Death Notice: Jerome “Jerry” James Betts, 87, The Dalles

Jerome “Jerry” James Betts, age 87, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on October 19, 2026.

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

Death Notice: Shelly Denice Easton, 58, The Dalles

Shelly Denice Easton, age 58, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on October 24, 2026.

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

Death Notice: Mary Esther Korhonen, 78, Hood River

Mary Esther Korhonen passed away on October 25th, 2026, at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital. Mary was born on December 13th, 1947, and was 78 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.

Obituary: Robin Lynne Wagenblast, 76, The Dalles

Robin Lynne Wagenblast was born in The Dalles, Oregon, on July 26th, 1950, to Robert “Bob” Harold Wagenblast and Shirley Louise Wagenblast (née Martin). Robin was the second of two children to the couple, as she had an older brother, Phillip. She had many fond memories of her childhood digging for clams on the Washington coast, traveling with her family while her father sold heating oil, and spending time at her grandmother’s home. Yet none were more precious to her than the summer of 1955 when her family visited Disneyland in its opening summer. Her love for Disneyland and Disney productions was later passed on to her three daughters, as they watched new releases in the cinema and had multiple birthday cakes based on Disney characters. Robin attended school in The Dalles, ultimately graduating from The Dalles High School. She was passionate about theatre and participated in multiple productions while attending high school.

After graduation, she attended the University of Oregon in Eugene. She majored in Education and minored in Theatre, pursuing her artistic passion but with a keen eye towards the future. At U of O, she met Joan Dube, who would become her lifelong friend. While attending university, she worked multiple jobs to pay for her education and was able to graduate early as a result of her fastidious dedication to her goals. After graduation, she completed her student teaching in Dufur, Oregon, accepting a position at the elementary school after completing her training. Robin was passionate about education, striving to find fun and creative ways to teach her students about multiple subjects. Robin cared deeply about her students and their families, a trait that permeated all aspects of her life. She also enjoyed traveling to expand her mind and worldview, and took a memorable trip to Europe, visiting several places including Hungary and Yugoslavia.

After teaching at Dufur for several years, Robin had the opportunity to move abroad, as Australia was seeking international teachers. She moved to South Australia, accepting a job in the suburb of Para Hills in Adelaide. While at this position, she chose to live on the coast, as she had always wanted to live at the beach. Robin enjoyed working with the families of her students and the added challenge of cultural and linguistic barriers that were sometimes present. Always seeking understanding, she took great care to learn about the families to help find the best approach to teaching individual students. While at this position, she became friends with a fellow teacher, Lee, who would eventually lead her to a man who would change the rest of her life.

While cooking an extensive meal for Lee & the dinner party guests one evening in 1980, Robin met Carl Edward Smith, a man who she later described as her soulmate. Though Carl lived in Smithton, Tasmania, he and Robin maintained a long-distance relationship until they could finally be wed on January 9, 1982. The couple wed at St. Bede’s Anglican Church in Semaphore, South Australia; they were married by Reverend Robert Niehus. Since the wedding was held at the height of the Australian summer, Robin’s bouquet was made of pink and apricot carnations to withstand the 40-degree Celsius heat. The flowers matched the ethereal dresses of the maid of honor, bridesmaids, and flower girls, and complemented Robin’s beautiful gown. The wedding was attended by several of Robin’s family members from the U.S., including her parents, brother Phil, and maternal grandmother Isabel. Much of Carl’s family was also in attendance, including his son Brett, mother Phoebe, and several siblings, nieces, and nephews. Carl & Robin honeymooned in Aotearoa/New Zealand, enjoying stunning locations such as Dunedin and Rotorua.

After the honeymoon, Robin & Carl settled down in Smithton, Tasmania. Soon after, Robin became pregnant with their first child, Christina Lynne, who was born on April 13th, 1983. About two years later, they had their second daughter, Melinda Susan, born on July 24th, 1985. Their third daughter, Tameka Ann, was born on March 8th, 1988. Their family was now complete, with four children: Brett, Christina, Melinda, and Tameka. The Smith family lived on Havelock Street in Smithton, in a quirky historical house that Robin adored. Robin made every holiday and event special, cooking feasts, decorating, and inviting loved ones into her home to celebrate together. While living here, Robin raised her children with lots of affection and a focus on their education. Her daughters were encouraged to read, create, and learn about their world through travel. Robin & Carl took the girls on many trips throughout their time in Australia, visiting big cities and small communities alike. The focus on combining joy and education as they traveled was persistent, as Robin was always an educator at heart. The girls participated in a variety of extracurriculars, including dance, theatre, and sports; no matter the activity, Robin was always there to support her children and encourage them to succeed. The girls grew up in the Havelock Street house until the family decided to relocate to The Dalles, Oregon to be closer to Robin’s parents.

In October of 2000, Robin and her family packed up their lives and made the long trip from rural Tasmania to the United States. In order to obtain her substitute teaching license, she started taking classes at Columbia Gorge Community College. She started art classes with local artist Jeff Stewart, and fell in love with oil painting (specifically landscapes). Robin had always been a skilled cook and baker, but her talent for oil painting was a surprise to her. Robin also attended St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in The Dalles, where she was a member of the choir and a steadfast attendee. Robin valued her church community and enjoyed her time with them immensely.

While living in The Dalles, Robin also learned the family business and eventually took over The Dalles Marble & Granite from her mother when Shirley retired. Robin was also the primary caregiver for Carl and both of her parents, demonstrating her love and dedication to her family under all circumstances. Robin lived in The Dalles the rest of her life, creating art, sharing her love of food, and showing kindness and compassion to her loved ones and strangers. Robin is preceded in death by her parents and her husband Carl. She is survived by her son Brett and his wife Merle in Casino, New South Wales; her daughter Christina and her husband Rick in Houston, Texas; her daughter Melinda in Bend, Oregon; and her daughter Tameka, her husband Morgan, and their son Luke in Portland, Oregon. She is also survived by her brother Phil and his wife Nancy in Lithia, Florida, in addition to many cousins, nieces, nephews, and other loved ones across the United States and Australia. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Rowena Wildlife (with a note “for the cats”), or contributing time, money, or food to your local food bank.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Robin Smith on Thursday, October 29, 2026.

Viewing

• 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

• Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home

• 1100 Kelly Avenue

• The Dalles, OR

Funeral Service

• 1:00 p.m.

• St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

• 1805 Minnesota Street

• The Dalles, OR

Graveside Service

• 3:30 p.m.

• IOOF Oddfellows Cemetery

• Cherry Heights Road

• The Dalles, OR

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

Family and friends are welcome to join in honoring Robin’s life and memory.

Obituary: Robert Allen (Jake) Moore, 49, Hood River

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Robert Allen (Jake) Moore on October 20th, 2026, at the age of 49. Jake was born and raised in Hood River, Oregon where he lived a life marked by integrity, compassion and deep devotion to his family.

Growing up, Jake was involved in Cub Scouts of America, 4-H, FFA and enjoyed High School football and rodeo. After graduating from Hood River Valley High School in 1995, he attended Central Wyoming College, but ultimately realized his calling was to work the family farm. Jake loved and embraced the challenges of the orchard and cultivated meaningful connections with his work family for 30 years.

In 2010, Jake married his high school sweetheart, Carrie Turner. They enjoyed traveling with family and friends, trying new foods, seeing new places, and making friends along the way.

Jake’s love of cooking and barbecuing quickly transformed him into a renowned chef amongst his family and friends. When word caught on that Jake was cooking, everyone showed up, and meals became a treasured time of bonding and reflection.

Another special pastime for Jake was his annual trip to Wyoming in October. This was an opportunity to celebrate the end of harvest, golf, hunt and catch up with relatives in the area.

Jake was predeceased by grandparents Robert (Bob) and Bette Thomsen and Allen and June Moore ;father-in-law Don Flerchinger; cousins Tom Sieverkropp and Julie Dillingham; nephew Wyatt Smith (and friend Matt Kellogg). Jake is survived by his wife Carrie Moore; parents Bruce and Lynn Moore; his two brothers Jason (Rayna) Moore and Justin (Erika) Moore; mother-in-law Carole Flerchinger and father-in-law David Turner; two sisters-in-law, DeAnn (Jim) Swisher and Susan (Todd) Anderson; nieces and nephews, Koen and Makayla Moore, Taylor and Bailey Trahan, Zoe and Lexie Swisher, Allie and Henry Anderson; aunts and uncles Chuck (Kristi) Thomsen, Christy (Tom) Ewald, Lisa (Ramiro) Elisea, Patrick (Sue) Moore, and Beth (Matt) Peters.

Jake touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His generous spirit, compassion for others, and good humor will be remembered forever. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness and joy that has had an incredible impact on us all.

Services to celebrate Jake’s life and mourn his passing will be 4:00 p.m., Friday, October 30th, 2026 at River of Life Assembly (979 Tucker Road, Hood River, Oregon) and a time of continued sharing to follow at the Pine Grove Grange (2835 Van Horn Drive 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.

Obituary: David Princehouse, 82, Hood River

David Princehouse, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on November 22, 1943, in Hood River, Oregon, David spent most of his life in the beautiful community of Parkdale, a place he was proud to call home.

David was a wonderful father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. Along with his wife, Carolyn, he raised their three daughters, Kim, Kristi, and Kellie. His family was his greatest pride and joy, and he gave them a lifetime of love, laughter, guidance, and memories that will be cherished forever.

As a young man, David worked at Dee Mill before beginning a career in excavation. With his strong work ethic, determination, and independent spirit, he eventually started his own excavation business. He became known by many as “I Can Dig It Dave,” a nickname that perfectly captured both his work and his great sense of humor.

David loved the outdoors and the beauty of the Oregon he called home. He especially enjoyed hunting and fishing with his close buddies and family. He had a deep appreciation for nature and animals and found joy in the simple pleasures of being outside and spending time with the people he loved.

Those who knew David will remember his huge heart, quick wit, wonderful sense of humor, and generous spirit. He had a way of making people laugh and making those around him feel welcome. He was not only a beloved father and grandfather, but also a true friend to many.

David is survived by his ex-wife, Carolyn; his three daughters, Kim, and her husband Bernie, Kristi and her husband Randy, and Kellie; seven grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren, along with many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him deeply. He was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Alice Princehouse; his brother, Frank; and his sister, Mayme.

He may be gone from our sight, but he will forever be a part of the family, the stories, and the memories we carry with us.

Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com

Death Notice: Douglas Charles Hunter, 78, Maupin

Douglas Charles Hunter, age 78, a resident of Maupin, OR, passed away at home on October 23, 2026.

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

Death Notice: Christopher Edward Arp, 63, Grass Valley

Christopher Edward Arp, age 63, a resident of Grass Valley, OR, passed away at home on October 15, 2026.

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

Death Notice: Jerry Wilbur Dorzab, 84, The Dalles

Rosa Anna Dorzab, 82, who passed away on Oct. 6, and Jerry Wilbur Dorzab who passed away on Oct. 22

Jerry Wilbur Dorzab, age 84, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge on October 22, 2026.

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

Obituary: Jean Marie Neuberger, 88, The Dalles

Jean Marie Neuberger, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on October 16, 2026, at Callaway Gardens in Kennewick, Washington. She was born on January 17, 1938, in Hazen, North Dakota, to David and Emma Pischel.

Jean graduated from Hazen High School in 1957, and that same year, on July 26, she married the love of her life, Allen Neuberger. Together, they shared 40 years of marriage, building a life filled with family, friendship, and many cherished memories. Their family grew with the arrival of their two sons, Carlyle in 1958 and Kevin in 1961. In 1960, the family moved from North Dakota to The Dalles, Oregon, where they made their home and built their life together.

Jean worked at J.C. Penney, Downey Furniture, and Temple Distributing throughout her career. She was also an active member of Faith Lutheran Church and Gateway Presbyterian Church, where she found community and fellowship.

Jean found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved playing pinochle, dancing to polka music, and traveling to new places. Above all, she treasured the time she spent with Allen. Whether enjoying a favorite pastime or simply being together, those moments were an important part of her life. Her love for her family and the memories they shared will continue to be treasured by those who knew and loved her.

Jean is survived by her son, Kevin, of Kennewick, Washington; her granddaughter, Carly (Travis), of Portland, Oregon; her grandson, Will (Megan), of Dufur, Oregon; and five great- grandchildren, who carry forward her family’s legacy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, David and Emma; her beloved husband, Allen; her sister, Ruth; and her son, Carlyle.

Jean’s life was one of family, lasting love, and the everyday joys that make a life meaningful. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A graveside service will be held on October 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Odd Fellow Cemetery on Three Mile Road in The Dalles, Oregon.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

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

Obituary: Lorene Merz Murray, 92, Hood River

Lorene Merz Murray, born on December 18, 1933, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2026.  She was born in Woodland, WA to John A Merz and Luella Eaton Merz. She lived a life marked by dedication, quiet strength, and unwavering commitment to her family, her work, and her community.

She married the love of her life on September, 13, 1951 and they were married 60 years before his passing in 2011. To this marriage, 2 daughters were born. Evie in 1952 and Kathie in 1954.

Lorene was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, Albert William “Bill” Murray; her brother, John A. “Scooter” Merz; and her step‑siblings Joanne Godfrey Bader, Joe Godfrey, and Joyce Godfrey Cannon.

She is survived by her daughters Evie Hasty (Rod) and Kathie Alley (John) of Hood River, Oregon. Lorene leaves behind her grandchildren Rod Hasty of West Linn, Oregon; Mike Hasty (Rachelle) of Warrenton, Oregon; Matthew Alley (Heather) of Hood River, Oregon; and Katie Breshears (Bob) of Hood River, Oregon. She is also survived by her great‑grandchildren Taylor Plummer, Lilly Hasty, Tanis Hasty, Niko Alley and Mark Peleshok, each of whom brought her tremendous joy. She also leaves behind her sisters Melody Smith of Woodland, Wa and RosAnne Merz of Ecuador and her brothers Ron Merz of Hood River Or and Steve Merz of Lebanon, Or

Throughout her life, Lorene was dedicated to service, craftsmanship, and community. She worked at Kaiser Hospital in Vancouver, Washington, and Portland, Oregon, where her reliability and compassion were deeply valued. She later shared her extensive knowledge of plants at the Lake Grove Garden Center in Lake Grove, Oregon. Lorene also played an essential role as a partner with her husband, Bill, in operating Murray’s Bakery in West Linn, Oregon, helping build the bakery into a beloved local institution.

Lorene’s personal interests reflected her creativity, intelligence, and gentle spirit. She found great joy in floral and vegetable gardening, tending her plants with remarkable knowledge and care. A talented seamstress, she crafted clothing and household items with skill and precision. She cherished music, singing faithfully in the church choir and holding a lifelong appreciation for classical music. Lorene was also an exceptional cook, contributing her talents to the warm, welcoming atmosphere of Murray’s Bakery.

Lorene will be remembered for her kindness, her steady presence, and the deep love she carried for her family. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the traditions she nurtured, and the quiet strength she shared with all who knew her.

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: Nikki Jo Amoss, 79, White Salmon

Nikki Jo Amoss, age 79, a resident of White Salmon, WA, passed away at home on October 15, 2026.

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

Death Notice: Lenora Maude Parke, 88, The Dalles

Lenora Maude Parke, age 88, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at the Oregon Veterans Home on October 14, 2026.

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

Death Notice: Melody Hilton, 64, Hood River

Melody Hilton passed away October 18, 2026, at home in Hood River, Oregon.  

Melody was born on July 15, 1964 and was 62 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: Sherry Phillips, 86, Hood River

Sherry Phillips passed away on October 17th, 2026, at Hood River Providence Hospital in Hood River, Oregon. Sherry was born on September 22nd, 1940, and was 86 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.

Death Notice: Lore Semmes, 89, Hood River

Lore Semmes passed away October 2, 2026, at home in Hood River, Oregon.   Lore was born on November 13, 1936 and was 89 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: Jeanine Mae Jacobson, 85, Hood River

Jeanine Mae Jacobson passed away on October 15, 2026, at Hood River Care Center in Hood River, Oregon.  Jeanine was born on October 22, 1940, and was 85 at the time of her passing.

Services are pending, with arrangements 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: Winifred Mary Schecter, 80, Dufur

Winifred Mary Schecter passed away on October 12, 2026, at the age of 80. Born Winifred Isseks on May 27, 1946, in Portland, Oregon, Winifred was an author, wife, mother, proud grandmother, world traveler, and teacher who lived in Friend, Oregon. Winnie, as she was called by all who knew her, passed away peacefully at home after a battle with Glioblastoma.

In 1970 Winnie and her husband Bob Schecter left Portland for Friend, Oregon, a rural area in the foothills of the Eastside Cascade Mountains, where in Winnie’s words they, “planted trees, built houses, and turned 36 acres of scrub pine into a home”. Bob and Winnie formed a group of tree-planters that planted over a million trees in Wasco and Hood River County forests. They built a small cabin that after several additions became Winnie’s dream home. They raised their two sons and spent most of the next fifty-seven years in Friend. Winnie was the secretary/treasurer of the Friend Community Club that maintains the Friend School House and Friend Cemetery for over twenty years.

Winnie had over a dozen books published under her pen-name Winifred Morris. Her writing career began in 1985 with the young adult novel With Magical Horses to Ride followed by The Jell-O Syndrome and Dancer in the Mirror. She went on to write numerous award-winning children’s books including David and the Ice Elf, Just Listen and What if the Shark Wears Tennis Shoes, and later moved to romantic comic thrillers like The Sometime Burglar and Bombed.

Winnie never stopped writing. Her first science-fiction story Narcopia was published in September 2026 by Amazing Stories Magazine.

Winnie graduated from Portland State University with a Master of Arts in English in 1970. She taught Math and English at Jefferson and Lincoln High Schools in Portland. Later, in the 1990s, she taught English and Creative Writing at Portland State University, Portland Community College, and Mount Hood Community College.

Winnie’s travels took her to India, China, Japan, Poland, Italy, Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, and across the United States and Canada. She saw a good portion of the American West from the back of a motorcycle on the numerous road trips she took with Bob. She liked to ride fast on curvy roads.

Winnie was an avid skier who skied Mt. Hood until she was seventy-nine years old. She loved cats, walking in the woods, riding her mountain bike, reading on the porch, and watching the turkeys and deer gather at the pond.

She is survived by her husband of fifty-nine years, Bob Schecter, two sons, Jess and Steve Schecter, grandchildren Colin and Evelyn Schecter, daughters-in-law Varina and Amanda Schecter, and brother Nathan Isseks.

Winnie brought her own unique light to this world, inspiring many through her writing, adventures, and passion for learning. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A memorial service for Winifred Schecter will be held at The Friend School House on Saturday November 7th at 2pm. Friend School House, 80060 Friend Rd, Dufur, OR 97021.

Death Notice: Ross Brown, 72, Hood River

Ross Brown passed away on October 13, 2026, at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital in Hood River, Oregon.   Ross was born on November 22, 1953, and was 72 at the time of his passing.

Services are pending, with arrangements 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: Richard Adams Lyon, 83, The Dalles

With heavy hearts, we share that Richard Adams Lyon passed away and crossed over the Rainbow Bridge on July 13, 2026.

Born September 23, 1942, Richard grew up the middle of three brothers in small towns near the shore of Long Island, NY. Athletic, outgoing, and highly intelligent, Richard graduated as Valedictorian of Oyster Bay High School in 1960. Rather than follow the family tradition at Cornell, Richard enrolled in the prestigious Williams College, graduating with honors as a varsity swimmer and member of St. Anthony’s (Delta Psi) in 1964. Richard was described by classmates as brilliant and friendly (and very admired by the women of Bennington College). Richard was a scholar and lifelong learner, earning multiple degrees and certificates in his life, including a Master of Arts from Western Washington University and Master of Theology from Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado.

After Williams, Richard spent a year abroad in Rio de Janeiro, enjoying a life-enriching experience living with a Brazilian family. In 1965, Richard voluntarily enlisted in the US Army during the Vietnam War. A member of the 101st Airborne Division, he earned many recognitions and was honorably discharged in 1967. Tragically, his deployment to Vietnam and the horrors he experienced there had a lasting impact on his life, causing him to suffer anxiety, PTSD, and depression throughout life. In a journey to reclaim his love of life and spirit, he spent all his life seeking wisdom, spiritual grace, and the presence of forgiveness, redemption, and love in the world.

After spending several years in the late 1960s California hippie counterculture with his brothers Alex and Matthew, Richard’s insatiable quest to learn and grow, as well as explore the mysteries of the spiritual realm, led him to the ministry. He spent several decades as the Reverend Richard Lyon, an ordained Minister of the United Methodist Church, in Nevada, California, and ultimately, Aspen, Colorado. The Roaring Fork Valley high in the Colorado Rockies, the peaks that surround it, and especially the community in it became the great love of Richard’s life, where he felt more at home there than anywhere in the world. It was there he participated in and honed many of his great passions: stage acting in local theater; skiing and climbing mountain peaks; painting and mask making; storytelling and exploring spirituality.

As the Minister at Aspen Community Church, Richard was adored, and his sermons were known as exceptional and provocative. He was particularly proud to have performed marriage ceremonies for same sex couples even when condemned by the more conservative wing of the church. Always interested in the more mystic side of Christian tradition, such as the gnostics or the divine feminine, Richard left the church after retirement and became very keen to learn and practice shamanic traditions from various cultures for the rest of his life. He became a strong elder presence in a spiritual group that met weekly in Carbondale.

Richard was a well-known character around the Roaring Fork Valley. As an Associate Artist of Thunder River Theater Company, he performed in many roles, renowned for his powerful stage presence. He told stories to children at the public libraries and schools, attended local festivals, walked in parades, always bringing theatrical flair with expressive costumes customized for each event. He was easily recognizable in his cherry red hard top Porsche Carrera 911. An adventurous soul, he loved to travel and went all over the world, including Southeast Asia, China, Brazil, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Mexico, and even a successful climb to the peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. He earned a PADI Open Water SCUBA diving certification, and even won a Jalapeño pepper eating contest (by eating 27 peppers!). He loved classic Rock ‘n ' roll and played guitar for a time in a rockabilly band. Richard was a man who lived life as fully as he could, always seeking forward momentum to keep his troubled soul engaged with meaningful living!

In the final years of life, Richard moved to Oregon to be near his nephew and niece, and passed away being well cared for at the Oregon Veterans Home in The Dalles. His niece Melanie was bedside and comforting him as he crossed over. Richard was predeceased by his mother, Agnes Drysdale Milliken, his father, Robert Newell Lyon, his older brother, Alexander Lyon, and his younger brother, Matthew Lyon. He is survived by his niece Melanie Lyon and nephew Benno Lyon, who will miss him dearly.