First Christian Church, 909 Court Street, The Dalles, OR 97058, or Bristol Hospice, 407 Portway Ave. Suite 201, Hood River, OR 97031.

Death Notice: Alan Blair, 80, Hood River

Alan Blair passed away on July 26, 2026, at Trustwell Living at Parkhurst in Hood River, Oregon.   Alan was born on February 12, 1946, and was 80 at the time of passing.

Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson’s Tribute Center, 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com. 

Death Notice: Della “Kathy” Hines, 91, Hood River

Della “Kathy” Hines passed away July 29, 2026, at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital in Hood River, Oregon.   Kathy was born on July 13, 1935, and was 91 at the time of passing.

Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson’s Tribute Center, 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com

Obituary: Reece Andrew Miller, 26, Goldendale

Reece Andrew Miller passed away on June 10. 2026, in The Dalles, Oregon, at the age of 26. He was born on May 6, 2000, in Goldendale, Washington, to Beth Scherf and Brett Miller.

Reece was a beautiful young man who was full of life. He had a smile that could light up any room and a spirit that drew people to him. He was naturally happy, loyal, spontaneous, and an absolute joy to be around. Gifted with a quick wit, Reece could make anyone laugh. No matter the situation, he always had something funny to say, and his laughter was contagious.

Music was one of Reece’s greatest passions, and it was rare to find him without a favorite song playing. Whether he was discovering new artists or sharing his favorites with others, music was an important part of who he was. He also had an eye for fashion and loved looking “fresh” in his fits.

Above all, Reece deeply loved his family and friends. He would do anything he could to help those he cared about and treasured every moment spent with them. He often encouraged his family to be all they could be, the best versions of themselves!

He is survived by his father, Brett Miller; his mother, Beth Scherf; his siblings, Cierra (Kristian) Lucas, Ronnie Scherf, Alex Scherf, MoniQue (Austin) Didier; his grandma, Cecile Miller, along with his extended family including aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Our hearts are shattered by the unexpected loss of Reece. There are no words that can fully capture who he was to us or the depth of this pain. He was deeply loved by so many, and his absence leaves a space that can never be filled. Though his time was far too short, the love he gave, the time we shared, and the memories we made will forever and always be a part of us.

Forever loved, forever missed, forever our Reece.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

Death Notice: Sharon Norris, 81, The Dalles

Sharon Norris, age 81, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at a local care facility on July 24, 2026.

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

Obituary: Robert Richard "Bob" Barrett, 84, The Dalles

Robert Richard "Bob" Barrett

July 12, 1942 – July 21, 2026

Robert Richard "Bob" Barrett, 84, of The Dalles, Oregon, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on July 21, 2026, with the hope and promise of eternal life through Him.

Bob was born on July 12, 1942, in The Dalles, Oregon, to James and Henrietta Barrett. He spent his childhood on the family cherry orchard on Mill Creek, where he worked alongside his father, brother Randy, Uncle Dave, and at his Uncle Sam's Muirhead Canning Company. Those early years instilled in him a lifelong appreciation for hard work, family, and the rewards of caring for the land.

During his school years, Bob's family relocated to Portland, Oregon, but returned to The Dalles each harvest season, where Bob worked alongside his family on the orchard and at the cannery. He graduated from Cleveland High School in Portland in 1960 before attending Oregon State University, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Agriculture in 1964.

Bob devoted his professional life to agriculture, holding positions with the Wasco County Weed Department, Clairmont Fruit Company, and the Oregon Department of Agriculture in Klamath Falls before retiring in 2012.

Following retirement, Bob returned to The Dalles to be closer to his family, the community he loved, and the place where his life's journey began.

Bob found great joy in caring for others. Family gatherings were never complete without one of his signature dishes or homemade desserts, which he proudly prepared and brought to share with those he loved. He was always eager to try a new recipe, hoping it would become the next family favorite. Whether tending his garden, improving his yard, lending a helping hand, or quietly putting the needs of others before his own, Bob lived a life marked by generosity, humility, and an instinct to put others first. He recently completed a beautiful addition to his yard, a reflection of the pride and joy he found in creating beauty around his home.

Above all else, Bob's greatest treasure was his faith in Jesus Christ. His relationship with the Lord shaped the way he lived, loved, and treated others. He found peace and unwavering confidence in God's promises and looked forward with joyful anticipation to being reunited in Heaven with those who had gone before him. Bob often encouraged family and friends to place their trust in God, sincerely hoping they too would experience the gift of eternal life so they could one day be together again in Heaven. His steadfast faith was an inspiration to those who knew him and remains one of the greatest legacies he leaves behind.

Bob is lovingly remembered by his son, Jeff Barrett and wife Debbie; son-in-law, Gino Feriante; brother, Randy Barrett (Dawn); sister, Barbara Cornilles; grandchildren, Amanda (Chris) Feriante, Justin (Amy) Feriante, Audrey (Christian) Feriante, Nick (Marissa) Barrett, Tyler (Reagan) Barrett, and Chad (Alli) Barrett; great-grandchildren, Matthew Barrett, Anna Barrett, Nora Barrett, Maxine Barrett, Lennon Williams, Christian Williams, with another great-grandchild expected in November 2026; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, James and Henrietta Barrett; his beloved daughter, Tamera Feriante; his sister, Kris Cunningham; brother-in-law, Lane Cunningham; and brother-in-law, Edwin Cornelius.

A graveside service will be held at The Dalles IOOF Cemetery on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.

Though Bob's earthly journey has ended, his family rejoices in knowing he has been welcomed into his heavenly home. His legacy of unwavering faith, hard work, humility, generosity, and love for his family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Bob's family finds comfort in knowing that he has heard the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant," and now rests in the presence of his Savior.

"Well done, good and faithful servant! ... Enter into the joy of your Lord." — Matthew 25:23

a

Death Notice: Angel Valentino Velasquez Jr., 58, Hood River

Angel Valentino Velasquez Jr. passed away July 18, 2026, at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital in Hood River, Oregon.   Angel was born May 7, 1968 and was 58 at the time of passing.

Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson’s Tribute Center, 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com

Obituary: Bonnie Jean Stratton, 94, The Dalles

Bonnie Jean Stratton

A wonderful mother, loving spouse and one with many friends around the world. Bonnie passed away recently at home on July 16, 2026. She had been struggling with a health issue for many years and is now in a place where she can relax and enjoy the comfort of family and friends that passed before her.

Bonnie was born in Wichita, Kansas in 1932 to her loving parents Denny and Edna. Her father worked in the aircraft industry and along with her older brother Harlan, their family moved to various locations throughout the western USA during her youth.

Bonnie attended and graduated from High School in Long Beach, California. She had a creative mind and while in school, she earned her varsity letter in Theater Costume Design. After graduating Bonnie met the love of her life, Theodore (Ted) Stratton. Bonnie was a homemaker raising their three children, Teddy, Deborah and Shawn. When the youngest child was old enough, Bonnie took a part time job to supplement their household income.

When Ted's work for the space industry ended in 1969, and with limited opportunity in the area, Bonnie, Ted and their two youngest children, Deborah and Shawn moved to Colorado. In Colorado, Bonnie maintained her home crafting abilities making clothing, sweaters, jackets, curtains and many more unique projects. Because times were financially difficult, Bonnie returned to part time work and continued to benefit the family.

In the mid 1970's, Ted was offered a job in Puerto Rico for an oil & gas company. Bonnie happily began the process of preparing to move again, something that Bonnie was very good at. In early 1975, Bonnie, Ted and Shawn their youngest child, flew off to Puerto Rico. Bonnie relished in the tropical environment and her creativity was inspiring. Later that year, Ted was offered another opportunity with the same company he was currently working for. This other offer meant moving again only this time to Alaska.

So in October of 1975 Bonnie and Shawn flew up to Alaska with a loving pug named Cinder. Bonnie again thrived in the new environment. She loved living in an area where the ladies all got together doing various and creative new things. Bonnie stayed very busy continuing with her crafting projects, and she also was able have time to begin painting and to learn the new craft of Japanese Bunka.

When the project in Alaska wound down, Bonnie, Ted and Shawn, along with two dogs, then headed south to Texas where Bonnie and Shawn took up residence while Ted was overseas working in the Middle East. Bonnie stayed busy supporting Shawn while he was in high school, and she continued to learn, and later become a certified master of the craft of Japanese Bunka.

In about 1980, Ted accepted a job doing work for a company in Denver and so Bonnie coordinated the move north. She looked forward to the move because it would place her closer to her daughter Deborah who was living with her family in the area. Bonnie and Ted bought a home in the Denver region and Bonnie enjoyed being near her new grandchildren and staying busy with her Bunka projects as well as many other household improvement and craft projects. Also during this time, Bonnie and Ted took trips to Hawaii, Australia, Fiji and Canada.

In the late 1980's Ted's work took him and Bonnie back to California. During this time Bonnie began making custom cat carry bags when her daughter indicated that she needed a carry bag for her new cat that she was taking to cat shows. It wasn't long before Bonnie's cat bags became popular and over the next few years, she made and sold over a hundred bags. After a couple of years, when Bonnie and Ted had again moved, this time to home on a lake in Atascocita, Texas, Bonnie got interested in, and began showing Long Haired Persian Cats herself. She later had a cat that she took to the National CFA finals in St. Louis, where the cat was awarded Grand Champion status.

In 1999, when Bonnie and Ted were enjoying their senior years, Ted contracted and was diagnosed with advanced cancer. Sadly, Ted passed away later that year in November. Fortunately Bonnie had the support of her three children and was able to cope with the sadness. Shawn left his home in Alaska and moved down to Texas where he supported Bonnie in her being able to relax and decide what her future would be like. During this time she also had the support of her good friends in Texas and elsewhere in the country.

In 2000, Bonnie decided that she would like to be closer to her daughter and her grand children, and so with Shawn's support, she sold her home in Texas and moved to Reno, Nevada. Bonnie, being a person who always thrived when facing a new adventure really enjoyed being in Reno. She purchased a home there and met a neighbor, Judy who became a very good friend and introduced Bonnie to the art of Egg Carving. During this time she also became involved in the Reno Newcomers Club and took trips to Russia and Europe.

A few years later when Bonnie's good friend moved away and her daughter and husband had moved north to the Seattle area, and her granddaughters, who were now adults had moved away, Bonnie decided to move again, up to a place around where her brother, Harlan was now living. This place would also allow her to be closer to her daughter. Along with Shawn's help, Bonnie made another move up to The Dalles. A move that turned out to be to a location where she resided the longest.

Bonnie enjoyed being in The Dalles and made good friends here. She was asked to help out at The Dalles Art Center, a task that she really enjoyed. It allowed her to become involved with the art community, but also to begin practicing her art painting. During this period, she also continued to make hand carved egg art pieces, as well as learning how to felt yarn and make clothing and handbags, and she stayed busy with many of the creative home craft items that she always excelled at doing. Bonnie also took several trips internationally during this time to the Caribbean, Canada, Italy, Germany and England.

As Bonnie became affected by her mental illness, she passionately wanted to continue with making and creating things. Although she could perform many of the basic tasks as if on auto pilot, it became more and more difficult for her to fulfill her desires.

Bonnie lived a very good and adventuresome life. As she declined, Bonnie spent more and more of her time at home where on July 16, 2026, she passed away in relative peace.

Bonnie is survived by her eldest son, Ted, daughter Deborah, and youngest son, Shawn. They all three, miss her greatly.

Bonnie will be interred with her loving husband Ted, in a location that they chose together.

In memory of Bonnie, please feel free to visit The Dalles Art Center and donate to their support of maintaining the creativity of the mind, body and spirit.

Death Notice: Michelle D Pollentier, 55, Arlington, OR

Michelle D Pollentier, age 55, a resident of Arlington, OR, passed away at a local care facility on July 15, 2026.

A Celebration of Life will be held August 15, 2026, 1:00 PM at the Arlington Park.

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

Death Notice: Jada Marie Conner, 48, White Salmon

Jada Marie Conner, age 48, a resident of White Salmon, WA, passed away at home on July 16, 2026.

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

Death Notice: Patsy LaRayne Thompson, 86, The Dalles

Patsy LaRayne Thompson passed away on July 18, 2026, in The Dalles, Oregon. She was born on May 27, 1940, and was 86 years old at the time of her passing.

Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson’s Tribute Center, 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com.