Obituaries and Death Notices for 2021

Marcus Flerchinger

Marcus Eugene Flerchinger, 89, passed away Friday, December 31, 2021, of natural causes at his home in Clarkston. He was born in Pomeroy on May 28, 1932, to parents, Orville and Alice (Hooley) Flerchinger.

Marcus was a state boxing champion in his high school years at Pomeroy High School, where he graduated in 1950. He went on to serve four years in the United States Navy from January 1951 to Dec. 1954, when he was honorably discharged. He was very active for the duration of his time in the U.S. Navy, completing four tours and receiving several decorations for his achievements during that time. When he left the Navy, he went home to work for his father and eventually took over the family farm, where he retired in 2013.

Marcus met Ilene Pederson and they were married on July 19, 1953. Together they had three daughters and a son, parting only when Ilene passed 59 years later on July 14, 2012.

Marcus was active in his community, being part of the Odd Fellows, Elk’s Lodge, and Moose Lodge, as well as a member of the Volunteer Sheriff’s Posse in Pomeroy. He also had a charitable heart and made many donations to several different charities over the years.

Marcus was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Ilene; daughter, Susie Carter; son-in-law, Jim Thomas; brother-in-law, Ted Shrum; and many friends.

He is survived by a large family, including his children, Marcie (Paul) Thomas, of Clarkston, Debbie Flerchinger, of Clarkston, and son, Michael Flerchinger, of Pomeroy. He is also survived by his brother, Lee (Rae) Flerchinger, of Clarkston; sister, Connie Shrum, of Medical Lake; grandchildren, Ryan Carter, Kyle (Jamie) Flerchinger, Joey Carter, Joshua (Kayla) Flerchinger and Sarah Henson; and great-grandchildren, Autumn, Summer, Kyren, Emma, Joelyn and Karson Flerchinger.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, January 17, 2022, at Richardson Brown Funeral Home in Pomeroy, 750 Columbia St., followed by a lunch at the Pomeroy Methodist Church, 796 Columbia St. On what would have been Marcus’ 90th birthday, there will be a military gravesite memorial honoring him at 11 a.m., May 28, 2022, at Odd Fellows Cemetery in Pomeroy. The family recommends any memorial donations to go to your favorite charity.

Marie Brown

Marie Brown, 83, of Pomeroy, died Monday, December 13, 2021, at Memory Manor in Pomeroy.

Born to English emigrants Stanley and Olive Gawne, Marie was born in Pomeroy along with her twin sister, Sheila, on August 16, 1938. When Marie was nine the family moved to Spokane, where they owned an apartment building. Marie graduated from Roosevelt Grade School and Lewis Clark High School. Marie attended Washington State University and graduated from Eastern Washington University in 1965. In 1959, Marie married Donald F. Brown and two daughters were born, Donna in 1960 and Debbie in 1961. They were divorced in 1982.

Marie taught high school English and business education in San Francisco, Asotin, and at Lewiston High School. Marie has lived in Pomeroy since 1975 and enjoyed belonging to several community activities. Marie enjoyed her grandchildren, church, reading, playing the piano, visiting, golfing, bowling, watching Jeopardy/Wheel of Fortune.

She is survived by twin sister Sheila Brierley, of Spokane; nieces Kip and Dev Ann Brierley; daughters Donna (Pat) Dixon, of Pomeroy, Debbie (Tom) Kucklick, of St. John; grandchildren Sara (Josh) Olson, of Everett, Washington, Ben (Ashley) Dixon, Pomeroy; grandchildren Joey (Hilarie Kuzma) Kucklick, of Lacey, Washington, and Em (Pricilla) Kucklick, of Las Vegas; and great-grandchildren Harper and Jace Dixon, and Eila Rain Kucklick.

A memorial service is planned for 2 p.m., December 23, 2021, at St. Peters Episcopal Church in Pomeroy. A graveside is planned sometime in the spring.

Kenneth Price

Kenneth W. Price passed away Friday, December 10, 2021, at Garfield County Hospital in Pomeroy of a stroke at age 93.

Kenny was born Sept. 27, 1928, to Harold W. Price and Amy Oliphant Price in Sunnyside, Washington. The family moved to Garfield County in 1930. He had three older sisters, Lucille, Dorothy, and Betty.

During his grade school days, he attended five different schools: Oliphant, the Town School, Dry Hollow School, Chard School, and the Oliphant School for the eighth grade.

He attended Pomeroy High School, where his main sport was boxing. He graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1946. In July of this year, he and six other members of his class celebrated their 75th class reunion.

He was very active in 4-H from the age of 11, raising hogs and cattle, receiving many honors. While in high school, the highlights were winning the State and Western region’s National 4-H Club Congress attended by him and three other boys from the United States. They attended a trip to the International Livestock Exposition and the Club Congress in Chicago. He then went on to attend the National 4-H Club Camp in Washington, D.C., along with three other 4-H club members from the state of Washington. It was felt that it was the highest honor any 4-H boy or girl could win. It was awarded on the basis of their leadership, and achievement in their 4-H club work during their entire 4-H enrollment.

He married Jeanne Wolf on May 22, 1949. He was 21 when his parents retired and leased their land to Kenny and Jeanne.

In 1950 his bull, Elation Domino 1, was grand champion at the Hereford livestock show and sale held in Spokane. Domino was the highest selling bull, bringing in $2,110 from Aldhera Farms in Seattle.

When he was 21, Kenny was selected as the first Garfield County Cattleman. He and Jeanne remained active in the community but as their family grew, the outside organizations lost importance and they spent the next 25 years raising their four daughters: Kimberly (Jim) Burke, of Nine Mile Falls; Cynthia (Bob) Johnson, of Pomeroy; Julie (Curt) Claassen, of Pomeroy; and Amy (Jim) Kirschner, of Redmond, Washington. He has 11 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren.

In 1987, Kenny and his son-in-law, Curt Claassen, were again selected as Cattlemen of the Year. In time, Curt sold the cattle and concentrated on the farm while Kenny continued his hog operation, turning out about 1,000 head to market each year. Kenny retired when he was 80 years old.

He enjoyed helping his grandkids with their 4-H sheep projects and was proud of their accomplishments. He enjoyed making things out of scrap metal, and the Kirschner boys have a playhouse that will outlast their home. He spent hours pulling his kids and their friends behind the boat at the Priest and Williams lakes, and if there were ever any stray kids hanging around the dock they were included, too.

He was probably most known for entertaining. He was called upon to be Master of Ceremonies, sing or recite cowboy poetry at many special events. He, Jeanne, and Margaret Wolf were the Pioneer Association’s Honored Pioneers in 2008.

A celebration of life is being planned for Saturday, January 15. Memorial donations may be sent to the Seeley Theatre, PO Box 648, Pomeroy, WA 99347.

Donald Lakey

Donald Lakey of Pomeroy was born on October 5th, 1940, to Simon and Edna Lakey, the youngest of 12 children. Donald is preceded in death by his parents, Simon and Edna Lakey, brothers, Paul, Clyde, Lloyd, Ralph, Harold Dean, Melvin, and Carl, and sisters Marie, Bernice, Dorthey, and Margie. Donald is survived by his wife of 56 years Sue Forsythe Lakey. He is also survived by his sons Mike (Dawn) Lakey and Dan Lakey. He is also survived by his daughters Thea (Tracy) Fox and his daughter Dawn Lakey. Although Tracy Fox was a son-in-law, Donald considered him as a son. Donald is also survived by grandchildren Joshua (Janique) Lakey, Natalie Lakey, Becca Fox, Jake (a Yessi) Fox, Matt (Laureen) Chafin, Jennifer, Ryan, and Andrew. He is also survived by his great grand children. Kai, Nolan, Kane, Zachary, Hannah, Tori, Jackson, Laz, Koda, Donnie, and Willie. Donald was also very close to nephews Ralph Lakey and Jimmy Lakey.

Donald spent most of his childhood in the Tri-Cities. Donald joined the Marines when he was 17 years old. Once out of the Marines Donald joined the Laborers Local 348. He met the love of his life in November of 1965. They married in May of 1966. While raising a family, Donald worked as a laborer until retiring in 1995.

A service for Donald will be held at The Living Room Church, 1409 S Garfield, in Kennewick, December 8th, 2021, at 1:00 pm.

Charles Duane Woody

Charles D. Woody passed peacefully from this world Nov. 18, 2021, at Prestige Care and Rehabilitation Center in Clarkston, with two daughters and a granddaughter by his side. He died of congestive heart failure.

Charles was born to Ralph O. and Hedvig C (Pearson) Woody on December 25, 1932, in Pomeroy. He married Betty L Bacon July 14, 1967. The two divorced in 1973. They had three daughters: Kimberly (Kevin) Fricke of Newcastle, California, Charleen (Steve) Jackson of Pomeroy and Diana (Troy) Larsen of Waitsburg. His grandchildren include Kyle, Kourtnie, Max, Mitch, Haily, Talen and Teagen; and great-grandchildren Gunnar, Maylene, Starnbjorn, Mileena and Kristopher; and several nieces and nephews.

He was a lifelong resident of Pomeroy, where he attended school and played football and baseball, graduating from Pomeroy High School in 1951. He began studying at Eastern Washington College of Education but was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War. The truce was signed before he went overseas, so he spent time in Japan going to school. He was in Korea for 15 months. He returned to study at EWCE and University of Idaho. Dad also worked for several local farmers and had fond memories of each, especially the Neil Keatts family. He eventually got a job as a bookkeeper with Pomeroy Grain Growers, where he worked for more than 33 years.

After retirement, he took a cruise to the Caribbean with friends Mary Lou Curran and Don and Jane Koller. He and Mary Lou Curran spent time traveling to cemeteries and other historic sites to research their genealogies, including a stop at the Family History Museum in Salt Lake City. He was a real expert on local history, particularly his Baldwin family roots. Charles was a valuable resource on Garfield County history and served as president of the Garfield County Historical Association for some years. The Garfield County Pioneer Association named him an Honored Pioneer in 2015. Car rides around the county would often spark memories of traveling old roads and highways; who used to live where; what used to stand there; and more. He was a member of Pomeroy FFA Alumni Association, a life member of the Garfield County Historical Association and Pomeroy United Methodist Church.

Charles was a devout WSU fan and held season tickets for decades, traveling to several away football games and attending many bowl games. George Raveling once referred to him as "the mayor of Pomeroy." He enjoyed his crosswords and listening to Gospel music and found a renewed pleasure the last couple of years In working on his stamp collection while limited in his mobility.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers Jerome, James and Gordon; and infant sister Martha. His sister Marjorie Bamford resides in Chehalis, Washington.

Many thanks to Tri-State Memorial Hospital and Prestige Care and Rehabilitation Center for the care and loving kindness shown Dad during his time there. And to the Pomeroy ambulance crew who were our heroes many times this past year.

A memorial service is set for 11 a.m., Saturday, December 11, at the Pomeroy United Methodist Church. A lunch will follow in the fellowship hall. Memorial donations in Dad's name may be made to Garfield County Ambulance Fund, P.O. Box 69, Pomeroy WA 99347; Garfield County Historical Assn., PO Box 261, Pomeroy WA 99347; or Pomeroy United Methodist Church, PO Box 122, Pomeroy WA 99347;

Keith "Red" Marvin Demand

Born April 6, 1951 in Pomeroy. Passed away November 9, 2021. He joined the Navy in 1973 as an Aircraft Jet Mechanic and served 3 years. He was released from active duty and transferred to Naval Reserve for 2 years. Red met his wife, Alice Bever, in January 1980. They went on to celebrate almost 42 fun- filled and loving years together.

In 1982 he started his own business called The Garden Master and eventually he changed his emphasis to irrigation calling his business The Irrigation Man.

Red leaves behind his wife, Alice; 4 children from his first marriage (daughter Torrey, son Jacob (KIA 2004 in Mosul, Iraq), daughter Jolynn, and son Timothy). He also leaves his stepson John; a deceased stepdaughter Judi; a brother Vernon and sister Nida. Red has many grandchildren and great grandchildren and he loved them all.

If you wish: Donations to the Emphysema Foundation of America

A visitation for Keith will be held Tuesday, December 7, 2021. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, December 7, 2021 with committal following at East Lawn Palms Mortuary, 5801 East Grant Road, Tucson, AZ 85712.

Steven "Craig" Bartels

Steven "Craig" Bartels, 65, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2021, in Spokane.

Craig was born on December 23, 1955, to Beverly and Denzil Bartels, in Tonasket, Washington. He grew up in Pomeroy where he enjoyed working on his grandparent's farm. While attending Pomeroy High School, Craig began training as an auto body technician. Craig relocated to Spokane, where he continued his passion for auto body, eventually opening a body shop at age 27.

Craig enjoyed hockey, boating, motorcycles, and spending time with his family and friends.

Craig is survived by his wife of 34 years, Trina Bartels, mother Beverly Smith (Hal), his children Eric Graftaas, Kneeley Bartels, and Kelsey Nelson (Jarred), beloved grandchildren Rhylan Bartels and Harley Nelson, sisters Connie Mclean (Mike) and Kathy Ryan (Ron), his Uncle Duane Bartels (Myrna) and Aunt Phyllis Stallcop (Mike), mother-in-law Jonnie Guess, and his lifelong best friend Jon Kelly (Kelly), as well as many other family and friends that were dear to him. Proceeded in death by his father, Denzil Bartels.

His funeral was held on November 20, 2021, at Hennessey Funeral Home & Crematory in Spokane. A celebration of life followed at The Venue of Spokane.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery in his memory. Craig always had extra room in his heart for children in need. Special thanks to Hospice of Spokane and Cornerstone Court for all your compassionate care.

Laurel Helen Feider

Laurel Helen Feider, 95, passed away at her daughter’s home in Dayton on November 4, 2021.

Laurel was born to George W. Bowles and Christle Darland in Pomeroy, on May 22, 1926. Laurel married Raymond Feider on Novermber 28, 1953; he passed away September 1987.

She belonged to the Holy Rosary Catholic Church and a member of the Altar Society.

Laurel is survived by her four children: Margaret of Dayton, George, and Wayne of Pomeroy; Linda (Joe) of Billings, Montana; six grandchildren: Jory (Jaqie), Hailey (Ivoko), Tanner (Raechal), Tyson, Wayne, and Kasey (Helen); five great-grandchildren: Crue, Luka, Pearson, Lincoln and Pearl; sister Betty Pier of Spokane.

Services will be at a later date. Donations may be made to a charity of your choice in Laurel's name.

Barbara J. (Trescott) Bartels

Barbara Jeanette Bartels was born February 25, 1935, and died peacefully Wednesday, October 6, 2021, of a massive stroke. She was surrounded by her family.

A lifelong Pomeroy resident, she married Darrel Bartels a week after graduation. While raising her children, Barbara worked a long career as a third-generation rural mail carrier, intrepidly traveling down the Blind Grade and up the Morengo in blistering heat or white-out snowstorm. “The mail must go through.”

Left behind are daughters Cindi Herres and Julie (Greg) Scott; son Allen Bartels (Wendy Snyder); 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and friend Bill Criss.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Darrel; parents Elmor and Elma Trescott; sisters Vivian Trescott and Elaine Anderson; and infant son Darren Lee.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Pomeroy Cemetery, followed by dinner at Christian Church, 310 Eighth St. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be given to the Eastern Washington Agricultural Museum, P.O. Box 326, Pomeroy, WA 99347.

Roger Williams (1939-2021)

Roger Williams, 81, of College Place, passed away on Sunday, October 3, 2021. Roger was born in Pomeroy on October 13, 1939, to Gene and Marguerite Williams. Roger grew up in Pomeroy where his family owned a farm. After graduating college Roger went on to be ordained an Episcopal priest. Roger was a priest in various locations around the northwest including Walla Walla and Pomeroy as well as Okinawa, Japan. Upon retiring from the priesthood Roger and his wife Jane moved to Walla Walla. Roger and Jane became involved in their community and in the Catholic Church where they were confirmed. Roger enjoyed cooking, traveling, spending time with friends and family, and spending time with Jane. Roger had a wonderful sense of humor and was always willing to listen to anyone who needed to talk.

Roger is survived by his wife Jane; his children: Teresa Valler and Tim Williams; his step-children: Karen Hilyard and Kirk Hilyard; his sister, Claudia Murray; and 10 grandchildren.

There will be a funeral for Roger at Saint Francis Church in Walla Walla, on October 30, 2021, at 2:00pm. Saint Francis Church is a small church so the family is requesting that only close family and friends attend the service. There will be a graveside service at Pomeroy Cemetery at 10:00 am on November 1, 2021, for any one that would like to attend. The family is requesting that all who attend the funeral wear a mask due to COVID concerns.

Isaac "Chubbs" James Roosevelt (1993-2021)

Isaac "Chubbs" James Roosevelt passed away at his home in Pomeroy on September 23, 2021.

Isaac was born November 23, 1993 in Lewiston, growing up in Pomeroy. He attended school at Pomeroy Elementary and Pomeroy Jr./Sr. High graduating in 2012. Throughout his school years he participated in many sports including Little Guys Wrestling, Baseball, and Football. His senior year his team placed 3rd in state for football.

Isaac's love of the outdoors began at an early age with his first best friend, Grandpa Herbie. They spent as much time as possible fishing together. When they weren't fishing together they could often be found in Grandpa's garden.

From a young age Isaac had an interest in fire which lead him to help Alvin Landkammer in the VFW fireworks stand (now the A.L.L. American fireworks stand), selling fireworks in order to give the two Pomeroy Graduates scholarships every year. It was here that his love of fireworks began. Isaac continued this tradition long after Alvin passed away working with Alvin's daughter Doris Ann.

Isaac's love of all things fire also led to him pushing the local fire department to start the Junior Firefighter Program. This program allowed him to join the department at 16. He remained a part of the department for several years.

After graduation he moved to Walla Walla where he attended Walla Walla Community College. There he received a degree in Fire Science with the training to become an EMS and obtained his CDL. He began as a Forest Firefighter in 2013 and continued to fight fire every summer until the fall of 2016, including being a engine boss for DNR his final year. After graduating from college he moved back home. At that time he went to work for Pomeroy Grain Growers Agronomy where he met and assisted many local farmers.

Isaac married Edie Abney on May 28th, 2016 in Pomeroy. Together they spent their time seeking new adventure, traveling to new places, and just spending time with their fur babies Bailey and Cuda. They purchased a home in Pomeroy and spent many hours remodeling it.

Isaac enjoyed many outdoor activities including hunting, fishing, camping, snowmobiling, and golf. He especially loved spending time with friends and family. Over the years Isaac become an amazing cook, he really enjoyed trying new things on his Traeger.

Isaac was a big contributor to the Pomeroy community. He was a Spinners member and enjoyed participating in their activities. He also played golf in the local men's league, and was a long time member of the Pomeroy Gun Club.

Isaac was preceded in death by great grandparents Herbert & Kay (Church Grandma) Cormier; Jim Sr. & Evelyn Roosevelt; Bill & Jean Kelso; Grandparents Rosie Cormier; Dave Lytle Sr. and niece Ellie Rose Sparks.

Isaac leaves behind his mom and dad, Angela & Steven Lytle; sister Shaylyn Roosevelt (Chris Sparks); nephew Kolby Lee Sparks; brother Dominick Lytle (Hannah Quinn); aunt Lenakay Schuman; brother Will Flaget; brother Leland Ross; father William Flaget; grandpa Jim Roosevelt (Ruth Forcier); grandma Teri Lytle; grandma Connie Beale; uncle and aunt Jeff & Michelle Bagby; aunt Shannon Hall; wife Edie Abney; father and mother-in-law, Tom & Marilyn Abney. There are more special relatives and friends, too many to name.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Pomeroy Christian Church at 4:00 PM on Friday, October 15th, 2021. The celebration will continue with a potluck dinner (BYOB) at the Garfield County Fairgrounds. Memorial donations in Isaac's name may be made at Bank of Eastern Washington. Checks can be mailed to Bank of Eastern Washington, PO Box 8, Pomeroy WA 99347. Online donations can be sent via Venmo - @Shaylyn-Roosevelt.

Michael Lee Parlet (1944-2021)

Michael Lee Parlet passed away Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in Moscow shortly before his 77th birthday.

Mike was born October 2, 1944, in Lewiston to Rita and Cecil Parlet. He was raised with his younger brother, Bill, on the family farm outside of Pomeroy where his love of animals and all things outdoors developed. He graduated from Pomeroy High School and attended college at Washington State University.

Mike’s first job, aside from farm work, was at a farm fertilizer company in Pomeroy. While working there, he lived in the old Parlet Apartments on the Main Street of Pomeroy. Mike moved to the Seattle area as a young man where he worked for the Boeing Airplane Co. and then as a salesman selling sporting and outdoor equipment until he retired.

Mike met Karen Zobell and the two were married July 12, 1989, in Maui, Hawaii. They bought a home in Issaquah, where he resided until he was widowed in 2014. Mike then returned to his hometown of Pomeroy where he joyfully reconnected to the community until he was moved to an assisted living facility with Alzheimer’s disease.

He loved the outdoors where he spent time hunting, fishing, hiking, skiing and golfing. He shared his love of fishing and golfing with his wife, Karen, and their grandkids. Mike was known for golfing year-round despite any inclement weather. He was an exceptional cook and enjoyed keeping up on the stock market and financial news in his spare time. When he returned to Pomeroy he volunteered at the Eastern Washington Agricultural Museum. He was a life member and served as president for one year. He shared his vast knowledge of the local history and hosted guided tours of the area to guests.

Mike was a very independent and proud man. He was always willing to help others and loved meeting new people. He was a devoted husband, brother, and a loving father and family man.

Mike is survived by his brother Bill Parlet, of Melbourne, Australia; his stepdaughter, Teresa Bradford, of Monroe, Washington; and his stepson, Nathan Bradford, of Marysville, Washington. He will be greatly missed by his grandchildren, Alexa, Logan, Sophia, Mykayla, Ryder and Mavrik; and great-granddaughter Presley; as well as his nieces and nephew of Perth, Australia, Lauren, Janelle and Mark.

His celebration of life will be held at 11:30 a.m. October 4 at the Pomeroy Christian Church, 310 Eighth St., Pomeroy. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Pomeroy Christian Church or the Eastern Washington Agricultural Museum.

Sandra Joy "Sandy" (Lueck) Holderbaum (1935-2021)

On Sunday, September 5, 2021, Sandy (October 12th, 1935 - September 5th, 2021) passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family.

Sandy loved her family, friends and her pets, especially her dog, Max. If you were lucky enough to have been included in one of those categories, then you knew an amazing, adventurous, sassy, spunky, stubborn, silly, fun, determined woman full of unconditional love.

Sandy is survived by daughters Sylva Albrecht, Terry (Tom) Troyer and Renee Teichmer (Brad Horman); sons Josh (Cathy) Holderbaum and Keith Holderbaum; grandchildren Jeannie Watkins (Ford Pearson), Scottie Teichmer, Tessa Pomfret, Nathan Bicknese (Maggie Callery-Bicknese), Jessica Adams, Brandon Holderbaum and Angela (Kelly) Rake; great-grandchildren Elaina Watkins, Josiah Johnson, James “Daniel” Teichmer, Carissa Majorowicz Rake, Lexi Rake and Lennyn Adams; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harvey and Wilma Lueck; brothers Larry (Lillian) Lueck and Dwaine (Rosie) Lueck; sister Ada (Delbert) Niebel; nephews Michael Lueck and Steve “Bud” Lueck; great-niece Kelley Lueck; and husband Harleigh “Skip” Holderbaum.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you share a photo or memory of Sandy with them (Jeannie Watkins, PO Box 895, Neotsu, OR, 97364).

Wanda I. McFarland (1940-2021)

Wanda I. McFarland, 80, died Sunday, August 22, 2021. Wanda was born on November 4, 1940. Mountain View Funeral Home of Lewiston is caring for the arrangements.

Jean Mary (Tibor) Raaf (1958-2021)

Jean Mary (Tibor) Raaf, resident of Pomeroy, WA, passed away August 22, 2021, at Providence Holy Family Hospital in Spokane. The daughter of Victor and Ann (Conlon) Tibor, she was born January 18, 1958, in Dickinson, ND. She was the youngest of five children.

Jean grew up on the family farm south of Hebron, graduating in 1976, and marrying Allen Raaf June 5 of that same year. They lived in North Dakota until moving to Pomeroy, Washington in 1989. She was a member of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Pomeroy.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Victor and Ann Tibor; in-laws, Alvin and Gladys Raaf; and an uncle and step-dad, Paul Tibor. She is survived by her husband, Allen Raaf; son, Clint; son, Dustin (Heather), and their children, Angel and Annalise; daughter, Jessica (Oscar), and their children, Ethan, Raiden, and Pharoah. She is also survived by her brothers, Jim (Linda) Tibor, Denis (Sarah) Tibor, Robert (Janet) Tibor, Terry (Kisanna) Tibor; and brother-in-law, Jim (Patty) Raaf. There are also many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and all the kids and people she loved as her own children, all of which made up her large and greatly loved treasure of friends.

Megan McCabe Hood (1946-2021)

Megan McCabe Hood, age 74, died in her sleep in Denver on August 20, 2021. Megan was born to Marjorie (Williams) McCabe, on September 9, 1946, almost 9 months from the day her father, Navy Lieutenant Patrick McCabe, returned from Guam after the end of World War II.

After graduation from Pomeroy High School, where she was popular both as a student and a cheerleader, Megan attended nursing school at Sacred Heart, Megan worked at Sacred Heart after graduating and met and married Mike Hood. In time she gave birth to two beautiful boys, Joshua and Jon David, who live in Denver.

Megan acquitted many skills during her nursing career: OB/GYN, Sacred Heart kidney dialysis, Craig Spinal Cord Injury Hospital in Englewood, Colorado, and finally, assistant nursing director in a large nursing home in Littleton. She also worked in the Littleton neighborhood with families who needed special care.

When Megan and Mike divorced, she returned to Pomeroy, and deciding she was finished with nursing, began work as a teacher’s assistant where she devoted her all to Special Ed children.

The happiest time for Megan was when she moved with Dave Petty out to his goat farm on Meadow Creek. She retired from teaching and there on the farm she could be the domestic goddess she was. She was happy to be in nature and meeting only the demands of a farmer’s partner.

Megan died of complications of Supra-progressive Neural Palsy (similar to ALS) and is survived by her children, son Joshua Hood, her daughter in law Kedra Hood, her grandchild Sophia Hood; son Jon David and his partner; and her sisters, Eileen Henry and husband John Henry; Brigid Parker and husband Steve Parker; Jennifer Carrasco; and loving niece Jessica Henry Mennenga, her husband Brian; and nephew John Robert Henry and his wife Chelsey; and her partner, Dave Petty.

No services are currently planned, but there will be a memorial sometime next spring (2022).

Fred G. Stallcop

Fred G. Stallcop of Carmichael, California, passed away peacefully at his home in Sacramento on Friday, August 13, 2021, at the age of 87.

Fred was born to George and Hilda (Hull) Stallcop in Pomeroy, on May 26, 1934. He grew up and worked on the family farm harvesting wheat. He graduated from Washington State University in 1956 with Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. Six days after graduation he married his best friend and soul mate, Cecelia. He was drafted into the Army in 1957 where he served four years in the Air Force ROTC. They moved to California in 1959 where Fred was a USDA Inspector. He began his career in the insurance business in 1960 where he earned several designations. He was the top producer for several years and received many awards.

Fred and Cecelia shared 59 years together before Cecelia passed, and they travelled the country near and far sharing many memories with family and friends.

Fred stayed very busy once he was retired. He continued singing with Country Club Aires chorus and was their volunteer business manager, chairman, quartet, and soloist. Sons In Retirement (SIR) sponsors CCA. Fred held leadership positions serving as Big Sir (President), organized Bridge Group, RV Groups.

He was a beloved husband of Cecelia J. Stallcop, loving father of Keith Stallcop (Mardi), Karen White, and Kevin Stallcop (Kelly). He was a loving grandfather to Michael (Danielle) and Megan Poulos, Kayla White, Karl, Kandice, Kyle (Tasha), Karisa and Kurtis Stallcop and great grandfather to Michael, Nicholas, and Matthew Poulos, Kameron, Kristian, Kaeden, Kylie, and Konnor Stallcop.

A memorial service will be held at St. Marks United Methodist Church, 2391 St. Marks Way, Sacramento, on Saturday, September 25, 2021 at 10 a.m. The service will include a Masonic tribute. There will be no reception following the service. He will be put to rest in a private ceremony in Pomeroy.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Heifer International Foundation or mailed to 1 World Avenue, Little Rock, AR 72202 c/o Stallcop Family Endowment.

Constantine Craven Kuhn

Constantine Craven Kuhn was born April 14, 2021. He passed away Wednesday, August 11, 2021, in Pomeroy. He was 3 months old.

He is survived by his parents, Kyle Kuhn and Bree Aldrich; sister, Calien Aldrich; brothers, Ryan and Gabriel Miller; and grandparents, Don and Tracy Crepeau.

A private viewing took place August 16, 2021, at Merchant Funeral Home in Clarkston. Interment will be held in Kamiah at a later date.

Robert "Lee" Bowen

Robert "Lee" Bowen, 90, passed away peacefully in his sleep after struggling with heart disease and kidney failure on July 21, 2021.

Robert was born in Dayton to Robert and Esther (Pence) Bowen, on June 12, 1931. He attended school in Dayton and was a graduate of Starbuck High School.

He worked many jobs throughout his life, but notably as having a shoe and saddle repair shop in Pomeroy until it burned down in the late 1970s. He was also well-known to locals as a school bus driver for over 35 years. Robert was a Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy and veteran of the Korean War.

Robert is survived by his three children, Randy Bowen of Vancouver, Myra Baker of Coeur d'Alene, and Ben Bowen of Coeur d'Alene; three step children Gail Robbins of College Place, Casey Wakefield of Roberts, Idaho, and Tera Fine of Lewiston.

A Celebration of Life was held in Dayton at the United Brethren Church on August 21, 2021. Donations can be made to the United Brethren Church in his name.

Bob E. Courtney, 1924-2021

Bob E. Courtney went to the Big Dance Floor in the sky Friday, July 16, 2021, at the age of 96 in Clarkston.

He was born August 31, 1924, to A.G. “Mick” and Ada M. Mallory Courtney on the Art and Lula Bott Ranch on Grouse Flats in Garfield County. He lived with his parents on the family farm near Bartlett, Oregon, and completed high school in Clarkston in 1944. He worked summers of his junior and senior years for the Umatilla National Forest road maintenance out of Pomeroy. He worked for the trucking industry for 39 years.

After retirement, Bob spent his time traveling, working with friends’ draft horses and dancing, which was his favorite.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Gale, killed in World War II, Glen Courtney (Mickey Madison Courtney), Neva Barnes, Bill Courtney (Evelyn Greene Courtney); his nephew, Chad Courtney; and his companion and dance partner for some 39 years, Edna “Frankie” Frank. He is survived by Evelyn Greene Courtney, nieces, nephews and many friends.

He and Frankie traveled to a lot of places with their rodeo bull dogging friends from Calgary, Canada, to the Cow Palace in San Francisco. Dancing through it all. Cremation and no service at his request.

Verlea Ruth (Scoggin) Olsen

Verlea Ruth Olsen, 93 of La Grande, passed away on Sunday, July 11, 2021, at a local care facility. A graveside service will be held at Pataha Flat Cemetery in Pomeroy on Saturday, July 17, at 11:00 a.m. Casual dress is preferred by the family.

Verlea was born on March 5, 1928, in Pomeroy to George and Martha (Lynch) Scoggin. She resided in Waitsburg, Milton-Freewater, La Grande, North Powder, Oregon, and Union, Oregon. She attended Scoggin Ridge School. She married Robert John Olsen on January 1, 1947.

Verlea was a devoted wife and mother. She enjoyed growing flowers, taking walks and canning fruit and vegetables. She was a pianist for the church she was a member of.

Verlea is survived by her children, Steve Olsen (Verna) of Cove, Oregon, Lauren Olsen (Debbi) of Yakima, and Sandra Lambert of Mountain Home, Idaho; brother, George Scoggin (Louise) of Pomeroy, 7 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Martha; husband, Robert; brother, Zane Scoggin, sisters, Charlotte Williams, Laota Williams, and Velda Scoggin.

Mike Wolf

Mike Wolf, also known as the “Sheriff of Peola,” died of a tragic accident on Monday, July 5, 2021, while working in his shop. He was born Jan. 21, 1947, in Walla Walla, the third of five children, to Christopher Joseph and Imogene Snyder Wolf.

He attended Holy Family School in Clarkston and then graduated in 1965 from Clarkston High School, where he excelled in wrestling. After high school, he attended Spokane Community College for a while and then was drafted into the U.S. Army. One of his two years of service was in Vietnam, in ’68, at the time of the Tet Offensive, serving as a supply sergeant. He dealt with the after effects of war for the rest of his life.

Shortly before his honorable discharge, Mike married Alberta Martin at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Pomeroy on November 16, 1968. He then went back to school and obtained an associates degree in agri-business. He managed feed plants in both Nezperce and then Moscow.

Later, they moved to Burbank, where Mike established his own business called Wolf Grain and Hay. Mike was known as a great salesman and would have a deal made before you knew what happened, whether it was commodities, vehicles, farm equipment, cattle, horses, or dogs. He was always thinking ahead and would have a plan worked out that would usually work in his favor. He was a man driven by his many interest and ideas and gifted with many talents to bring his ideas to fruition.

They lived at the Wolf Homestead place on Pleasant Ridge for several years, doing a wonderful job of keeping the old place looking nice. Later, Mike was able to purchase a nice piece of land in Peola, right at the tree line. He and Alberta developed it into a beautiful home and gathering place for their family. It was there that he raised Australian shepherds and sold the pups all over the country.

Mike built two shops, but one was called the dog house, where the pups were raised. That was also where he did his creative wood working. The other shop was for metal work, machinery repair and old cars. His last built hot rod was his ’67 Olds Cutlass that was dangerously fast.

Mike was always there to help his neighbors, plowing snow, helping with their cattle or any other need they might have. He knew everything that was going on around the country and was always on the watch for trespassers or any other unsavory activity in the community. Thus, he became known to all as the “Sheriff of Peola,” a title of which he was proud. We are now all afraid of an influx of rustling, poaching, trespassing and general disorder until another can fill Mike’s boots and take on this huge task. Peola may never be the same.

Above all his many interests, though, was his love of family. Mike always had the best interest of his children and grandchildren at heart. He and Alberta were blessed with four children, Lisa Marie Barber and her husband, Glenn, Gina Louise Wolf, Ann Michele Wolf, and Nathan Martin Wolf and his wife, Brenda Jo.

They have seven grandchildren, Garrett Barber and his wife, Madison; Blaine Barber and his wife, Cassidy; Divina Louise Wolf and her mate, Cyle Malcom; Maksim Joseph Wolf; Ezra Martin Wolf and his mate, Macy Forman; Ashton Kelly Wolf, and Adysin Lila Wolf. They also have three great-grandchildren, Copper Barber, Brogan Barber and Adilynn Wolf.

Mike is survived by his wife, Alberta, and all his children and grandchildren; his sisters, Frances Rowden, and her husband, Ron, and Christine King and her husband, David; his brother, Patrick Wolf, and his wife, Linda; and brother-in-law Rufus Winters. He also has many nieces and nephews and many cousins.

Those who preceded him in death are his mother and father, Joe and Imogene; sister Carol Winters; nephew Austin Wolf; and son-in-law Steve Dudley.

His funeral Mass was celebrated July 12, at the church followed by burial at the Catholic cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please donate in Mike's honor to the following veterans causes: Ruck for the Fallen, P.O. Box 4, Oakesdale, WA 99158, or Vietnam Veterans of America.

Betty Allen (Brunk) Stanley Garrison

Betty Allen Brunk was born in Grand Junction, Colorado, on March 24, 1922, and passed away on June 30, 2021 at the age of 99.

Her parents were Glen and Atha Brunk. Betty attended elementary and high school in De Beque, Colorado. She was an excellent student, graduating as Valedictorian of her class. She was also very involved in music and played the piano and clarinet. Following high school, Betty attended Colorado State University for two years where she majored in Home Economics.

On August 7, 1942, Betty married her high school sweetheart, Dick Stanley. They moved to Holden, Washington where Dick worked as a “hard rock” miner. During this time, Betty made many life long friends, became an excellent cook and taught piano. In 1949 the young couple with their two sons moved to Pomeroy where they owned and operated “Stanley’s Tire Store.” Betty loved living in Pomeroy and had many lasting friendships over the 20 years they lived there. In addition to working as the bookkeeper for the family business, her frequent pastimes included bowling, playing golf and bridge and trips to California and Arizona during the winter. She also greatly enjoyed attending and keeping score during her son’s ball games.

In 1968, Dick and Betty sold the Tire store and moved to Spokane where Betty worked in sales at Rusan’s Apparel. She and Dick divorced in 1974 and Betty relocated to Denver where she worked in the Marriott gift shop at the Denver Airport.

Betty married Nelson R. Garrison in 1983. She and Nelson enjoyed playing golf, socializing with friends and attending Denver Bronco’s football games. In 1989, they moved to Tucson, AZ. Ready for warmer weather, but still not ready to retire, Betty worked at the Sun City Visitor Center for many years. She grew to love the desert and played golf year-round. Following Nelson’s death in 1999, Betty continued to live in her Sun City home, playing golf, playing bridge and enjoying her friends well into her 90’s. She was fiercely independent, but in 2018 health issues caused her to move to Spokane to be closer to her family.

Betty is survived by her two sons in Spokane; Wally Stanley (Nancy) and Bill Stanley (Jo Ann), along with 5 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren and 2 great, great grandchildren. Betty will be greatly missed by her loving family and dear friends.

Carole Fay Slaybaugh

With family at her side, Carole Faye Slaybaugh passed away peacefully on her own terms Wednesday, June 23, 2021, after a long-fought battle with heart failure and breast cancer

Carole was born January 25, 1935, in Omak, to Bert Stark and Letha “Sally” Ogden Stark. While Carole moved many times as a youth, including time spent in Alaska, she landed in Pomeroy, living with Aunt Elma and Uncle Elmer Trescott in her junior year at Pomeroy High School, where she later graduated. Carole worked briefly as a dental assistant before marrying Bert Slaybaugh, of Pomeroy. Together on his family’s farm, they raised three children, David Slaybaugh, Darin Slaybaugh and Joanna Slaybaugh Morgan. They also sponsored Park Moon, a Korean American orphan, until her later adoption in the United States. Once the kids were all raised, Carole returned to paid work at the Garfield County Courthouse and Pomeroy Grade School as an aide until her retirement.

Carole enjoyed life researching and documenting family history through genealogy, loving her many dogs, contributing to the care for the environment by picking up litter everywhere she went, traveling and camping, and maintaining a beautiful yard. Carole’s legacy was sharing her love of reading and books with her three great kids, eight amazing grandkids, nine precious great-grandkids and through her work with youth at the Pomeroy Grade School. Carole was a longtime member of the Pomeroy Methodist Church, Pomeroy Pioneer Association and longtime supporter of the Denny Ashby Library.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bert L. Slaybaugh, parents Bert Stark and Sally Ogden Stark Mortimeyer, brother Gerald “Jerry” Stark, and son David Slaybaugh, as well as her many beloved dog companions. She is survived by her son Darin and wife Jo Anne Slaybaugh, of Puyallup, and daughter Joanna and Grant Morgan, residing on the family farm in Pomeroy, as well as daughter-in-law Kathleen Black Slaybaugh Harding of Arizona, plus all the much-loved grandkids — Jeremy, Heather, Martha, Jackson, Collin and Kathryn, Brent, and Kayla, and the great-grandkids she was blessed to touch — Lexi, Kassi, Taylor, Nora, Mason, Gideon, Natalie, Rory, and Peyton.

A gathering to celebrate Carole’s life will be held in the Pomeroy City Park at a future date, pending the arrival of cooler weather and the completion of harvest. Carole’s ashes will be scattered at a later time on the family farm she was dedicated to preserving.

Carole requested that, in lieu of flowers, to please consider a donation in her honor to animal rescue efforts including Helping Hands Rescue, P.O. Box 1975, Lewiston, ID 83501, or Lewis Clark Animal Shelter, 6 Shelter Road, Lewiston, ID 83501, or an organization of your choosing.

The family would like to thank the many Earth angels who helped Mom and the family navigate these last challenging months with grace and peace and laughter, including the incredible staff of Garfield County Hospital and Medical Clinic, Brad Gingerich and the staff of Pomeroy Pharmacy, Nurse Jeanne of Elite Home Health, Max and Brian Scoggin and family, Linda Sharp, Nancy Houser, Leann Clayton, Tammi Bragg and Julie Scott. It truly takes a village, and we are so grateful to have one. God bless you all for helping Mom continue her journey with her distinct legendary style.

David Burnett

David Burnett, of Boston, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2021. He left us accompanied by his husband, Javier, and surrounded by love.

Born in Oklahoma, he lived in Washington State till his late teens and in Boston and New York City afterwards. He was 80 years old. His biggest prides were his daughter Dana, his grandchildren Joey and Chris, and his enduring friendship with Dana’s mother, Diane. He worked at MIT for 30 years. He is also survived by his sisters Sue, Betty, Kathy, and brother Kenny, from the west coast and Florida. He and Javier were together for 40 years and celebrated their marriage five years ago. A resident of Boston, one of his greatest pleasures was to spend time in their summer house in Truro, Massachusetts. He was an accomplished painter, cook, a generous host and loved gardening and nature.

He leaves behind the love of all of those who knew him, as he was above all, a good man full of affection for friends and family. There was a service and remembrance at the Bigelow Chapel in Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on June 21, 2021.

Jean Parker McKinley, 1931-2021

Jean Parker McKinley passed in the comfort of her own home with her children by her side on Saturday, June 12, 2021.

Jean was born July 17, 1931. She was a homemaker extraordinaire. Jean loved sewing, quilting and baking cookies. She made clothing for her children and baby quilts for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and cookies were always abundant in the McKinley home.

Jean married McClellan “Mac” McKinley June 26, 1948, in Pomeroy. Together they had four children: Camela McKinley, Keith McKinley (Del), Cindy McKinley Palmer (Dale) and Kent McKinley.

Jean was a member of the Pomeroy Methodist Church, Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary, Spade Swingers Garden Club, Good Sam RV Club, Red Hat Society and she was an avid reader.

She attended Pataha and Pomeroy schools.

Many loving and special people passed before her: her parents Abner and Grace; her husband, Mac; her sisters Marjorie and Parky; and her dear friend Jeannie Lewis.

In addition to her children, Jean is also survived by her grandchildren Parker McKinley (Jill and children Shea, Cade, Ryker, and Emma), Kori McKinley Wojtylko (Bill and children Alison and Hailey), Mandy McKinley Hutton (Chris and children Dylan, Dalton, and Delaney), Matthew Palmer, Kyndle Palmer, and she was also loved by her furry companion, Keeper.

The family is planning a graveside service for a later date.

Donations may be made to the Denny Ashby Library (PO Box 670, Pomeroy WA 99347) and/or Elite Home Health & Hospice (1370 Bridge Street, Clarkston WA 99403).

Diane Marlene (Grant/ Ferguson) Feider, 1937-2021

Diane Marlene (Grant/ Ferguson) Feider passed away peacefully on May 26, 2021, in Yakima, surrounded by family. Diane was born in Scobey, Montana, to Aaron and Louis Grant on June 30th, 1937. As a young girl, Diane and her family moved to Yakima. Diane attended public school, graduating from Davis High School in 1955.

Shortly after high school, Diane would marry and eventually begin her life as a mother. Although having lived in numerous cities throughout the state, the family's one consistent weekend home since 1970 was their cabin at Lake Cle Elum. The family would cherish decades of summers, holidays, memories and friendships throughout those years.

In the early 1980's, Bob and Diane began their relationship, eventually marrying in 1988. In 1982, Bob and Diane had started their family business, Quality Rentals, which they successfully ran until retirement in 2013.

Bob and Diane enjoyed travelling, camping with family and friends in their motorhome, and anything to do with their grandchildren. They developed a large group of friends and acquaintances over the years. Bob will always be remembered for his large annual Labor Day party which friends and family members always looked forward to. Bob and Diane enjoyed living in their Lake Cle Elum home until eventually moving to Arizona full time in 2013 to enjoy the weather.

Diane was a very loving and devoted mother, wife and friend to all that knew her. Diane took pride in her involvement with the Red Hat Society, serving as the club's Queen for many years in the 90's. Above all else, Diane was most loving and proud of all her grandchildren, and took pride in watching them all transition into young adults.

Diane is survived by her sister Laurie Miller, children Darren (Ingrid) Feider, Scott (Lisa) Ferguson, Leeane Marston, and grandchildren Sara Ferguson, Ryan Ferguson, Matthew Feider, Elise Feider, Nicholas Ferguson, Cameron Munno, and Madison Mckee. She was predeceased by her husband Bob Feider.

A memorial service for Bob and Diane Feider was held on September 24th, 2021, at the Roslyn Catholic Church, followed by a graveside service in the Roslyn Cemetery.

Dora Frances (Curran) Fanning, 1922-2021

Dora Frances Fanning, known to most as Frances, passed away peacefully at the age of 99 Tuesday, May 25, 2021, at the Garfield County Memorial Hospital in Pomeroy.

Frances was born April 6, 1922, in Pomeroy to Zollie and Joseph Curran. She was a 1939 graduate of Pomeroy High School. May 10, 1941, marked the beginning of a 65-year marriage to Bus Fanning. They were blessed with one daughter, Frances Ann Fanning.

Bus and Frances were members of the First Christian Church and spent their lives as proud members of the Pomeroy community. In addition to church functions, Frances enjoyed sewing, golf and playing cards.

After high school, Frances worked for Bell Telephone Company for 20 years, where she served as chief officer. After modern technology left her without a job, she went to work for Old National Bank and National Bank of Commerce until her retirement.

Frances is survived by her daughter, Fran, and her husband, Jim Coombs, as well as those who know her as “Grandma Fanning:” Jimmy, Juli, Jodi and Jami. Great-grandchildren include Emma, Evan, Brooke, Calli, Kaiti, Tyler, Bryan, Bailey, Lizz, Brady and Brittany. She was blessed with five great-great-grandchildren: Corina, Abbott, Warren, Parker and Oakley.

Memorials may be made to the Pomeroy First Christian Church, the Garfield County Memorial Hospital or the Pomeroy Senior Center.

A family service was held June 2 with burial following at the Pomeroy City Cemetery. Merchant Memorial Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Dennis Duane “PeeWee” Slaybaugh, 1941-2021

Dennis Duane “PeeWee” Slaybaugh, 79, passed away on Sunday, May 2, 2021, at his home in Anthem, Arizona. His wife of 57 years, Margaret — “Peggy” — was by his side.

Duane was born in 1941 in Pomeroy, the youngest of three sons. When he was a little boy, the family moved to Grouse Flats, where Duane went to a one-room schoolhouse. In third grade, the family relocated to Clarkston. As a child, he enjoyed fishing with his dad on the Imnaha River when they weren’t working hard farming and ranching.

As a teen, PeeWee was a good-natured troublemaker. He was a fine student and his teachers liked him, even though they often “sent him to the library” for his shenanigans. He was a competitive tennis player and liked working on his cars. He always had many friends and never met a stranger. He met Peggy at Clarkston High School and they began their relationship as good friends. They married in 1964 and started a big family, eventually welcoming seven children. In 1967, Duane graduated from the University of Idaho with a Bachelor of Science degree in education and a minor in English. Though he spent his career primarily in the area of credit management, PeeWee really enjoyed his role as an instructor in the Army Reserves, from which he retired after 20 years spent serving his country.

Along with his family, Duane fell in love with Wallowa Lake, Oregon, spending every summer camping there. He also loved mushroom hunting in the mountains and in the valley, going to Fazzari’s Finest for dinner, to Elks Club events and to the Asotin County Fair, where his children showed steers, pigs and sheep every year. More than just about anything else, he enjoyed attending and following his kids’ and grandkids’ activities and athletic pursuits, including FFA, baseball, football, cheerleading, drill team, volleyball, track, softball, tae kwon do, soccer, swimming, golf, crew and lacrosse. His personal passions included airshows and WWII aircraft, restoring classic cars (and racing stock cars in his younger years), following Gonzaga basketball and Diamondbacks baseball and visiting his second home, Home Depot, for never-ending project supplies.

His life’s work and greatest pride was what he called a “blue ribbon” family: five daughters and two sons. While he was tough when needed (usually in the wake of one his kids’ mishaps), he would tell anyone who’d listen those same kids could do no wrong. After all, his children knew, because he always told them, “If you tell the truth, you can’t get in too much trouble.” Kindness was his default, but if he teased you he loved you. No one knows this better than the myriad childhood friends on constant, welcome rotation at the Slaybaugh house.

PeeWee leaves us as a great man and, above all, a great patriarch. Though it seems mathematically impossible, each of his children, and especially his wife, have countless examples of his unfailing thoughtfulness. He did these things quietly and consistently. He will be missed greatly.

In addition to Peggy, he is survived by his children, Kristine (Dave) Flood of Anthem, Arizona, Chad (Donna) Slaybaugh of Glendale, Arizona, Kelly (John) Richards of Hayden Lake, Kim Kushner of Anthem, Arizona, Heidi (Jim) Buratto of Walla Walla, Ryan (Melissa) Slaybaugh of San Diego and RaeAnn Slaybaugh of Peoria, Arizona.; 11 beautiful grandchildren, whom he adored and to whom he was simply “Pa,” Mackenzie, Colin, John, Joey, Holly, Kenna, Jake, Mitchell, Mary Kaitlyn, Julia, and Tyler.

He was preceded in passing by his mother, Eunice “Babe,” and father, Cecil Slaybaugh; and brothers, Ed and Clem.

The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, June 25 at Holy Family Catholic Church in Clarkston, where he and Peggy were married in 1964 and where all their children were baptized and later attended school. His final resting place will be Vineland Cemetery in Clarkston, alongside several beloved family members who preceded him into Heaven.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Glenda Dixon, 1938-2021

Glenda Irene Dixon, 83, died Saturday, April 10, 2021. She was born in Burley, Idaho, to Glenn and Alta (Firkins) Platt.

She graduated from Burley High School in 1955, and the Platt family moved to San Dimas, Calif. Shortly thereafter, she and her mother arrived in Pomeroy, where she met Sam Dixon.

Glenda and Sam were married in 1957 and moved to the family farm, where they raised three children. She was a stay-at-home mom who cooked, canned, sewed, gardened and baked amazing layer cakes until the children were in school. She then worked as a cashier at Cardwell’s Department Store in Pomeroy for several years. Additionally, she substituted as secretary to the superintendent of the Pomeroy School District before she settled into her job at the Garfield County Health District, where she worked for 21 years.

Throughout the decades, Glenda belonged to several local social hobby clubs, participated in the judging of exhibits at the Garfield County Fair, enjoyed her grandchildren and loved to travel. She and Sam traveled across the United States and Canada and visited Mexico, Ireland and England. Glenda also enjoyed volunteering and helped with the kindergarten class, as well as playing cards with several residents at the nursing home. She enjoyed meeting new friends, visiting with people, and she especially loved to watch bullriding.

She is survived by her children, Pat (Donna) Dixon, Matt (Molly) Dixon and Bridget (Tom) Burgess; grandchildren Sara (Josh) Olsen, Ben (Ashley) Dixon, Eric (Lindsay) Dixon, Kyle (Emily) Dixon, Rebecca (Aaron) Shelton and Brian Burgess; and great-grandchildren Carson, Smith, Cal, Harper and Jace Dixon.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Sam Dixon; brother Leon Platt; and sister Bessie Platt.

Her family will celebrate Glenda’s life at a later date.

Paul Crawford, 1954-2021

Paul Lewis Crawford, beloved husband, dad, brother and grandpa, passed away Sunday, March 28, 2021, in his home in Pomeroy following a massive stroke.

Paul was born April 19, 1954, in Cottonwood to Milton Crawford and Marie Creswell. He grew up in Winchester and graduated from Highland High School in Craigmont. He went into the U.S. Army right after high school. He went to Germany in the Army and spent off hours playing guitar to earn money to travel all over Europe to learn history first hand.

He was later in a band called “Mixed Company,” playing guitar and singing all over northern Idaho. He worked on farms around the Camas Prairie before he started his career in the lumber business, first working in the forests, then working in mills from Elk City to Coeur d’Alene, first settling at Potlatch in Lewiston and then at Simpson Lumber in Tacoma.

He is survived by his wife, Pamela Crawford; his children Robert, Testa, stepchildren Katherine and Vanessa; and grandchildren Diamond, Charlie, Chloe and Terresa; his sisters, Anita, Lyla, Kristina, Janet and Shannon; and his brother David.

A celebration of life was held April 8, in Lewiston followed by an honor guard ceremony and blessing at his gravesite at Lewis-Clark Memorial Gardens.

Phillip Duane Shelton, 1936-2021

Phillip Duane Shelton passed away at Crescent Health Care in Yakima, March 21, 2021. He was born August 22, 1936 in Pomeroy to Herman and Gladys Oliver Shelton. A graduate of Pomeroy High School, he received a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Washington and studied theology at St. Martin’s Abbey in Lacey, Washington and St. Paul Seminary in Ottawa, Ontario.

He worked as a newspaper man early in his career for the Bellingham Herald and the Grant County Journal in Ephrata, Washington. He served as the editor of the Good Fruit Grower in Yakima for many years.

Phil was an avid reader. He could always come up with a book title to recommend to stretch your horizon! He was known as a life-long learner as reflected by his study of Spanish late in life. He loved horticulture, and became a master gardener, cultivating a beautiful garden around his home. He especially enjoyed walks along the Yakima Greenway. He will be remembered as a studious, insightful, kind, and thoughtful gentleman.

He is survived by his wife, Penn O. Shelton; brother-in-law, Don Morfield, Anchorage; nieces Kay Barga, Walla Walla; and Connie Norman, Anchorage; and nephews Duane Morfield and Darin Morfield, Anchorage. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Kenneth Shelton, and sister Judy Morfield.

No public services were held. Donations can be made to the Yakima Area Arboretum.

Judith R. Crawford, 1948-2021

Judith R. Crawford, 73, of Pomeroy, died Wednesday, February 24, 2021, in her home. Richardson Brown Funeral Home of Pomeroy is in charge of arrangements.

Lavona "Joy" Norland, 1932-2021

Lovona "Joy" Norland (89) passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 21, 2021, in Pomeroy.

Joy was born April 22, 1931, in Kansas and passed away just shy of her 90th birthday. During the historic Dust Bowl, Joy moved with her family from Kansas to Oregon at the age of 5. She was the youngest of three daughters raised by Owen and Beulah Gann. Joy and her two older sisters, Paulene and Fayetta, grew up in Nyssa, Oregon, where Joy later graduated in 1949.

At the age of 16, Joy met the love of her life and eternal dance partner at a grange hall dance outside of Ontario, Oregon. Dan and Joy got married in May, 1949, and would continue dancing together for the next 61 years. Dan worked for the Corps of Engineers — a career that took them all over the Pacific Northwest. They raised their four boys, Lonny, Rod, Gary and Kaare, in Umatilla, before moving to Pomeroy in the 1970s.

It takes a special kind of woman to be the mother of all boys, and that she was. These little adventurers have always lived life to the fullest and kept Joy on her toes. With love in her heart and a smile on her face, Joy met all these challenges head-on. Her love for her family was unconditional. If that meant taking over as coach for her son’s Little League baseball team because his regular coach wasn’t getting the job done, or working an extra job to afford a drum set, or hauling the boys to the ER countless times, she was always there for her family. Her tremendous courage was often hidden by her innate ability to openly love forward. Joy was the selfless kind of brave.

When Joy’s children were young, the phrase “stay-at-home-mom” did not exist. But even by the standards of the era, Joy was an exceptional wife and mother. She was a remarkably talented pianist, cook, gardener, and seamstress. Joy loved nothing more than to share the talents she had mastered with the ones she loved. Many of the best memories were made passing these skills to her boys and their families. Joy loved to dance, play cards and bowl. She could fix almost any problem with a good cup of coffee and one of her amazing meals. Joy was truly a name that belonged to her, it not only represented the most vibrant parts of her personality, it also described the overwhelming feeling her presence brought to those around her. Joy always had a smile to share and a laugh filled with love.

Joy is survived by her sister, Paulene; four sons, Daniel Lonigan, Rodney Ray, Gary Allen and Kaare Dee, and their wives, Debra, Frances, Jeanne and Tami; 11 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Joy was preceded in death by her husband, Daniel Norland; her sister, Fayetta Looney; and her parents, Owen and Beulah Gann.

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

Edith Cole, 1930-2021

On Sunday, February 7, 2021, Edith Marie Gentry Cole, a lifelong resident of Pomeroy, passed away peacefully at the home of her son, Gary Cole.

Edith was born May 21, 1930, the only child of Aquilla and Myrtle McMillan Gentry, at the Gentry farm home in Pomeroy. She lived in that home her entire life and graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1948. Her father died in 1941 when she was only 11 years old. Since her mother never drove, Edith was given a permit to drive when she was 13. She drove her mother to town to sell eggs and cream weekly. Edith assisted with the farm chores of milking cows, feeding and butchering chickens. She recalled they had very little money then, and was given 11 cents as her birthday gift.

Edith attended Washington State University one year, studying home economics before marrying Clarence Cole on November 6, 1949. They began farming the Gentry land and Myrtle moved into town.

Edith was a 4-H leader for cooking and sewing. During the ’60s and ’70s, neighboring farms were purchased and Pataha Creek Farms Inc. was formed. Clarence lost his life in a farming accident in 1985. Edith continued to manage running the farming operation. She fed the harvest crew for 65 years, providing two big meals a day. She raised a big vegetable garden and in later years became interested in growing chrysanthemums. She became a national chrysanthemum judge and an all-round flower judge, traveling to many area fairs and flower shows as well as national mum shows.

Edith and Clarence seldom took time away from the farm for pleasure, but they enjoyed the beauty of Hawaii while celebrating their 25th anniversary. Edith also traveled to Ireland with friends and to the East Coast a few times to visit her mother’s family.

Through the years she was a member of many organizations. She served as president of both Garfield County Pioneer Association and Pomeroy High School Alumni Association at which time the group authored the book “Century Farms of Garfield County” in 1989.

During the Lewis and Clark Expedition Bicentennial, she gave talks to schools and organizations giving the “true story” of Sacajawea, wearing a deerskin dress. In 1805, that expedition camped on what became her property.

In 2012, she received the Pomeroy Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Achievement Award for her community activities and service. The Daughters of the American Revolution selected her for their “Women of History” award for her years of work with historical activities.

Edith holds current memberships with Pomeroy United Methodist Church, Daughters of the Pioneers, F.N. Chapter P.E.O., Garfield County Historical Society, Eastern Washington Agricultural Museum, Daughters of the American Revolution, Hi-Lo Chrysanthemum Society and All Seasons Garden Club.

Her greatest joy was her family which includes children Suzanne Grove and Gary (Janice) Cole; granddaughters Nicole Maltby and partner Jeremy Nagowski, and Kristen Maltby Hughes (Mike); great-grandson Cole and Hayden Hughes.

Funeral services were held February 24 at the Pomeroy Nazarene Church in Pomeroy.

Memorial contributions may be made to United Methodist Church c/o Charles Woody, P.O. Box 127, Pomeroy WA 99347 or Eastern Washington Ag Museum c/o Jay Franks, P.O. Box 326, Pomeroy, WA 99347.

Patricia (Klavano) Kazmierczak

Patricia Kazmierczak, 80, of Thompson Falls, Montana, passed away on Sunday, February 7, 2021, after a short illness.

Pat was born November 18, 1940, in Pomeroy, Washington, the daughter of Anna and Edward Klavano. She grew up in Pomeroy on the family farm and graduated from Pomeroy High School.

She met her husband Ron while he was a student at the University of Montana. They later married in Aberdeen, Washington. Pat and Ron made their home in Thompson Falls, where they raised their children Ron, Carie, Henry and Gene. Pat and Ron were married for 55 years.

The willingness to share their life and experiences brought them additional children when, through a youth exchange program, Ron and Pat met the Velazco family of Hermosillo, Mexico. They opened their heart to four more children: Ricardo, Sandra, Adriana and Veronica.

Pat loved her family and the joy that her grandchildren brought to her was evident. She was honored by their accomplishments and the people they had become. Her crowning achievement was to welcome great-grandchildren into her life. A quick visit was never possible as she had so many stories and pictures to share. She crisscrossed the country, traveling to visit friends and family; celebrating weddings, graduations and life. Her favorite trip was driving the ALCAN Highway to Alaska with Ron in their travel trailer. She was excited when a member of the family moved because it meant it was time to plan a trip. But as much as she loved traveling, she always enjoyed returning to the life and home that she and Ron carved out in the community they love.

Patricia Kazmierczak was a woman of faith and believed in the gospel. She was a member of St. William's Catholic Church and spent many years as a member of the St. Williams Catholic Church Altar Society, often as an officer and always as a volunteer. Pat was active in the Cursillo Movement and attended Friday prayer group.

Pat is survived by her husband Ron; her children Ron (Sandra) Kazmierczak of Thompson Falls; Carie (Jeff) Boster of Halliday, North Dakota; Henry Kazmierczak of Post Falls, Idaho; Gene (Anneka) Kazmierczak of Beaverton, Oregon; Ricardo (Loren) Velazco of Palm Springs, California; Adriana Velazco and Veronica Velazco of Mexico. She is also survived by her grandchildren Victoria (Donnie) Pfeifer of Missoula; Anthony (Alisha) Kazmierczak of Bigfork; Cameron Boster of Helena; Taylor (Jordan) Dahl of Fargo and Kyle Boster of Fargo, North Dakota; Jovian Davis of Portland, Oregon; Coleton Kazmierczak of Post Falls, Idaho; Juno Durtschi of Portland, Oregon, and her great-grandchildren Zachary, Hayden, Camila, Cody and Kaden. She is also survived by her sister Kay Bertrand of Detroit, Michigan, a nephew and several nieces.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Anna and Edward, and several brothers- and sisters-in-law.

Community vigil service was held on Sunday, February 14, 2021, and family services on Monday, February 15, at St. William's Catholic Church.

Opal Griffin, 1924-2021

Opal Marie (Wade) Griffin, 96, of Pomeroy, passed away Saturday, Feb. 6, 2021.

Opal was born May 25, 1924, the third child to Henry and Rena Wade in Pomeroy. On July 3, 1946, Opal married William “Bill” Griffin in Lewiston. They were blessed with three children. Rodney, Lynn and Jimmy.

Opal will be remembered for her sweet smile, big hugs and smooches for anyone who needed them. Her joy and happiness were contagious and will be missed dearly. Opal was a hard worker from an early age, from working for families on farms, cleaning and ironing at homes when she was married. One of her biggest accomplishments was being a CNA for Garfield County Hospital (GCH) and working for Dr. Weiland.

Opal is survived by son Rodney Griffin; daughter Lynn Shawley; daughter-in-law Debbie Griffin; six grandchildren Clint Griffin, Marci (Jared) Coffman, Derek (Tracie) Shawley, Deron (Nicole) Shawley, Cricket Griffin (Dan) and Keri Griffin; nine great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson and nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill; son Jimmy; son-in-law Jim Shawley; great-granddaughter Makayla Miller; her parents; siblings Violet Smith, Frances Boyd, and Cecil Wade.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorials can be directed to the Methodist Church of Pomeroy.

Judith Marie Orvis, 1940-2021

Judith Marie Orvis passed away at the age of 80 at home in Canby, Oregon, surrounded by her family on February 6, 2021, after a short, but hard battle with cancer.

Judith was born to Dale and Helen Turner in Lewiston, on May 3, 1940. She graduated from Pomeroy High with the class of 1958 and went to Whitworth College for two years. She was a member of the Eagles Lodge for over forty years, loved to fish and loved spending time with grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Judy is survived by her brother, Jack Turner, and sister-in-law Gayle Turner; her sons: Bill and Tim Orvis, and daughter Barb Downie; grandchildren: Holly Thompson, Kayli Orvis, Nicole DeNoble, Kelli-Jo Weisz and Helen Orvis; and great-grandchildren: Bryce, Brook, Blake, Rylee-Dale, Abby Ann, Aaron and Emmalin.

Donald W. Parker 1933-2021

Donald W. Parker, formerly of Walla Walla and Pomeroy, passed away February 3, 2021, at Hospice of The Valley, Surprise, Arizona, surrounded by family and friends.

Don was born on March 19, 1933, in Pomeroy, the son of Wylie and Celeste Parker. He was the oldest of two children and 18 cousins. He grew up in Pomeroy and graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1951. Don attended Whitman College where he participated in football, baseball and lettered in basketball. He was a unanimous All NW Conference selection for basketball. Don was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity. His college years were interrupted when he was drafted into the Army.

Upon his return to the Whitman campus he met his future wife Caroljean Ronald. Following their graduation from Whitman College in June of 1957, Don and Jean were married. The two began their married life as teachers in Bakersfield, CA and later moved to Hermosa Beach, CA where Don worked in real estate. In 1959 they returned to Oregon where Don was employed with Business Men’s Assurance Co. His passion for coaching and mentoring young men began in 1964 when he accepted a teaching and Varsity Boys Basketball Head Coaching position at McLoughlin High School (Mac-Hi) in Milton-Freewater, OR. He had many successful seasons at Mac-Hi and in 1969 he was hired as the Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Walla Walla Community College. The years at WWCC were exciting and successful times. The gymnasium became affectionately known as “Parker’s Pit” and the fast paced style of basketball became known as “Go-Go Basketball.” Crowds enthusiastically watched his teams play and Don coach in his most colorful way. His success led to his induction into the NWAACC Hall of Fame in 2009.

Don left coaching in 1976 but remained employed at WWCC as the Plant Facilities Manager overseeing the move to the Tausick Way campus. He was instrumental in acquiring the geodesic dome which houses the indoor recreational facilities on campus. In 1980 he started his own roofing and environmental liner company, NW Sealants. He sold his business in 1995 and began embracing his new roles as an avid golfer, gardener, chef, sports enthusiast, and the proudest “Gpa,” “Pa,” and “Grandpa Don” to his seven grandchildren. Don continued his involvement in basketball as a volunteer coach at several high schools in the Phoenix valley. He was a mentor to many coaches at all levels of competition.

In 2007 Don was diagnosed with Waldenstrom Lymphoma. In 2013, after a lifetime in Walla Walla that included college, raising a family and remaining active in the Walla Walla community, Don and Jean moved permanently to Arizona so he could be near his physicians at the Mayo Clinic. In his later years he lost the function of his kidneys and became a courageous dialysis patient. He became known for exercising during his treatments and encouraging other patients to do the same. He was dedicated to fighting the good fight with his health and did so up until the end of his life.

Survivors include his wife, Jean of Peoria, Arizona; daughters, Bonnie Ness (Brad), Beth Over (Larry); son, Jeff Parker (Carrie); sister, Janice Danford; and seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date in Walla Walla. A private graveside service will be held in Pomeroy. Contributions in memory of Don may be made to Walla Walla YMCA Youth Sports Program (WWYMCA, 340 S. Park, Walla Walla, WA 99362 or online at www.WWYMCA.org).

Helen Jeanine Perry, 1937-2021

Helen Jeanine Perry, 83, of Pomeroy, died Tuesday, February 2, 2021, at Riverview Residential Home in Clarkston. Helen was born June 27, 1937, in LaGrande, Oregon. She was one of 5 children.

Helen was an adventurous young woman traveling to Seattle, working for the phone company, flying in airplanes, and eventually marrying Raymond Perry. During their 30-year marriage, Helen raised her three sons Douglas, Donald, and Dean in Waitsburg, Washington. The boys kept her busy with never a dull moment.

She loved to fish, was a great cook, and enjoyed spending time in the family garden. After her children left home and Helen turned 50, she returned to college and remarkably became a registered nurse. She spent many years caring for her patients in Washington and Montana before settling in Pomeroy. for a peaceful retirement. She loved reading, putting together puzzles, and her cats.

Helen attended church at Pomeroy Christian, and she treasured the time she got to spend with her sons and grandson. Helen fought a brave battle with Cancer and even beat the odds by beating Covid!

She was preceded in death by her son Douglas and her sister LouAnne. She is survived by her sons Donald Perry and Dean (Cheri) Perry, her only grandchild Tyler Perry, her siblings David (Lita), Mary, and Susie. Helen was loved and her family is comforted to know they will see her again in heaven.

Janice E. Haase

Janice E. Haase, Colfax native and former Asotin resident, passed away Sunday, January 10, 2021, at the Garfield County Memorial Hospital. She was 87.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. January 23 in the chapel of Bruning Funeral Home in Colfax. Burial will follow at the Colfax Cemetery.

Janice was born August 4, 1933, in Colfax to James and Katherine Thompson Shaw. Her mother and father operated the Table Service Grocery store on Main Street in Colfax for many years. Janice attended Colfax schools and graduated from Colfax High School. She worked for many years as a waitress at Pete’s in Colfax. While there she met Herbert Haase, of Washtucna, and they were married on Dec. 10, 1967, in Coeur d’Alene. Janice had been married before and she and Herb moved with her four children to Washtucna, where she kept very busy as a homemaker and mother. Janice worked as a cafeteria assistant in the Washtucna school and later at the drive-in and café in town for many years. She liked spending time with the family and, as it continued to grow, she especially enjoyed her grandchildren. Herb kept busy working and puttering so Janice found plenty of time to work indoors or watch TV; she especially enjoying her Westerns or the Turner Classic Movies.

They moved to Asotin in 1998, and she went to work at Albertson's in Clarkston. They had a small cabin in the Blue Mountains near Pomeroy and spent many days at the cabin. About four months ago, they moved to the cabin near Pomeroy.

Janice is survived by her husband, Herbert; three children, James Grant, of Florida; Joseph, of Portland; and Jeannine Parkins, of Lind; 10 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. She also leaves several cousins in the area, including Jim Krouse, of Colfax.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Julie and by a son, Jay as well as her parents.

Delbert Grant Boyd

Delbert “Del” Grant Boyd passed away Monday, January 4, 2021, just shy of his 78th birthday.

Delbert was born January 12, 1943, in Pomeroy and lived near Pomeroy his whole life. He married Patricia Rich on December 23, 1971, and they just celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary. He was dad to Daniel (Jamie) and Darin (Christy) Boyd and “Uncle Daddy” to Kenny Kazda, and thought of Brian Blimka as his son. He was Grandpa to Hunter, Jacop (Danielle), Dakota Christensen, MiKayla (Craig) Rasmussen, Dylan Roediger, Michael (Alyssa), Kaitlyn Warford, Corey Weld and Joshua, and Great-Grandpa to Anna Jo Rasmussen.

He is survived by brothers Frances Boyd and Mike (Andy) Petrusky and sisters Carmen (Art) Lucero and Margaret (Steve) Kazda and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceeded in death by father and mother James E. Boyd and Elmira M. Hill Boyd; brothers and sisters James Riley, Ronald R., Charles R. Boyd, Steven Petrusky, Virginia Mae Gripp and Nita Kay Blimka.

Delbert graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1963. He then valiantly served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam conflict on the USS Diamond Head from 1964 to 1968.

He worked at Pomeroy Grain Growers and Pomeroy Warehouse and Feed as a warehouseman and semi-truck driver. He loved the mountains and outdoors, fishing and hunting, fast cars and truck-driving. He didn’t know a stranger and enjoyed visiting and storytelling. Del was considered “friend” by many and will be missed by all.

Funeral arrangements were handled by Merchant Funeral Home. A graveside ceremony was held January 9, 2021, at Pomeroy City Cemetery.