Funeral Notices and Obituaries for Deaths Prior to 2018

Dwaine Irvin Lueck, 1936-2018

Dwaine Irvin Lueck passed away April 9, 2018, in Spokane after a long battle with advanced Stage COPD. Dwaine was born in Davenport October 15, 1936, to Harvey and Wilma Brink Lueck.

Dwaine married Rose Briggs in Spokane on October 20, 1957. Dwaine's Navy career lasted almost 23 years and took his family to many locations during that time. Rose and Dwaine had three children: Renee, Connie, and Larry. Rose and Dwaine enjoyed traveling and gambling and after retirement moved in 1994 to Laughlin, Nevada, to have secondary careers at the casinos.

Dwaine was preceded in death by his wife Rose of 58 years. He was survived by their children Renee and Dave Collingham of Spokane; Connie and Brian Stolz of Chicxulub, Yucatan, Mexico; and Larry and Cathy Lueck of Lancaster, California. Grandchildren include Scott Niebel, Megan Mahnke, Stephanie Luibil, and Emily, Molly, and Jon Lueck. Great-grandchildren include Haden and Kellan Luibil and Elysium and Annora Mahnke. Dwaine is also survived by a single sibling, Sandra Holderbaum of Lewiston. He was preceded in death by his parents and remaining siblings.

Joint services for Dwaine and Rose (who passed away in 2015) were held at the Washington Veteran's Cemetery, Medical Lake, July 9, 2018.

Gordon Dean Beyer, 1965-2018

Gordon Dean Beyer, 52, a resident of Potlatch died Feb. 6, 2018, at Gritman Medical Center in Moscow. Born June 19, 1965, at St. Maries, Idaho, to Gordon M. and Sherry L. Brown Beyer, he attended schools at St. Maries and Potlatch. He also went on to earn welding certifications at Lewis Clark State College in Lewiston. He married Kristiana Jones May 2, 1986, at Coeur d’Alene, and the couple made their home at Potlatch.

He worked for Garfield farmers where he learned to drive semi-truck. He started working in 1998 for Wm V. Lowry & Son driving logging truck. He also worked for Wilbur Ellis hauling chemicals, driving chip truck for Bennett Lumber and finally driving logging truck for Hansen Logging at Harvard, Idaho, until health reasons forced him to retire. Dean loved to work on cars, hunt, and fish.

Survivors include his wife of 32 years, Kristiana Beyer, at the Potlatch home; sons, Steven Beyer and his companion Courtney Jewett, Moscow; and Aarohn Beyer, Potlatch; daughter, Elainalynn Andres (CJ), all Potlatch; sisters, Shirley Mooney, Portland; Lynda Rustand, Moscow; and Sherry Allery and Peggy Fortner, both of Genesee; and six grandchildren.

Memorials are suggested to the Potlatch Ambulance Fund, Box 63, Potlatch, ID 83855.

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Nelda Irene Koller

Nelda Irene Koller, 77, passed away peacefully, Wednesday, February 7, 2018, at Whitman County Hospital in Colfax from complications of pneumonia and heart failure. Nelda was born September 13, 1940, to Clarence and Lottie Kimble Watson in Pomeroy. She grew up on a farm, 25 miles south of Pomeroy on the edge of the Blue Mountains. She graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1958.

In February of 1959, Nelda married Larry Koller, they divorced, and were remarried on November 26, 1960. She completed her freshman year of college at WSU and then attended beauty school in Spokane and became a licensed beautician. While Larry was attending WSU finishing his veterinarian degree, they lived in Pullman from 1960-1963. Nelda worked as a beautician and was raising two children at that time.

In June of 1963, they moved to Lewiston, Idaho, and Nelda became a full-time homemaker with three boys. In September 1968, the family moved to a farm 20 miles north of Pomeroy, then with their fourth son. They resided there for 42 years while raising four sons. Nelda helped with the family farm and livestock activities.

Nelda was a lifetime member of the Pomeroy Christian Church, teaching Sunday school when she was in high school and later. She was twice president of the Mother’s Organization associated with the AGR fraternity at Washington State University, Superintendant of The Home Ec. Department at the Garfield County Fair for approximately ten years, a member of The Spade Swingers Garden Club and a dedicated Pirate Booster. She loved quilting, crocheting afghans, playing cards, and especially doing stained glass. She loved her family and attending any event her children and later her grandchildren participated in. She enjoyed spending time at Loon Lake and watching Gonzaga basketball.

Nelda is survived by her husband, Larry of 57 years; sons, Jim (Terri) and Brian (Jana) of Pomeroy, Brent (Shana) of Amarillo, Texas; 10 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren: Nick (Ashley) Koller and sons, Kanin and Carson; Craig Koller; Karla, husband, Phillip Luft and children, Evelyn and Jace; Darren Koller, wife Madison and son, Kolt; Dalton Koller; Darbi Koller; Jared Koller; Alyssa, husband, Mike Lehmitz and sons, Kaysen and Holden; HayLee Koller; Torrie, husband, Judah Burton; a sister, Joan Smith of Clarkston; a brother, Ron (Wiona) Watson of Hermiston, Oregon, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Monty Koller, and a sister, Evonne Seipert.

The funeral was held Monday, February 12, at the Pomeroy Christian Church. The family suggests memorials to the Pomeroy Christian Church, PO Box 699, Pomeroy, WA 99347 or the Pomeroy FFA Alumni Association, c/o Kayleen Bye, 22 Sullivan Road, Pomeroy or a charity of your choice.

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Alta Jones Still Drader

Alta Jones Still Drader passed away Monday, Jan. 29, 2018, at Memory Manor in Pomeroy, at age 97.

Clarence Robert Still and Alta were married Feb. 26, 1939. They had four children together.

Alta was well known for her beautiful gardens and wonderful cooking. She loved to can her home-grown produce, and she made wonderful pies. She liked dancing and card games, and playing the harmonica for her grandchildren.

Alta worked many years as a mail carrier to Starbuck and the Little Goose Dam, until a few years after the dam construction was complete. Alta then spent several years working at Garfield County Hospital as a housekeeper.

Her husband Clarence passed away in 1974, and several years later Alta married Everett Drader. They were later divorced.

A brother, Wayne Jones, preceded her in death. She is survived by two sisters, Lela Rovertto (Angelo) and Alene Frothinger; her four children, Bob (Mary) Still, James (Barb) Still, Peggy Baker and Linda Selders; as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Alta was a loving mother and grandmother.

A graveside service was at the Pomeroy City Cemetery.

This advertisement ran in several issues of
the East Washingtonian during November, 1979.

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Loretta Aleen (Abel) Spoonemore

Loretta Aleen (Abel) Spoonemore, 97, longtime Dayton and Pomeroy, Washington resident and recently of Pullman, passed away Jan. 12, 2018 at Regency Pullman. Aleen was born Nov. 27, 1920 in Dayton, WA the only child of Reade & Daisy (Turner) Abel. She was a descendant of Columbia County pioneers and grew up in Dayton, Bellingham and Wenatchee. She graduated from high school in Wenatchee where she was a snow skier, member of the Drum and Bugle Corps and an accomplished pairs roller-skater before locating to Pilot Rock, OR for a time.

Aleen returned to Dayton and on April 26, 1941 she married Loren Spoonemore in Pomeroy. The newlyweds then moved to Pilot Rock, Oregon (Dale) where Loren worked in the logging industry and they brought home their first two children, Loren Joel (1942) and their daughter Donna May (1944). In 1948 they returned to the Dayton area, locating off and on to Pomeroy and Prescott, Washington, where Aleen worked seasonally for the Green Giant Company. The family finally settled in Dayton where they made their final home and their youngest daughter, Kay Redene, was born in 1952.

Aleen was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and a consummate homemaker her entire life. She was a devoted woman of faith, a talented seamstress, artist, and gardener. She could do almost anything with her hands. She was always supportive of her children and grandchildren no matter where their activities led them. Through the years Aleen was active in the Rebekah Lodge, PTA, Campfire, 4-H and Cub Scouts. She was a devoted member of the First Christian Church in Dayton and Pomeroy.

She is survived by her son Joe (Sandra) Spoonemore of Pullman; her daughter Kay Nelsen (Mike Miller) of Kent, Washington; 6 grandchildren Kevin, Kim, Kerrie, Chris, Brett & Eric and 15 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Loren on Dec. 28, 1995, and a daughter Donna (Lester) Reid on August 4, 2007.

A graveside memorial service was held June 2nd, 2018, in Dayton. Kimball Funeral Home of Pullman was been entrusted with arrangements.

The family suggests memorial contributions be sent to Friends of Hospice, PO Box 484, Pullman, WA 99163 or 1067 Isaacs, Walla Walla, WA 99362. The family also thanked, in the sincerest way, the staff of Kindred Hospice and Regency Pullman for their total devotion and professional caring for our sweet mother. God bless you all.

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Edward "Dick" John Wolf

Edward "Dick" John Wolf, 93, of Pomeroy, passed away peacefully Thursday, Jan. 4, 2018. He was born in Lewiston to Frank and Elizabeth (Feider) Wolf and lived his entire life in Pomeroy.

Dick enjoyed being at the "Ranch," where he had lived since 1965. He loved being with his family and spending time with his grandchildren. He also was a true farmer at heart and he drove tractor up until his late 80s. He was a kind and gentle soul with a witty side who kept everyone on their toes. One of his favorite things to do was attending the Garfield County Fair, and he always made a point to enter as many vegetables as he could.

Dick graduated from Pomeroy High School and following that he worked on the family farm. Dick met the love of his life in Pomeroy, where she had come to teach school following college. JoAnn Ethel Lindstrom and Dick were married April 27, 1957. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary just this past year. They made their home in Pomeroy, where they had 11 children.

Dick was extremely loving and proud all of his children: Leonard Wolf of Chicago; Laura Amy of Puyallup, Washington; Cathryn Gridley and her husband, Dale, of Adams, Oregon; Rick Wolf and his wife, Selena, of Pomeroy; Jenny Salzetti and her husband, Rich, of Lake Tapps, Washington; Maria Nelson and her husband, Pete, of Walla Walla; Bob Wolf and his wife, Jessica, of Pomeroy; Mary Berger and her husband, Randy, of Lewiston; and Pat Wolf and his wife, Dawn, of Grandview, Washington. He also is survived by his wife, JoAnn; three brothers, Bill of Pomeroy, Stan and his wife, Mona, of Post Falls, Idaho, and Dennis and his wife, Beatie, of Spokane; and many loving grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Francis Christopher; three sisters, Virginia, Rosemary and Betty; two sons, Eddie and Christopher; and two grandchildren, Benjamin and Roland.

A Rosary was recited Friday, January 5, 2018, at the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Pomeroy. The funeral Mass will be held in the same location on Saturday, the 6th.

Memorials can be made to Garfield County Livestock 4-H in care of Garfield County Extension Office, P.O. Box 190, Pomeroy, WA 99347, or Pomeroy FFA Alumni in care of Kayleen Bye, 22 Sullivan Road, Pomeroy, WA 99347.

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Sam Dixon, 1938-2017

Sam was born October 23, 1938, in Pomeroy, to J. Carl Dixon and Ruth L. Dixon, the second of four children. He passed away Thursday, Dec. 28, 2017, in Pomeroy.

Sam attended Holy Rosary grade school, Pomeroy High School and Washington State College.

He married Glenda Platt in Pomeroy in 1957 and moved to the family ranch, where they raised cattle, wheat and three kids.

Past and present affiliations include Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity, Eagles, Moose, Washington Cattlemen's Association, Cattle Producers of Washington and Washington Association of Wheat Growers.

Sam enjoyed Glenda, apple pie, raising cattle, fishing Bear Creek, family get-togethers, grandkids, chasing morels and huckleberries in the Blue Mountains, basketball, shooting pool and judging pies at the Garfield County Fair.

He is survived by loving wife Glenda; sons Pat (Donna) Dixon and Matt (Molly) Dixon; daughter Bridget and Tom Burgess; grandchildren Sara and Josh Olson, Ben and Ashley Dixon, Eric and Lindsay Dixon, Kyle and Emily Dixon, Rebecca and Aaron Shelton, and Brian Burgess; great-grandchildren Carson Dixon, Smith Dixon, Harper Dixon and Jace Dixon; a sister, Lynn Inglese, in San Francisco; and a brother, Joe Dixon of Pomeroy.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents; brother James R. Dixon; and brother-in-law Leon Platt.

A rosary was held December 30, 2017, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Pomeroy, followed by a Mass of Christian burial.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Pomeroy Food Bank.

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Deborah Jean Roe

Deborah Jean Roe, 65, of Pomeroy, died Friday, October 20, 2017, at her home in Pomeroy. There was a memorial at the First Christian Church in Pomeroy on November 11. Mountain View Funeral Home of Lewiston was in charge of arrangements.

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Mary A. Schilling of Pomeroy

Mary A. Schilling, a lifetime resident of Pomeroy, passed away Monday, Oct. 16, 2017, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Lewiston. She was 66.

Mary was born Feb. 26, 1951, in Pomeroy, to Clarence A. and Cecilia (Schaefer) Schilling. She attended Holy Rosary Catholic School through the eighth grade and graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1969. She earned an associate degree from Spokane Community College in medical reception in 1971.

She worked as a medical receptionist for Dr. Shirley Richardson in Pomeroy from 1972 until Dr. Richardson retired. She then worked for the Farm Service Agency office for a few years, and then for Dr. Pakula in Lewiston until he retired. Her retirement followed shortly thereafter.

Mary attended Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Pomeroy, where she served as the organist. In recent years, she attended All Saints Catholic Church in Lewiston. She had a love of cooking and collected many cookbooks over the years. She also loved making chocolates. She was a very good bowler. She was an expert shopper, always finding exactly the right gift for each family member. Hers was a life of generous giving and she shared gifts and cards with her family and friends at every chance. She always found a way to brighten your day.

She is survived by brothers Phillip and Leonard Schilling; sister Phyllis Jardee; and close personal friend Jim Snelson. She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Charles Schilling.

Viewing was on October 19 at Merchant Funeral Home, 1000 Seventh St., Clarkston. The rosary will be recited at 10 a.m. Friday, October 20, at All Saints Catholic Church, 3330 14th St., Lewiston, followed by Mass at 10:30 a.m. Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday at the Pomeroy Cemetery.

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Rodney Lee Kimble of Pomeroy

Rodney Lee Kimble died Saturday, Sept. 2, 2017, at age 88, in Pomeroy. He was born Aug. 9, 1929, in Pomeroy, to Jake and Edna Watson Kimble.

He attended Dry Hallow, Chard and Pataha Valley schools in his elementary years. He attended Pomeroy High School, where he represented the school in boxing for four years. After graduation, he went on to attend Washington State College, where he earned his associate degree in agriculture. He then served his country in the U.S. Army, 1950-52, stationed in Germany.

Upon returning to the states, he farmed the family place under his brother, Virgil Kimble. He married JoAnn Ruark on March 1, 1953. The couple moved to the family farm near Dodge in 1955 and remained until October 1959.

Rod began his career in banking with the National Bank of Commerce, training in Richland in 1959 and moving back to Pomeroy in 1960. By 1968, he had been promoted to branch manager. The bank changed hands to Rainier Bank in 1974, and in 1975 he was promoted to branch manager of Rainier Bank in Dayton.

After several years in Dayton, he was again promoted, this time to senior loan officer of the Clarkston branch in 1979. Finally, he returned to Pomeroy as branch manager in 1983. While the bank changed hands several times over the years, ending up as Bank of America and Key Bank, Rodney was a constant fixture as a community banker until his retirement on August 1, 1994.

Rod was a lifelong member of Pomeroy First Christian Church, where he served as deacon and elder. He also served on many church committees. He was a member of Kiwanis, which became the Service Club, Pomeroy Dollars for Scholars, and Elks. He served as a volunteer for the food bank, the Garfield County Fair and the Garfield County Property Tax Assessment Board. He also was an avid fisherman, spending many leisure hours along the Tucannon River and lakes, and Pataha Creek. He enjoyed many family activities, attending events involving his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, gardening, bowling, camping, trips to the coast, playing card games and supporting Pomeroy High School athletics and school events.

He is survived by his two daughters, Kathi Howard and husband Clarence of Orofino, and Debby Waldher and husband Nick of Pomeroy; two granddaughters, JoyAnn Riley and husband Karl of Moscow, and Kara Daley and husband Mike of Kent, Washington; grandson Joe Waldher and wife Elizabeth of Pomeroy; great-grandchildren Teagan, Tamren and Trynley Riley, all of Moscow, and Daphne and Delilah Waldher of Pomeroy; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by parents Jake and Edna; wife JoAnn Ruark Kimble; and siblings Virgil Kimble, Cecil Kimble, Stella Kimble McFalls, Jimmy Kimble and Hazel Kimble Colyar.

A service was conducted on September 8 at the Pomeroy First Christian Church in Pomeroy, with the Rev. Roger Pedersen officiating. Viewing was prior to the service. Memorial donations may be given to the Pomeroy First Christian Church (310 South 8th St., Pomeroy WA 99347).

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Margaret Bell Graham of Pomeroy

Margaret Bell Graham passed away early Saturday, Sept. 2, 2017, at the Garfield County Memory Manor Nursing Home in Pomeroy. She had lived 102 years and 4 months.

Margaret was born April 20, 1915, in Spokane, to Dr. Robert Bell and Jessie Fremont Robertson Bell. Growing up, she enjoyed swimming in the many lakes in the area, golfing, singing and Camp Fire Girls. She also enjoyed trips to Ontario, Canada, to visit her many aunts, uncles and cousins, who were her father's family.

She attended school in Spokane and graduated from North Central High School. She attended Whitworth College for one year and then moved to Walla Walla, where she attended Whitman College for two years. While there, she joined the Delta Gamma sorority. One day on the tennis court she met a young farmer, Harold Edmund Graham, from the Gould City area near Pomeroy who was a Whitman alumni. It was love at first sight.

Margaret, who had been singing since she was a young girl in Spokane, was studying voice, and in order to get her degree she would have to go to Seattle for her final year. She and Harold decided they would get married and she would not finish school. So Margaret, the dentist's daughter from Spokane, became a farmer's wife.

Harold and Margaret were married Sept. 25, 1935, at her parents' home in Spokane. She began learning all the things a farmer's wife had to do. She raised a large garden and canned both vegetables and fruit. During those first 11 years she also gave birth to three little girls, Shirley, Roberta, and Anne, who also learned all those things. They too, worked in the hay fields, and drove truck, as they got old enough.

Margaret enjoyed sewing, knitting and crocheting. She made most of the girls' clothing until they were old enough to make their own. She was a member of the Gould City Home Economics Club for many years and also was a 4-H leader. She was a member of the Presbyterian Church in Spokane and attended the United Methodist Church in Pomeroy and Walla Walla. She also belonged to a number of organizations, including the Fraternal Order of Eagles Auxiliary, the Daughters of the Pioneers of Washington, the American Legion Auxiliary, the Rebekahs, P.E.O. Chapter FN of Pomeroy and Chapter CN of Walla Walla.

Due to health problems, Harold and Margaret moved to Walla Walla in the 1980s. While there, Margaret took oil painting classes and produced several very nice pictures. At the end of June 1992, Harold had a heart attack and passed away. Margaret continued to live in Walla Walla at the Odd Fellows Home until April of 2007, when she moved home to Memory Manor in Pomeroy.

She is survived by daughters Shirley (Dean) Johnson of Pomeroy, Roberta (Howard) Paulson of College Place, Wash., and Anne McClure of Hermiston, Ore.; 21 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; brother Alexander R. (Ruth) Bell; sister Roberta Bell (Hugo) Kraemer; great-grandson Nickolas Alexander Siglin; and son-in-law Robert W. McClure.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. September 30 at the Pomeroy City Cemetery. Lunch and visiting will follow. Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.

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Twila Gerber of Pomeroy

Twila Nadine Hazard was born April 19, 1949, in Pomeroy, to Russell and Elaine (Trescott) Hazard.

She graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1967, then spent some time in Spokane attending beauty school before returning to Pomeroy, where she spent the rest of her life and worked as a waitress, bartender and at the dam tagging fish.

She met and married her first love, Bill Gerber, on March 14, 1970, but they divorced in 1985. In 1987, she chose to spend the rest of her life with her second love, Wayne Feider.

Cancer took her life on Sunday, Aug. 6, 2017, at Memory Manor Nursing Home.

She is survived by her partner, Wayne, at their home; children Sondra Gerber, Brian (Michelle) Gerber of Spokane, and Ernie (Rachel) Gerber of Kalispell, Mont.; four grandchildren; siblings Vicki (Mike) Batterton of Kennewick, Wayne (Susan) Hazard of Eugene, Ore., Barbie (Andy) Street, and Carla (Bob) Street of Spirit Lake, Idaho, and Chuck (Taunja) Anderson of Leawood, Kan.; and eight nieces and nephews.

There was a celebration of life for Twila's friends and family at Maple Hall (Spinner's Hall) on August 13.

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LaMont "Monty" Koller from Pomeroy

LaMont "Monty" Koller, 55, son of Larry and Nelda Koller of Pomeroy, passed away Thursday, May 25, in Amarillo, Texas.

Born Oct. 13, 1961, in Pullman, he lived in Pullman and Lewiston for a short time before moving to a farm north of Pomeroy. He attended Pomeroy schools, graduating in 1980. Monty was active in football, basketball, baseball, 4-H and Future Farmers of America. He was a member of the second-place state basketball team in 1980 and showed the grand champion FFA market steer at the Spokane Junior Livestock show in 1980.

Monty attended Washington State University, was a member of Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity, graduating in 1984 with a degree in animal science. He went on to Mississippi State University, enhancing his degree to become a federal meat grader. Monty worked in Michigan for awhile, then went to Amarillo as a meat grader. There he became friends with a member of the Engler Family (Cactus Feeders). He was employed by Cactus Feeders in 1986, working his way up to vice president of cattle procurement, where he remained until 2011, when he then started his own business as a cattle broker which he operated until his death.

Monty met and married Shanna Doan, who also was working for Cactus Feeders, in 1988.

Monty enjoyed spending time with his family, fishing, hunting, playing cards, and sports - especially following WSU football, basketball and baseball - as well as the Boston Red Sox and Dallas Cowboys.

Monty is survived by wife Shanna; sons Darren (Madison) of Midland, Texas, and Dalton Koller; daughter Darbi of Amarillo; parents Larry and Nelda Koller of Pomeroy; brothers Jim (Terri) of Pomeroy, Brent of Amarillo and Brian (Jana) of Pomeroy; nephews Nick Koller (Ashley and their two sons, Kanin and Carson of Pomeroy), Craig Koller of Pomeroy and Jared Koller of Amarillo; and nieces Karla Luft (Phillip) and daughter Evelyn of Endicott, Alyssa Lehmitz (Mike) and son Kaysen of Pullman, and HayLee Koller and Torrie Koller of Pomeroy.

He was preceded in death by grandparents Clarence and Lottie Watson and Doris and Edwin Koller.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. July 8 at the Pomeroy Christian Church, with a dinner to follow. A family gathering will be held at a later date to spread his ashes.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a memorial to the Pomeroy Christian Church or a charity of your choice.

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Henry "Hank" Hiller from Pomeroy

Henry "Hank" Hiller passed away Saturday, June 3, 2017, from lung cancer. He was born Nov. 23, 1939, in Pomeroy, to Edward J. and Blanche C. Hiller. He graduated from Gonzaga Prep High School in Spokane in 1957, and he served with the U.S. Army in Germany from January '62 to January '65.

Henry and Lynda Myers were married Oct. 30, 1965, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Clarkston, and celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a cruise to Hawaii and back in October 2015. After a long and varied work career, Henry finally retired for good in April of 2012. They then moved to Walla Walla in July of that year.

Hank is survived by his wife, Lynda, at Walla Walla. There were no children. He also is survived by brother Jim (Lee) Hiller of Spokane; sister Barbara Carlton of Dayton, Wash.; sister-in-law Kathy Shepard of Clarkston; former brother-in-law Lee Berndt of Weippe; and nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife's parents and brother-in-law Bill Carlton.

Services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 10, at Merchant Funeral Home in Clarkston, with the Rev. Pat Wolf officiating, followed by lunch at the Moose Lodge in Clarkston. Burial will take place in the family plot at the Catholic cemetery in Pomeroy on Thursday, June 22, at 11 a.m. There will be refreshments at the Catholic School afterwards.

(Information courtesy of Merchant Memorial Group, Clarkston, and Holy Rosary Catholic Church.)

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Clarice Dye Brown

Clarice Dye Brown, 87, died on Thursday May 18, 2017, at Central Washington Hospital, Wenatchee, due to complications of congestive heart failure. She passed peacefully surrounded by her loved ones.

Clarice was born in Walla Walla, on May 26, 1929, to Clarence Earl Dirks and Doris Louise Reavis Dirks. As a young woman, she excelled on the school rifle team, participated in the Art Club, ROTC Sponsor and won numerous awards in 4-H. It was on her journey to the national 4-H competition in Chicago where she met her first love Robert Dye. With Bob, she raised four beautiful, active children and helped to run the family business. Clarice was a wonderful hostess, regularly cooking in the hot summer heat to serve a crew of over 30 people in harvest, and she was active in her community. She participated in many women’s clubs, was a Sunday School teacher and a founding member Chapter FN PEO, which she participated in for over 50 years.

After the death of her husband, Clarice married Wayne Brown, with whom she shared 35 years of love and companionship. Clarice was most happy spending time with her family at their lake cabin on Priest Lake, Idaho. Her idea of a perfect evening was to enjoy sunsets over the lake and watch the hummingbirds. A talented artist, she expressed her creativity through many different facets. She sewed, painted, stitched intricate crewel embroidery, was an expert seamstress, and arranged flowers, as well as gardened.

Clarice is remembered as a kind and giving woman by all those who met her. She never lost her sense of humor, nor her independent nature. You could always count on her to smile through any challenge. Clarice inspired those around her to hold onto those you love and to always tell them how much they mean to you. The greatest joy of her life was family and the unique gifts of each person.

Clarice is survived by her four children, Colleen Angel, Roger Dye (Mary), Carolyn Beckwith (Mike), and Rodney Dye (Desiree); her husband, Wayne Brown; step-daughters, Becky Lowry (Mike), Linda McKiernan (Eric); her older sister, Virginia Boettcher; and her grandchildren, Kevin Angel, Anna Dye, John Dye, Emilie Dye, Megan Dye, and Krista Dye. Preceded in death by Robert J. Dye; and son in-law, Millard Angel.

Arrangements are under the direction of Merchant Funeral Home in Clarkston, Washington. Memorials made to Pomeroy Methodist Church and the Pomeroy Senior Center, or a charity of your own choice.

A celebration of Clarice’s life was held at 2 p.m. on Saturday May 27, 2017, at the United Methodist Church of Pomeroy, Washington.

(Information courtesy of Merchant Memorial Group, Clarkston.)

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Don Leon Wheeler

Don Leon Wheeler passed away at Kadlec Hospital in Richland, WA on March 13, 2017. He is now joined with his wife Marion who passed away December 1, 2008. He was born March 17, in Reno, NV to Valda (Jackie) Wheeler and Dennis Wheeler. He was in the military until he met his wife Marion Louse Schell Wheeler and married her Feb. 14, 1959. He loved Karaoke and dancing but his true love was always his wife Marion and now has joined her in a peaceful place.

Don is survived by his children Jeffery Wheeler, wife Rebecca, and their children Stephanie, Jackie, Casandra, Chandler, Taylor, Emily, and grandchildren; Michelle Wheeler and her child Levi Simonson; Patti Taylor and her children Christopher, Scotty, Loraina, and grandchildren; Sister Della Sams, husband Pete, their children Vickie and Randy, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A service was held on March 28, 2017, at Richardson-Brown Funeral Home in Pomeroy.

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Paula Marie Wood

On Wednesday, March 8, 2017, Paula Marie Wood, 55, passed away at her home in Pomeroy. Paula was born Aug. 15, 1961, in Lewiston, the daughter of Dorian A. Larsen and Sherry A. Quinn. She enjoyed her grandchildren, animals and the outdoors. One of Paula's favorite pastimes was to gather her family for the weekend and head to the mountains for camping. In 1980, Paula married William A. Wood. They moved away for a short time until settling into the town of Pomeroy.

Paula is survived by her two daughters, Miranda A. Meier and Kristene M. Wood; four grandchildren; eight brothers and sisters; and a number of other relatives and close friends. A celebration of life was held on April 1, 2017, at 634 High St. on Dutch Flat Road, with services in the Pomeroy Catholic School.

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Velma Irene Rosendahl Birge

Velma Irene Rosendahl Birge, 91, passed from this life to the next, Thursday, March 2, 2017, at Libby Care Center. She was born October 25, 1925, in Vancouver, British Columbia, to Henry and Teckla Nelson Rosendahl, the younger of two daughters.

She was a long time resident of Troy, Montana, residing there with her husband, Larry Birge, who preceded her in death, September 21, 2013. Velma and Larry were married in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on October 7, 1967.

She and her husband moved to the Troy after Larry retired. They thoroughly enjoyed the many outdoor activities, fishing, hunting, camping, hiking and anything else that included the beautiful Montana outdoors. They belonged to the Rendezvous Club for many years.

Velma loved to cook, sew, worked fine embroidery, tended to her flowers and her garden as well. She loved the beautiful hummingbirds that flocked each year to her feeders on her porch deck. She also loved the squirrels that delighted her each day just outside the kitchen windows. She is much loved by her "step" children and all her grandchildren on down the line. She had the most awesome laughter. She taught her family much.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Violet, in 2012 and one stepson in April, 2016.

Survivors include 5 stepchildren, three stepdaughters, and two stepsons; 12 grandchildren and several great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren.

Visitation and services were on Saturday, March 11, 2017, in Pomeroy, Washington.

(Information courtesy of Schnackenberg & Nelson Funeral Home in Libby, Montana and Merchant Memorial Group.)

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Arlene Beale

A memorial service for Arlene V. Beale, 80, will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday at the Richardson-Brown Funeral Home in Pomeroy. Mrs. Beale passed away Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2017, in Lewiston.

She was born May 11, 1936, at Thornton, Washington, to Burdett and Lula Prince. She graduated from Rosalia High School in 1953. She also attended Whitworth College and graduated from Washington State College in 1958.

She married Raymond Beale on June 8, 1958, at Clarkston, and the couple made their home in Pomeroy, where Mr. Beale worked as a farmer and Mrs. Beale was a homemaker.

She was a member of Pomeroy United Methodist Church, where she was an organist, pianist, singer and Sunday school teacher. She also was active with the P.E.O., UMW, Daughters of Pioneers, Crankers, Garden Spade Swingers, Home Economics, and Speedster Clubs. Arlene was a devoted wife, mother, and grandma who enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. She loved the Lord and her family mightily and enjoyed sharing her musical talents. She cherished her many friendships throughout her life and was a good truck driver and excellent cook.

Survivors include her husband, Raymond Beale of Pomeroy; and sons Loren Beale (Denise) of Pomeroy and Matt Beale (Lori) of Asotin. She also is survived by grandchildren Sabrina Hasenoehrl (Kyle), Mallory Lobe (Trey), Greg, Sean, TayLyn, Bryan, Kaylissa and Isaac Beale; and great-grandchildren Halle and Haiden Hasenoehrl. She was preceded in death by her parents and her two brothers, Eugene and Hubert Prince.

Memorials may be given to the Pomeroy United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 37, Pomeroy, WA 99347; or to the Garfield County Ambulance Fund, P.O. Box 69, Pomeroy, WA 99347.

(Information courtesy of Merchant Memorial Group and Richardson-Brown Funderal Home.)

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Edith Mae Waldher

On Thursday, January 26, 2017, Edith Mae Waldher passed on from this world to find a better place to listen to her music, which can be found in the heavens. She will be deeply missed by her large circle of family.

She resided in Lewiston, but her true love was her place in the Flathead Valley, Montana, where she made a beautiful home for all her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids to visit.

She was born March 20, 1932, to Florence Vernard Jennings and John Jennings on a small farm in what was then the little town of Redmond, Washington. After graduating from Kirkland High School, she went on to pursue her education at Washington State College (University), where during a square dance she meet her soulmate, Jackson Taylor Waldher. They were married, and on their honeymoon they spent the night in Paris - Paris, Idaho, where they camped out underneath the stars. They spent more than 65 years together, celebrating their 65th anniversary on August. 28, 2016.

After they married, Edith and Jack moved into a small home in Pullman. They later moved, and Edith spent her career years working for the Selective Service and WSU while living in Moscow, where they had their five children: Mike, Cindy, Linda, Jennie and Kevin.

As a family, they enjoyed camping all around the Northwest mountains, lakes and ocean beaches. After retiring, Edith and Jack moved to their beautiful home on Jette Lake, Montana. This is where Edith enjoyed being a grandmother and was lovingly referred to as "Gramcrackers."

Along with spending time with family, Edith enjoyed quilting, tole painting, playing the piano and making cookies for everyone who visited her home. Edith was a lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars and platinum member of the WSU Alumni Association. She is survived by 18 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Even though this is a celebration, it is very hard to let her go, as she touched so many lives with her thoughtfulness.

Funeral services for Edith Mae Jennings Waldher were held on February 4 at the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Pomeroy. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America.

(Information courtesy of Merchant Memorial Group and Richardson-Brown Funderal Home.)

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Steven Crabb, formerly of Pomeroy

Steven John Crabb passed away January 18, 2017. He was 63. His funeral was held on Saturday January 28, at the Richardson Brown Funeral Home in his hometown of Pomeroy, Washington. A dinner followed.

Support can be made in honor of Steve at GoFundMe.

He was loved by many and will be forever in our hearts.

(Information courtesy of Merchant Memorial Group.)

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Eileen Lois (Petty) Weimer

Eileen Lois (Petty) Weimer passed away at Riverview Care Center, Spokane, on Monday, November 21, 2016. Eileen was born August 11, 1926, in Lewiston, to Wilbur and Pearl Petty. She was joined by a sister, Mary Ellen, a year later.

Eileen spent her childhood growing up on a farm in Anatone. She graduated from Anatone High School in 1944 and then attended Washington State College in Pullman for two years living in Stimson Hall, which was a men's dorm, because World War II was in progress.

She went to work for the American Bank and Trust Company as secretary to the bank president. During this time she met a young farmer, Howard Newton Weimer from Pomeroy. They were married in 1948 and farmed the family farm on Kuhl Ridge Road.

Eileen faced several challenges in her life. At age 14, she had a cerebral hemorrhage, where she was given a 50 percent chance of survival. She completely recovered from this illness. Then in 1949, she was one of the people to contract polio in Garfield County. She and Howard had just returned from a trip to California to celebrate their first wedding anniversary. She spent several months in rehabilitation at St. Luke's Hospital in Spokane. She had residual deficits from polio for the rest of her life. Despite these difficulties, she and Howard raised four children on the family farm.

Eileen lived in Pomeroy from 1948 to 2016, when she moved to Spokane for assisted living.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard, her sister, Mary Ellen Browne, and numerous cousins and in-laws. She is survived by her four children, Rebecca Christner and Jennifer Tuttle of Spokane, Paul and Juyne Weimer of Pomeroy, and John and Bea Weimer of Vancouver. Along with her four children, Eileen is survived by seven grandchildren, Scott Stevens of Clayton, Wash., Traci Russell and Amy Compestine of Spokane, Chad Weimer of Pomeroy, Chelsea Botts of Coeur d'Alene, Courtney Weimer-Earnest of Hayden and Michelle Whitten of Sandy, Utah. Eileen also had seven great-grandchildren.

Eileen was a member of the Pomeroy United Methodist Church. She volunteered at the church, museum, and the nursing home for several years. She also belonged to P.E.O.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the Pomeroy United Methodist, Memory Manor, or the charity of your choice.

Services for Eileen will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday (December 3) at the Pomeroy Methodist Church. A reception and dinner will be held at the Episcopal Fellowship Hall. The family would like to thank all those who showed kindnesses to Eileen during her declining years, and the 90th birthday cards.

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Ryan Blaine Foertsch (McQuary; Melvoen)

Ryan Blaine Foertsch, 53, of Pomeroy, passed away Wednesday November 9, 2016, at St Joseph Regional Medical Center in Lewiston, Idaho.

Ryan was born September 6, 1963, in Renton, Washington, to Cheryl Miller and Michael Foertsch. He was a longtime resident of Pomeroy.

Ryan is survived by his children Deanna and Steven Melvoen, mother and stepfather Cheryl and Bill Morris, father and stepmother Mike and Judy Foertsch, sisters Michelle Peterson and Lisa Howell and brother Timothy Foertsch. He also had many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Esther and Stub Miller.

Ryan enjoyed fishing, camping, and spending time in the mountains cutting wood and hunting for mushrooms. During his time in Pomeroy he worked for local farmers, notably Dave McBrearty and Gary Houser.

At his request, Ryan was cremated and there will be a private family ceremony. A celebration of life will be held at the Church of the Nazarene on December 10th at 2:00 pm and will be open to the public.

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Margaret Wolf

Margaret Frances (Buck) Wolf was born on Feb. 21, 1922, in Rhodes, Iowa. She was the first child of Frances Steward Buck and Alfred Christopher Buck. Margaret grew up in Rhodes, and in her own words, had a wonderful childhood. In high school, she played basketball and saxophone. When she finished high school, she continued her education at the University of Iowa and was a lifelong Hawkeye fan. She graduated magna cum laude, in the top 10 percent of her class, and with a Phi Beta Kappa key. She majored in English and went to Glidden, Iowa, to teach high school. She taught for two years in Glidden, and during that time she took flying lessons with the goal of joining one of the women's air force groups. Margaret owned her own car, which was pretty much unheard of back then, and she enjoyed the freedom to go where she wanted; she was quite independent.

After two years of teaching in Glidden, she was recruited to teach in Pomeroy by the superintendent of the Pomeroy schools, who was in Iowa visiting relatives. Margaret was recommended to him and he subsequently contacted her. She decided to take the opportunity and came to Pomeroy in August of 1945. Margaret and her mother drove across the country to Pomeroy on their own.

In the spring of 1946, Margaret and three of her friends drove from Pomeroy over to the coast, where they drove south on Highway 101 to San Francisco. They then cut across country to Iowa. Margaret loved telling stories of that trip and how much fun it was to share it with her friends. When she got to Iowa, Margaret announced to her parents that she was marrying Wilbur Wolf in September. So they got busy planning a wedding. Wilbur took a train east in September and on Sept. 28, 1946, Margaret and Wilbur married. After the wedding, Wilbur got to fly in an airplane for the first time when Margaret's flying instructor volunteered to fly the couple to Des Moines, Iowa, for a few days honeymoon before packing up and heading to Washington to begin their 60-year marriage.

Margaret and Wilbur raised seven children in Peola and Pomeroy. Summers were spent on the farm in Peola and when school was about to begin, the family packed up and moved to town, where she taught high school English for many years before she took over the library to finish her career. She loved working in the library as she had a lifelong love of books and reading. Margaret was an active community member as well. She was one of many community members who advocated for a Garfield County museum; once the museum was complete, she began volunteering and continued that for as long as she was capable. She was also a member of the Garfield County Historical Society, Daughters of the Pioneers, Evergreen Home Ec. Club, Holy Rosary Altar Society, PEO FN and probably others.

After Wilbur died, Margaret continued to live in the family home in Pomeroy for as long as she could, then she moved to Preferred Care in Clarkston Heights and lived there for her final years. She passed peacefully on Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2016. She is survived by all seven of her children, their spouses, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

They are Linda and Dick Bartels and their children: Rick Bartels and Grace Leaf, and Ben; Brian Bartels and his children, Brandon, Evan, Jayson and Kiersten; and Deron and Ryan Bartels; Steve and Michelle (Fitzsimmons) Wolf and their children: Chris and Kimi Wolf, their children Ryan and Alyssa; and Brooke Wolf; Janice and Gary Short and their children: Rebecca and Chad Brewer, their children, Victoria, Alexander and Elijah; Rachael Short; her children, Duncan and Tyrza Lamma; Barbara and Tim Fournier and their children: Shawn and Lana Fournier, and Dane: Tim and Kim Fournier, their children, Kendra, Victoria and Macie; Tony and Jackei Fournier, their children Isabel and Mia Margaret; Todd and Erin Fournier, their children Bradlee, Chloe, and Landon; Dorothy Wolf; Dan and Lynelle (Squires) Wolf and their children; Kelsie and Adrian Washington, their children, Sylvie, Ari and Isley; Danielle Wolf and Dennis Wagner, and their son Hudson; and Derek and Randi Wolf, their children, Blake, Rubi and Penny; David Wolf and his children: Jessica and Matt Ingersoll; and Melinda Wolf and Ryan Lipp, and their children, Ayla and Leah.

She is also survived by her two brothers, Don Buck in State Center, Iowa, and Bob Buck in California, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, etc.

Margaret's family want to thank the staff at Preferred Care for the personal, loving care they gave her. Special thanks to Mary Ann Garges and Melinda Fleming, who went above and beyond at the end. They are special.

A Funeral Mass was said at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Pomeroy, on November 12, 2016. Memorial donations can be made to either Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Pomeroy or to the Garfield County Museum.

(Information courtesy of Merchant Memorial Group.)

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Richard Hill, formerly of Pomeroy

Richard Ellis Hill, 74, passed away Friday, October 21,2016, at Santiam Memorial Hospital in Stayton, Oregon.

He leaves his wife of 52 years, Renate; his sons, Mark and Matt "Tia" and Tia's wife, Donna; his daughter, Stephanie; his brother Roger; five grandchildren; Celina, William, Taylor, Alexis, Ryan, Joshua and many close friends.

Born and raised in Pomeroy, the son of Clarence and Helen Hill, he moved to Shaw in 1978.

In his early years, Richard worked on the family farm raising wheat, milking cows and enjoying life. After graduating from Pomeroy High School in 1960, he entered the Army as a mechanic and was stationed in Hardheim, Germany, where he met his wife Renate. The were married in 1965.

Richard was a role model husband, father and grandfather who always put his family first.

Richard has a passion for cars that has been passed down to his sons and grandson. His favorite car was a '55 Pontiac.

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Barbara Gray, formerly of Pomeroy

Barbara E. Gray, 79, died October 18, 2016, in Vancouver, Washington. Barbara was bom October 6th, 1937 in Pomeroy to Edmund E. and Inez Watson Gray.

Having been born with severe physical limitations Barbara made the most of her life and was an amazing person. She played hard as a child and worked hard as an adult within the jobs developed for the physically and or mentally challenged. She was especially proud of her graduation from High School. She also learned to sew and produced some wonderful projects.

Before her passing, Barbara lived in Natalia's Adult Care facility, where she was loved by all who lived and worked there. As her family, we were so happy for the care she received there. She attended an adult day center 4 days a week, and she was able to do crafts and take part in music therapy there. Barbara had lived in the Seattle area for many years before moving to Vancouver.

Barbara is survived by her brother Edmond A. Gray (Sherry); her sisters, Cora Wohlsein (Art), Dorothy Clawson (Michael), Linda Lowe (Roger) and Christina Brown, as well as special cousin Nelson DePartee and numerous cousins, and an uncle, Lyle Watson. She loved to tease and joke with Michael. She was preceded in death by her mother, father, stepmother Mary and a brother, Walter E. Gray. There was a graveside service for Barbara at the Pomeroy Cemetery.

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Edward Huss

Edward Huss, 77, of Pomeroy, died Monday, October 17, 2016, at the Garfield County Hospital. Richardson-Brown Funeral Home of Pomeroy is in charge of arrangements.

 

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Patricia Lee (Appleford) Thornton of Anatone and Asotin

Patricia Lee was born March 14, 1939, to R. Lee and Matilda (Hendrickson) Appleford at the old White's Hospital in Lewiston. Pat joined her three sisters, Elizabeth (Swantz), Harriet (Ennis) and Rachael (Gustafson) on the family cattle and wheat ranch near Anatone on Mill Creek, where she became the little boss lady.

Pat attended Anatone School through the second grade, when her dad's health moved them to Asotin. Pat enjoyed her town life, making many new friendships. She and several girlfriends formed an exclusive club they called the River Rats, keeping those friendships to this day.

Pat married Jim Thornton on Oct. 7, 1955. Together they raised four children and returned to work the family ranch in 1960. She began cooking at Tri-State Memorial Hospital in 1976 and retired in 2004.

Pat and Jim moved to Asotin in 1980. Age was no barrier for Pat. She made and kept many friendships with the young girls she worked with. She was always there for advice and comfort.

Pat enjoyed reading, planting flowers around her home, traveling and camping in the Minnie Winnie. She also enjoyed shopping. She always knew what gift to get for you. Christmas and birthdays were always made special. Pat was an excellent cook, and everyone had a favorite meal they can remember her making. She passed surrounded by her family on Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2016.

She is survived by her husband, Jim; daughters Carrie Calkins and Becky (Wayne) Heitstuman; son Kenny (Stacey) Thornton; sister Harriet (Bill) Ennis; brother-in-law Alex Swantz; 10 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lee and Matilda; her sisters, Rae and Beth; and her son, Tod.

A celebration of life will be held at 3 p.m. Friday (October 4) at Floch Hall at the Asotin County Fairgrounds. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations be made to the Lewis-Clark Animal Shelter or the American Cancer Society.

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Shirley Williamson, formerly of Pomeroy

Shirley Williamson, 84, was reunited with the love of her life and husband of more than 50 years, Larry Williamson, in the house of our Lord on September 11, 2016.

Shirley was born the youngest of 5 girls to William and Iva Milliron on April 7, 1932, in Pomeroy. Her father worked for the railroad so her family moved often while she was growing up. They lived for a while in Pomeroy, Marengo, Walla Walla, and even homesteaded in the Tucannon for a while as a young girl. As a young adult Shirley lived in old Wallula.

It was while living there she was introduced to Larry Williamson on a blind date. They fell in love and six weeks and 2 days later were wed on August 12, 1950, in Wallula. They moved to the Tri-Cities, settling in Richland where they raised 3 children, their daughter, Pam Shelton (Ken Artz), son, Mike (Debbie) Williamson, and daughter, Teresa St. George. Shirley was a homemaker and took great pride in her family. Shirley and Larry spent many camping and fishing trips together with friends and family. Memories she always cherished. On spare weekends she liked going to yard sales, always looking for that special treasure she couldn't live without. She also truly enjoyed her beautiful yard and spent endless hours working in her many flower beds and gardens.

Shirley is preceded in death by her husband, parents, and sisters. She is survived by her three children, four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren and her four legged companion, Tiny.

At Shirley's request there will be visitation Monday, September 19, 2016 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Einan's at Sunset in Richland (915 By Pass Hwy, Richland). A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, September 20 at Sunset Gardens in Richland at 11 a.m.

(Information courtesy of Einan's Funeral Home, Richland, Wash.)

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Margaret Melquist

Margaret, aged 101, passed away on Sept 7, 2016, at Memory Manor in Pomeroy.

Margaret was born on March 25, 1915, to Harry R. Porter and Harriett Hasbrouck Porter in Vancouver, Washington. She graduated from Oregon State University in 1938.

Margaret married Ralph Donald Melquist on July 28, 1940. They lived in Tacoma where they had three children and were very involved at the Sixth Avenue Baptist Church. When the children were all in school Margaret taught at Lincoln High School for 21 years. She retired in 1977 but continued sewing almost every day and kept scrapbooks with photos and fabric swatches of the hundreds of quilts, banners and projects she so lovingly made for all of us.

Margaret is survived by her daughter Carla Heytvelt of Pomeroy and her daughter-in-law Miriam Melquist of Auburn, Washington, 12 wonderful grandchildren and 15 beautiful great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Ralph, daughter Mary Jane Nelson and her son Donald Porter Melquist.

Memorial services will be held at the First Christian Church in Pomeroy on Oct 15 at 11:00 am and in Tacoma Oct 21st at 2:00 pm at Mountain View Funeral Home.

Information courtesy of Merchant Memorial Group.

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Richard "Rich" N. Cutler, formerly of Pomeroy

Richard "Rich" N. Cutler passed away after a brief illness on August 23, 2016, at the Spokane Veteran's Home in Spokane.

Richard was born in Colfax to Lola and Howard Cutler on July 20, 1934. He was raised as a farm kid on the family ranch on the Palouse River near Endicott, Wash. He loved raising animals and was active in 4-H and FFA. Rich attended all 12 years of school in Endicott graduating from Endicott High School in 1952 where he played football.

Rich was stationed in Korea while serving in the US Army. After the military, he worked for a rancher in Pomeroy, demonstrated and sold pancake mix for Krusteaz in Seattle, worked on Eddie Bauer's jeep while employed at a gas station in Moses Lake, was a tool maker for North American Aviation building the B-70 in California, and worked at Union Iron Works in Spokane before returning home to Whitman County. He worked for Palouse Producers in Colfax for several years and retired from St. John Hardware in St. John after keeping farmers' equipment working in the fields for many harvests.

He served as the mayor of Endicott and retired from the St. John Volunteer Fire Department.

Rich is survived by a brother, Everett Cutler of Colfax; a sister, Shirley Cutler of Palmdale, Cal., his wife of 53 years, Francine Cutler of Endicott; and their children, Elizabeth (Rick) Lally of Valleyford, Wash., Rebecca (Joe) St. John of Tekoa, Wash., and Jeffrey (Sheri) Cutler of Broken Arrow, Okla., grandchildren: Erin Lally (Donovan Suko), Scott St. John (Janae) of Asotin, WA, Brenna VanDalsen (Brandon) of Tekoa, WA, Hannah Lally (Donnie Frazee) of New River, Ariz., and Brad Cutler of Bozeman, Mont., two great-grandchildren and numerous nieces. He is also survived by two children from a previous marriage, Connie Miller and David Cutler and their four children.

Richard enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren while they participated in various sports and activities. He loved to go fishing and camping with family and friends. Rich loved animals and was especially fond of anything with an engine and wheels. He was always ready with a helping hand for anyone who needed it. His family's favorite memories are of the gag gifts Richard liked to receive and give at Christmas. Rich enjoyed joking and laughing with his family and many friends who will greatly miss him.

A Memorial to celebrate Richard's life was held on August 30, 2016, at Trinity Lutheran church in Endicott, Wash., after a private burial at the Endicott Cemetary.

Memorials can be made to the Union Gospel Mission or the St. John - Endicott School Foundation.

(Information courtesy of Bruning Funeral Home of Colfax, Wash.)

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Dorothe Newton, formerly of Pomeroy

Dorothe Newton was born in Pomeroy, on June 19, 1919, to Matilda Weimer and Adam Rubenser.

She was one of three children, her brother and sister being Cecil and Bernice Rubenser.

Active in school basketball, musicals and tap dancing, she graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1938. She excelled in swimming and diving including the 20’ high dive tower. She was a familiar figure at the local pool where she worked as a lifeguard to earn her season ticket. On a dare from her older brother she once swam the width of the Snake River near Lewiston. After that, she did it for fun. “Showing the world she could” became a lifelong habit.

In late 1943, she married Richard H. “Smokey” Newton in Glendale, Calif. ‘Smokey’ was in the Coast Guard during the war and they were stationed in San Francisco through VJ Day where she vividly remembered the overturned streetcars and general exultation and mayhem that ensued.

Dorothe and ‘Smokey’ produced two offspring, Michael, and his sister Robyn. After an eventful and interesting marriage, they parted ways in 1955.

Dorothe was a self sufficient and independent woman before there were many role models to follow. As the need presented itself, she simply made her way forward and was proud not to have been beholden to anyone, including the state. She enjoyed her years working at the Zink General Store, the Walla Walla Elk’s Lodge and then, for more than two decades at the Walla Walla Country Club where she became a well-loved and highly skilled mixologist. Dorothe took as much pride in making a perfect martini as someone might have in painting a beautiful landscape.

She was a survivor. One of her greatest life challenges came with a massive case of Guillain-Barré Syndrome at age 44, accompanied by the doctor’s ominous prognosis of 2 weeks left to live. She simply said “Well, I CAN’T die. I have my children.” After almost a year in the hospital, she managed to stand, walk and eventually, to work again.

A second such challenge came at age 69. She was diagnosed with inoperable colon cancer that had spread throughout her body. The unanimous prognosis of “90 days to live,” from two cancer centers, was rejected by Dorothe and following that lifelong habit, she “showed the world she could,” and lived on for another healthy 28 years, much to the consternation of her doctors.

In later years, Dorothe became a member of the board of directors at the Walla Walla Senior Center where she was also an avid player of Bridge and always loved to bid a slam. Other later-in-life activities included Muddy Frogwater square dancers, the Happy Hoofer’s tap group and being a participant in Senior Center aerobics. She also enjoyed her rose and vegetable garden.

Dorothe enjoyed her travels to Banff, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, China, the Bahamas, and Hawaii. While life sometimes required of Dorothe that she be tough as nails, her latent sweetness was never far away. While not much for organized religion, she did believe in God, and her heart was open to the Spirit. She passed quietly from this life, at peace in her own home, just “showing the world she could,” one last time.

Dorothe was pre-deceased by her parents; and her dear brother, Cecil. She is survived by her son, Michael of Baker City, Ore.; her daughter, Robyn of Walla Walla; her sister, Bernice Novell (Donald) of Port Hueneme, Calif.; two grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, and two nephews and a niece.

At Dorothe’s request there was no funeral. Memorial contributions can be made to Walla Walla Senior Center, 720 Sprague, Walla Walla WA 99362.

(Information courtesy of Herring-Groseclose Funeral Home, Walla Walla)

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Gerald van Ausdle

Gerald Leroy Van Ausdle, 92, passed away of congestive heart failure Sunday, Aug. 21, 2016, at Memory Manor Nursing Home in Pomeroy.

Gerald was born Dec. 9, 1923, to Oscar and Cleora Van Ausdle in Pomeroy. He was an only child, but you could never tell his mom he was spoiled.

Gerald was in the U.S. Navy two years, eight months and 27 days in World War II as a machinist 2nd class, maintaining the steam engine. He made $116 a week and said he saved up more money at that time than he ever did in his whole life. After returning back home, he went into the carpentry business with his dad, although he truly wanted to be a farmer. He is and was always a true farm boy at heart. In 1986, they sold the latest house he built in town to finally live on a few acres to farm, raise cattle and enjoy his horses.

In 1946, Gerald met a new, young school teacher who had come to town. Apparently, there was some competition, but he eventually won her heart and married Bonita Robinson on Nov. 22, 1947.

Gerald and Bonnie raised two sons and two daughters: Kim Van Ausdle, Joe (Sue) Van Ausdle and Chris Ankney, all of Pomeroy, and Carol (Mike) Whittaker of Clarkston. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren, Dana (Bryce) Newell, Dru (Brooke) Van Ausdle, Lara (Scott) Hagerman, Natalie (Scott) Urbiha, Ryan (Ronda) McGreevy, Hope (John) Carroll, Jacob Whittaker and Brielle (Brandon) Oswalt; 13 great-grandchildren, Ava and Layton Van Ausdle, Alex, Kitiara and Katrina Hagerman, Brooks, Chase, Kinsey and Kaycie Urbiha, Caitlin and Braden McGreevy, Elisabeth and Ben Carroll.

Gerald gave all of himself and more for the love and well being of his family. His family always came first. He was well known in the community for his humble and kind disposition. Gerald left his handprint on Garfield County, whether it was grain bins, houses, remodeling a kitchen or bathroom or as simple as repainting a white picket fence. Throughout Pomeroy and Garfield County, no matter what street or road you drive, you will find that Gerald has left his legacy. Gerald dedicated his life to living with a purpose, giving his best effort and being proud of the outcome.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Cleora; his wife, Bonnie; sons-in-laws Bill McGreevy and Jack Ankney; and stepgrandson Jayson Ankney.

Memorials may be made in his name to the Pomeroy Ambulance Fund, care of Diane Koller, 3102 Kirby Mayview Road, Pomeroy, WA 99347; or Senior Round Table Nutrition Program, to be used in Garfield County, P.O. Box 23, Pomeroy, WA 99347.

Services were Friday, September 2, at Richardson Brown Funeral Home, 750 Columbia St., Pomeroy, followed by a lunch at the Episcopal Church at 710 High St.

(Information courtesy of Richardson Brown Funeral Home, Pomeroy, and Merchant Memorial Group.)

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Johnny P. Custodio

Johnny P. Custodio, 70, of Pomeroy, died Saturday, Aug. 20, 2016, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Lewiston. Mountain View Funeral Home in Lewiston is in charge of arrangements.

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Erma "Jean" Greeley, formerly of Pomeroy

Erma "Jean" Greeley was born in Pomeroy Washington on March 22, 1927 to Edward and Velma Young.

She graduated from Pomeroy High school where she was actively involved in drama, track, and was most notably a band drummer. She attended Northwest College in Seattle and later completed a bachelor's degree in counseling at Eastern Washington University in 1978, graduating with honors. In 1945, she met the love of her life Everett Greeley who was honorably discharged from the army, and they married August 9, 1947. They called Spokane their home for 67 years until earlier this year when they moved to the Sacramento area to be closer to their family.

She is survived by her husband Everett, daughter Camela Maier of Gold River, California, sister Betty Schumacher of Clarkston, in addition to 10 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. She entered God's presence while in her home, surrounded by her loving family on August 17, ten days after suffering a massive stroke. She is preceded in death by two sons, Michael and Stephen.

A burial service was held August 24, at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, California. Jean will be remembered for her graciousness and extension of love to those in need.

A memorial service in her honor will be held Saturday, September 24th at 10:00 am, Valley Assembly of God Church, 15618 E. Broadway in Spokane Valley.

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Andy Saylor

Samuel Andrew "Andy" Saylor died August 13,2016, at home with his family around him at the age of 100. He was born August 6,1916, at Sunset, Washington to Lilburn Leland "Bill" Saylor and Julia Elizabeth Hilbert. He moved with his family from Sunset to Pomeroy while still a child. He graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1936 and was honored at the Pomeroy Pioneer Days for his 80th class reunion.

He married Norma Jean Sanford on May 11,1942, and they farmed at Hay for 37 years before retiring to Colfax. They later made their home in Walla Walla where they enjoyed many years of golfing.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Norma; a son, Tim; both parents and brothers Claude, Elwood, Wilbur, and sisters Carrie and Frances. He is survived by his sister Lillian Brody of Cheyenne, Wyo., daughter Rosemarie (Dick) Ames of Spokane Valley, grandson Shane (Jwanita) Ames, Spokane Valley, granddaughter Shannon (Travis) Billigmeier of Cheney and great grand­daughters Madison Billigmeier and Sidney Billigmeier plus nieces and nephews.

He enjoyed golfing into his 99th year before moving to Spokane to be near family. He thoroughly enjoyed his 100th birthday celebration with many of his nieces, nephews, and family friends. He was dearly loved and will be greatly missed.

Family graveside services will be held at a later date. Burial is in the Dayton Cemetery next to his wife and son.

(Information courtesy of Hennessey Funeral Home & Crematory, Spokane Valley)

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Harriet Jackson Cummings, formerly of Pomeroy

Harriet Jackson Cummings died August 4, 2016, at Kennewick. Harriet Jackson was born December 20, 1921, on the family ranch located at Dry Hollow southwest of Pomeroy, Garfield County, Washington. The daughter of Albert and Christine (Moran) Jackson, she joined a family of two sisters and one brother.

Harriet attended Jackson Country School and graduated from Pomeroy High School. She attended Cheney Normal School (Eastern Washington University) before her marriage to Harold William Keatts in February, 1941, in Pomeroy, Washington. Harriet had four children in this relationship which ended in divorce in 1949.

Harriet married Henry J. Cummings in September, 1951. They farmed briefly at Pomeroy before moving to Mesa to take up a farm in the Columbia Basin Irrigation Project. For twenty years Harriet helped farm, drove school bus, baked pies for a restaurant and became a dietician for North Franklin School District at Connell. She was an active person who enjoyed gardening, preservation of food, various mediums of art including oil painting, china painting, quilting, and making wedding cakes. She also made annual treks to Camp Wooten on the Tucannon River to cook for 4-H camp and other organizations. Harriet enjoyed picking huckleberries at Mt Adams and fishing. She moved to Kennewick with her husband in 1974 and helped build a new house, which became the family home for twenty years.

Harriet and her husband were active volunteers in the Tri-Cities for numerous organizations. They received the United Way Distinguished Volunteers of the Year in 1995. Harriet was a member of Kennewick Valley and Benton County Pomona Granges, Daughters of the American Revolution, Kennewick Hospital Auxiliary, Central United Protestant Church, and other social organizations. Harriet was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Henry Cummings, sons James Ray Keatts and Wesley James Keatts, sisters Helen Kimble and Hazel Jolley and brother Howard Jackson. She is survived by her sons, William (Karen) Keatts of Kennewick, and Robert (Linnea) Keatts of Walla Walla, eight grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews and an endless circle of friends.

At her request there was no funeral, but a memorial service will be announced at a later date. Contributions in her memory may be directed to a charitable organization of one's choice or to Tri-Cities United Way.

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Mike "Mikie" Burke

Michael Leonard "Mikie" Burke, 28, of Pomeroy, passed away Friday, July 29, 2016.

Mikie was born Dec. 19, 1987, in Lewiston, to Doug and Coni Burke. He grew up and spent most of his life in Pomeroy. Mikie graduated from Pomeroy High School in 2006. He briefly lived in Spokane and in Portland, Ore.

Mikie has had various jobs working in construction and the grain industry. Most importantly, he tried getting his certified nursing assistant license to work with and take care of people. Mikie had a big heart for everyone and everything. He especially loved his nieces and nephews, Sammy, Jeremy, Isabel, Francis and Jamison. He would always take Francis out and teach him the ropes with his punching bag. Mikie loved anything boxing. He was training for an amateur fight this fall. He also really enjoyed baseball. He played all four years in high school.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Coni Burke, and grandparents Gloria and Jim Burke and Leonard and Agnes Herres.

He is survived by his dad, Doug Burke, and brothers Scott and Cory Burke.

Graveside services were August 5 at the Pomeroy Public Cemetery followed by a celebration of Mikie's life at the Pomeroy Golf Clubhouse.

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(Shelvin) Jack Cash

Jack Cash left us on Thursday, July 28, 2016. He was born July 21, 1926, in Shelley, Idaho, the son of Violet and Guy Cash.

Jack grew up on the pro rodeo circuit during the Depression years, traveling with his parents as far as New York City. He lived his childhood years in White Bird and graduated from Grangeville High School in 1944. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and saw action in the Pacific Theater during the closing months of World War II. Post-war years found him in Nezperce, where he married Loretta Lux and raised his family for the next 35 years.

Jack was an engineer on the Nezperce railroad, and farmed and ranched on the Camas Prairie until moving to Pomeroy in 1984. He was an avid hunter and golfer and enjoyed worldwide travels with friends from Pomeroy, especially Mrs. Orleatha Gasseling.

He is survived by his brother, Guy Cash Jr. of St. George, Utah; a son, Jim Cash of Los Angeles; a daughter, Mariam Weill of Cocolalla, Idaho; as well as seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Jack was preceded in death by his wife, Loretta; and son Ron Cash of Nezperce.

Funeral services were held on Friday, August 5, 2016, at Holy Rosary Church in Pomeroy. A graveside service was Saturday afternoon, August 6, Saturday at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Nezperce.

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Marilyn A. Bowles

Marilyn A. Bowles, 83, of Pomeroy, passed away Tuesday, July 26, 2016, at Garfield County Hospital. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 10, at the First Christian Church.

Marilyn was born on February 26, 1933. She was the daughter of William (Hauley) Huyette, who opened the Kozy Korner Cafe and Service Station in Pomeroy in 1950.

Memorials may be made in Marilyn's name to the Garfield County Food Bank.

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Larry R. Bowles

Larry R. Bowles passed away Wednesday, July 20, 2016, at his home in Pomeroy. He was 63 years old.

Larry was born to Virgil and Juyne Bowles of Pomeroy. He grew up in Garfield County on the family farm. He graduated from Pomeroy High School and attended Northwest Nazarene College.

Larry married his beloved wife, Susie, on March 18, 1978. They were married for 38 years. They have two girls, Heather and Erika.

Larry worked for the East Washingtonian as a printer and ad salesman prior to becoming a deputy for the city of Pomeroy Police Department. He then worked for the sheriff's department as a deputy and was promoted to undersheriff. Larry was Garfield County sheriff from 1993 to 2010, at which time he retired because of a job-related injury.

As a result of his love of music and dancing, he was well-known as the "Singing and Dancing Sheriff." He and Susie spent many weekends dancing with friends and taught country dance lessons for years. Larry was an avid outdoor sportsman. He loved hunting, fishing, camping, and four-wheeling with family and friends. He was always participating and/or leading and organizing numerous activities in Pomeroy and across the state demonstrating his love for the community and its people.

Larry was preceded in death by his mother, Juyne Bowles; grandmother Iva Hender; and grandfather Calvin Hender.

He is survived by his father, Virgil; brother Gary; and sisters Lori and Vickie and their families. The memorial was held at 1 p.m. Monday, July 25, at the Pomeroy Nazarene Church. Donations may be made in Larry's honor to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

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John B. Thornton, formerly of Pomeroy

John B. Thornton was born in Springfield Ohio to Ruth and Chester Thornton on January 13, 1935 and went to be with our Lord & Father on July 11, 2016. He was known by his family and friends as "Bernie".

John is survived by his devoted loving wife Pamela Thornton and his sons John, Craig, Bret, and Rex Thornton, his sister Joanne Vaughn and 5 grandchildren and great grandchildren.

John was preceded in death by his son Jeff Thornton of Ohio.

John graduated from Pomeroy High School class of 1954 and attended Athens College in Ohio. He joined the Navy after he graduated High School in 1954 - 1958 and dedicated four years into the service. He fought for our freedom in the Lebanon War. He then joined the Army in 1959 - 1963 where he was stationed in Germany. In 1963 he enrolled in the University of St. Louis and graduated in the class of 1966 receiving his degree in Electrical Engineering .

John met his wife from England through a pen pal club in 1967. A year later John proposed to Pam by letter and went to England to meet her for the very first time. They were married February 2, 1968.

John continued to work as an electrician and started his family owned business locally known in Skagit Valley as Bernie's Electric which became Thornton Electric in the 80's. He taught three of his sons about his trade and they are now electricians.

A warm hearted man who loved to talk about his days in the service, his work and tell jokes and make others laugh. He will be greatly missed by all, but this isn't goodbye, it's see you later.

A memorial Service was held Thursday, July 21, 2016, in Mount Vernon, Washington.

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Shirley Andersen

Shirley Louise (Elwood) Andersen left her earthly home for a heavenly one on July 1, 2016 with family at her side at Colonial Court (Spokane Valley). She was born in Del Piedra, Cal. to Andrew E. and Dorothy Elwood on June 16, 1929, and grew up on the family ranch in the foothills of the Sierras east of Fresno. She attended Reedley JC, Fresno State, and UC Davis becoming a teacher of Home Economics at several schools. Some favorite remembrances are driving cattle to the mountains with her father and brother in the spring and working summers at Sequoia National Park and Squaw Valley, California. Shirley married Richard Andersen on July 8, 1952.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Richard (passed January 1, 2011), whom she has missed for five and a half years. They lived in Pomeroy for 50 years until Shirley moved closer to family in Spokane Valley at Colonial Court for the last two years. They are survived by sons: Brad (Colombe), Wayne (Patti), and Rick; grandsons Paul and Kris; granddaughter Becca (Bo).

They enjoyed travel by motorcycle and RV for many years after retiring and spent much time in support of the VFW and Auxiliary in Pomeroy. They also attended Pomeroy Christian Church.

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Elizabeth Maynard Francisco Bergdahl, formerly of Pomeroy

Elizabeth Maynard Francisco Bergdahl, a native of Washington State and long-time resident of Richland, Washington, died on June 9th, 2016, at Twin Falls, Idaho, where she had lived near her son Roger and daughter-in-law Susan since 2005. She was 103 years old. Betty was born on October 18, 1912, to Clifton Canfield Francisco and Adele Maynard Crane Francisco and grew up on her family's wheat and cattle ranch near Pomeroy with her brother Edward and three sisters Myra, Antoinette, and Rosemary.

In 1935 she was graduated from Washington State College as a dietician. She was a member of Mortar Board National College Senior Honor Society, Pi Beta Phi Sorority, and enjoyed an active student life. Betty was a traveler from an early age, crossing the USA by steam train when she was 12 years old. She continued to love travel throughout her life. After graduation from WSC, she worked in New York City and returned to the West by ship via the Panama Canal to California where she worked with Clark Gable as a secretary and at Metro Golden Meyer before moving back to Spokane.

Betty married fellow WSC student, Clyde R. Bergdahl in 1940, and they were married for 58 years until Clyde's death in 1998. They moved to Richland in 1943 when Clyde joined the war-time efforts at the Hanford Atomic Project. Richland was a burgeoning community of families from all over America, and here Betty's skills in organization and community building were valuable and contributed to the healthy growth of this vibrant expanding township. She was an active member of the Parent Teacher Association, became a willing Boy Scout and Brownie Leader, a committed member of the Community Concert Association, Richland Players, and Richland Light Opera. She was an active member of the Central United Protestant Church where she taught Sunday school; she and Clyde were tireless fund raisers, often coordinating the yearly Chili Nights and Spaghetti Suppers.

Betty was the Director of the C.U.P. Co-operative Pre-School for 15 years until she retired in 1978. She touched the hearts of so many children and their families and is remembered by them with deep love and respect. After her retirement, she volunteered as a telephone crisis support counselor for Contact Tele-ministries. Betty had many interests. She enjoyed her life on the Columbia River. She enjoyed swimming with her family and friends, Betty played with her Bridge Club for 50 years, and she was a keen vegetable and flower gardener and a skilful homemaker. She allowed her children great freedom and always encouraged their independence. Her children warmly remember the great camping and skiing trips that were a regular part of their family life.

Once Clyde and Betty retired, they continued to enjoy travelling the world. Even in her 80's Betty was climbing onto glaciers in Iceland and riding buses across Patagonia. She loved to ski and still rode the weekly ski bus to Mission Ridge until she was 85 years old. Betty was a friend to many people and enjoyed an active social life in Richland for over 60 years. She was a member of PEO Chapter FK, her Book Club, and the Merry Widows and, of course, her own dear neighborhood of friends on Gaillard Place and Hunt Avenue where she lived until she was 93 years old. Betty was drawn to the road of high adventure. She met life's challenges with the grit and determination of her pioneering heritage. She inspired both young and old with her willing attitude, her fitness and health, with her enthusiasm to be a ready participant in her own life. She was one of the "best sports" you could hope to meet. Betty was a devoted mother and a beloved grandmother and great-grandmother.

She is survived by her three sons, Crane Bergdahl, Robert Bergdahl, and Roger Bergdahl; and her daughter, Janet Elizabeth Bergdahl Poulsen; and their partners and families including many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

There will not be services at this time. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.

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Mary Ann McKeirnan

Mary Ann McKeirnan passed away June 6, 2016, in Pomeroy. She was born July 12, 1930, in Montgomery, Minn., to Frank and Mary (Janouch) Filipek. In 1952 she came to Pomeroy (God’s Country, as she called it) to work as a secretary for Green Giant. She married Daniel J. McKeirnan on May 1, 1954. She was a precise and meticulous bookkeeper for the farm and home. She was a fabulous cook and extraordinary seamstress. Dan and Mary Ann were blessed with eight children. Her children and grandchildren were a source of great pride and joy.

Mary Ann was a member of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church and Altar Society, VFW Auxiliary and was a secretary for Lifeline for years. Through the years Mary Ann taught religious education and was a 4-H leader in addition to supporting her children by attending their many school and sporting events.

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her mother and father; her husband Dan of 44 years; daughter, Julie; brothers, Bobby, Lou and Gene; and sisters, Marlene and Aggie Richter. Mary Ann is survived by her daughters, Rose Mary (Stan) Gray, Teresa, Margaret, and Katy (Brian) Wood; her sons, Pat, Dan (Tammy) and Joe (Sharon); her sister, Evalyn Berg; brother, Jim Filipek; and 15 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mary Ann will be remembered for her strong faith and beliefs, her unwavering love and pride in her family and her generosity in sharing her many creative talents with family and friends.

Memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice. The Rosary was recited at 7 p.m. Friday, June 17, at Holy Rosary Church in Pomeroy. Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 18, at the church in Pomeroy.

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Donald F. Fairbairn

Donald Fredrick Fairbairn was born on Sept. 4, 1931, in Aberdeen, Wash. He passed away on May 13, 2016, in Pomeroy, Wash., following a brief illness.

He attended Aberdeen schools, was a champion swimmer and graduated in 1949 from Weatherwax High School.

He spent four years in the U.S. Navy as a submariner.

In 1952, he married Darlene Frick; she died in 1973. He married his wife Norma in 1975.

Donald was a history teacher and swim coach in Port Angeles for many years; later retiring to Pomeroy where he coached as well. He was an avid stamp collector.

He was preceded in death by his parents John “Bus” and Louise Fairbairn; his first wife Darlene; sister Billie McDonald and granddaughter Shay Youngblood. He is survived by his wife Norma; sons Bill Fairbairn and Mark Williams; daughters Linda Gonzalez and Adrienne Buchannen; sister Mary “Skooter” Scherieble; seven grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren.

At his request, there were no services.

The family suggests memorial donations be made to the Pomeroy Swim Team at P.O. Box 950, Pomeroy, WA 99347.

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Wesley James Keatts, formerly of Pomeroy

Wesley James Keatts was born 14 June 1943 at Pomeroy, Washington; son of Harold W. and Harriet (Jackson). Keatts passed away 13 May 2016.

Wesley attended Pomeroy Elementary school through the third grade then moved to Mesa Washington. He graduated from Connell High School and attended Columbia Basin College. Wesley always maintained a strong work ethic. He worked for farmers in the basin and near Pomeroy. He began a career with Boise Cascade mill at Wallula in 1968 and retired from the mill after 37 years.

In 1966 Wesley married Judy McKinney of Lewiston, Idaho. They had three children together. In 1986 he married Betty Goody at Pasco. Wesley was a craftsman, artist and shop putterer all of his life. He worked with wood, metal, stone, and leather. Wes created furniture, birdhouses, wooden rocking horses, belts, coat racks, garden sculptures, spear points, knives and arrowheads. Together, Wes and Betty created some of the best smoked sausage, pepper sticks and smoked salmon. He was a real Mr. Fix-it and true genius when it came to thinking up things to make for his family at Christmas time.

Wesley is survived by his wife Betty, three children; Becky (Jamie) Huminsky, Shauna Keatts, and Darin Keatts, step children; Craig (Barb) Goody, Dean (Judy) Goody, Bill (Sheila) Goody, Terry (Kay) Goody, Melinda (Chris) Pace, fourteen grandchildren, and three great grandchildren; two brothers, William (Karen) Keatts and Robert (Linnea) Keatts, and his mother Harriet (Jackson) Cummings. He was preceded in death by his father Harold William Keatts, brother James Ray Keatts and step father, Henry Cummings. Wes requested no funeral service be held.

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Mary Helke

Mary Amelia Helke (Sitzberger) was born September 19, 1924. She married Pete Helke who passed away on February 14, 2016. They were married for 70 years.

She worked side by side with her husband Pete at Pete's Pill Box in Spokane for many years while raising five children. They retired to Pomeroy in 1979.

She is survived by four children, Michael (Jeanne), Peter, Mary (Wayne) and Rose. She was preceded in death by a son, Steve.

In her last days of life she played her harmonicas. Because of her love of music she continued to play her harmonicas and sing while enjoying her sippy of Red Rose.

Services were held April 12, at Holy Rosary Church in Pomeroy.

(Information courtesy of Merchant Funeral Home, Clarkston.)

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Dave Geiger

On Aug. 3, 2015, Lester David Geiger went to be with the Lord. He fought a good battle against cancer. He will be forever remembered as a hard-working and kind man. Just don't get him started on politics! He spent all but four years of his life in Pomeroy, while he was serving his country in the United States Marine Corps. He returned to Pomeroy to continue working the family farm. He later went into the mechanic and auto parts business. He retired a few years ago and enjoyed gardening, reading the paper, watching sports and taking road trips. He had several community projects he volunteered for and made generous donations to charities. He was a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Irene Geiger, and brother-in-law Peter Morse.

He is survived by his son and daughter, Buck and Jean Geiger; his brother, Rick (Sandy) Geiger; his sisters, Kathy Morse and Dwyla (Ed) Fruh; his stepson and stepdaughter, John Sorweide and Laura (Paul) Canter; and his grandchildren, Kara Sorweide, Carmen (Cody) Glasgow, Jessica (Josh) Cornwell, Jenna Canter, Kenny Sorweide and Mesa Friend; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A rosary was held on August 7, 2015, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Pomeroy and the funeral Mass wwas celebrated on Saturday, August 8, at the church.

(Information courtesy of Richardson-Brown (Merchant Memorial Group), Pomeroy, Wash.)

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Nancy Jean Herres

Nancy Jean Herres, age 66, passed away Sunday, June 7, 2015, in Pomeroy.

The daughter of Lloyd (Bill) and Mary Keller Evanson, she was born Jan. 31, 1949, in Pomeroy. She graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1967 and graduated from Florist Design School in Denver in 1968.

A lifelong resident of Pomeroy, she married Thomas Herres on April 15, 1972. Together they raised two beautiful children. Over the years Nancy had several jobs, whether it be cooking for the farm crew, acting as bookkeeper for the local hospital or working at the local flower shop. She was also a lifelong friend and employee of Pat and Carol Wernecke, owners of Pat and Carol's Food City in Pomeroy. Nancy was a 50-year member of Job's Daughters and the Order of Eastern Star and honored queen in May 1966.

Nancy had a special way of doing things. Everything she did, she did with style. She was an amazing cook and cake decorator. She was known far and wide for her amazing deviled eggs and thought nothing of putting together a batch of 10 dozen at a time. Nancy always had a batch of friendship bread proofing on the counter as well as a loaf ready for her next visitor. She loved to dance and laugh, but most of all, she loved to take care of her family.

Nancy is survived by her husband, Thomas Herres; her son, Reed Herres and Kristene Wood (daughter-in-law); daughter Marni Herres; her three grandchildren, Mason, Laynee and Kylee; her sisters, Billie Johnson of Spokane Valley, Wash., and Jenness Evanson; as well as her large, loving extended family.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two siblings, sister Marilyn Kimble and brother John Evanson.

Services were held June 12 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Pomeroy. Lunch followed at Holy Rosary Catholic School. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to HUGS (Garfield County Hospital Auxiliary), 66 N. Sixth St., Pomeroy, WA 99347; or Tri-State Memorial Hospital Foundation, P.O. Box 636, Clarkston, WA 99403.

Nancy's final ride will be done in honor of how she embraced life: with style, cruising in her cherry-red Chevrolet HHR listening to Jimmy Buffett's "Margaritaville."

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Dennis Reed Gillis

Dennis Reed Gillis, a long-time resident of Pomeroy, passed away on May 5, 2015.

Dennis was born in Blackfoot, Idaho, in 1940. He was almost exactly 75 years old. He is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years, Judy, three children and one son-in-law, three grandchildren, three sisters, one brother and his mother of 97 years.

In remembering his youth, Dennis spoke of living in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Walla Walla. He would talk about giving his young siblings piggyback rides and loving to work at a movie theater, where he could watch movies for free. As a young adult, he served in the United States Army. While attending Washington State University, he became close friends with Paul Miller, through which he met his future wife.

Dennis was married to his loving wife, Judy, in 1965. He and his wife built their own house. They lived in Pomeroy for over 40 years, raising their children and participating in the community. Dennis worked at Pomeroy High School and enjoyed educating and counseling students in many subjects. He was an avid advocate for teaching and helping others learn about using computers. Dennis earned a Bachelor of Arts in Industrial Arts and a Master of Science in Vocational-Technical Education. He held emergency medical technician instructor certification, and passed the state Supreme Court requirements allowing him to become judge without being a lawyer.

Everyone who came in contact with Dennis saw he was a brilliant man with knowledge in many areas. He was always willing and able to help with challenges: be it technology, legal needs, medical needs or a household repair.

He had many close friends, who will miss him deeply, and were at his side, often, during good and difficult times.

Dennis was a member of the Pomeroy City Council and treasured the time he spent helping to improve the community. Dennis earned many awards for his skills in education and community work. He enjoyed spending time working at the school, working on the police reserve, gunsmithing, reading, watching science fiction movies, educating himself, working on Apple computers, building and repairing, helping others, attending church, chatting with his family and friends and playing with his grandchildren.

Dennis, Dad, Grandpa: caring, wise and brave; we will miss you so.

A funeral service was held at the Richardson-Brown Funeral Home in Pomeroy on May 13, 2015, followed by burial at the Pomeroy City Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Dennis' name to the Ankylosing Spondylitis, Parkinson's or Alzheimer's foundations; or Pomeroy United Methodist Church.

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George Hattell

George Ralph Hattell passed away on April 17, 2015. He was a man well known to the Pomeroy and Spokane communities and loved by many people.

George or "Duke" was born in Bowbells, North Dakota on September 23, 1935. His family came to Spokane where he lived up until he was 14. He lived with Harry and Letha Curtis at Palouse, Washington and later moved to Pomeroy.

It was in Pomeroy that he met the love of his life Helen Diane Obenland in 1952. They were high school sweethearts and they married in 1956. George joined the Air Force in 1955 and served four years. He also served in the US Army for four years in the 1970s.

George attended Central Washington University from 1958 to 1962 studying to become a doctor. He wore a lot of different hats in his life. Pomeranians will well remember George for owning and operating the Owl Service Station on Main Street he purchased from Kenneth "Babe" Obenland in the 1960s. (The Owl was known as the Freedom Mart for a short time under different ownership, but George repurchased it and renamed it The Owl.)

Mr. Hattell served on the Pomeroy City Council from 1970 until 1997. In addition, he was an EMT with Jack Denny in Pomeroy from 1970-1976. In 2001, Mr. and Mrs. Hattell moved to Spokane and operated the Storaway Self Storage in Otis Orchards

George had a great life. He was loved by his family, always ready with a quick smile or a joke. He was the kind of guy, that once you met him, you felt like you had known him all your life. He was good and giving to others and understood the meaning of the phrase "do unto others."

George is survived by his wife Diane Hattell, his three children and spouses, Curt and Eileen Hattell, Tony and Michelle Hattell, Mary and Darren Mutch, five grandchildren, Allison Hattell, Jessica Hattell, George Hattell, Jack Hattell, and Miranda Mutch, his three sisters, Bette and her husband Len Bouge, Joann and her husband Joe Dawson and Donna and her husband Bob Carroll and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services were held at the Pomeroy Christian Church on May 18, 2015. Memorials should be made to the Boys Town or any other children's charities.

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Susan Gail Crabb McKinnick, 1950-2015

Susan Gail Crabb McKinnick, 64, passed away Sunday, Feb. 8, 2015, at her home in Tacoma.

Susan was born March 1, 1950, in Pomeroy, a daughter of Sue Annis Peters and Kenneth John Crabb. She graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1968. In November 1973 she married Larry Measel, and they later divorced. She worked more than 40 years in the medical field as a unit secretary and renal technician. Susan had a lifelong passion for cooking and wildlife, especially watching and feeding the crows in her yard. She was involved in the performing arts as a prop mistress at the Tacoma Little Theatre, where she met her loving companion of 25 years, Ron Canzler. Susan was a very kind and gentle soul; she had a loving and generous heart and was always giving to others.

She was preceded in death by her father, Kenneth John Crabb; her stepfather, Paul E. Stump; and her grandparents, Mary and Noah Peters.

She leaves her loving memories to be cherished by her son, Jamie Aron Measel of Tacoma; granddaughter Brooke Rose Measel of Tacoma, the delight of Susan's life; her mother, Sue Annis Peters of Pomeroy; stepmother Margaret M. Crabb of Clarkston; sister Holly Schiffer of Clarkston; brother Steve (Cathy) Crabb of Spokane; and nephew and nieces, Jared, Gina and Gillian.

The family held a private interment preceding the memorial service held at the Pomeroy United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one's choice.

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Juyne Bowles

(Claudette) Juyne Bowles passed away Monday, March 16, 2015, in her home, at the age of 81. She was surrounded by her family and friends as she entered into her eternal place in the arms of her Lord and Savior.

Juyne was born Aug. 10, 1933, in Pomeroy. She graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1951. She worked at the Pomeroy Hotel Cafe in the early 1940s and in the late 1940s as a waitress for Shafer's Cafe. Juyne worked as a cook in the Pomeroy High School cafeteria in the early 1950s.

After Juyne married Virgil, she began teaching piano and organ and worked as an in-home caregiver to multiple residents of Garfield County. In 1965, Juyne began decorating cakes for all occasions. She is well-known throughout the county for her beautiful cakes and musical abilities. Juyne enjoyed playing the piano with the Bowles Family Quartet, and Virgil playing along on the guitar. The family has played for many church and community occasions over the years. She loved anything that would allow her to spend time with her family and friends. Juyne took up oil painting in the 1990s, and all her children have pictures that Juyne made especially for them hanging in their homes. Juyne loved mushrooming in the mountains and, more than anything, loved her fishing adventures with Virgil, especially the times she caught the most or the biggest fish.

Juyne was a member of the Pomeroy Church of the Nazarene for 45 years. She acted as the Sunday school treasurer, Sunday school teacher, juniors leader, Vacation Bible School coordinator, choir member and as the church pianist/organist. Juyne and her family have attended the Pomeroy Christian Church for the past 14 years, where she was the church organist/pianist and member of the Music Worship Team. Juyne has been active in her community her entire life.

She was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 2351, the Pomeroy Golden Girls, was a past Pomeroy Senior Center president, Pioneer Association president, Garden Club president, an active member of the Pomeroy Grain Growers Association, Garfield County Fair Art Department superintendent, 4-H leader, Blue Birds leader and Pomeroy Music Boosters president. Juyne and her husband Virgil have been honored many times throughout the years. They were nominated as the senior center Valentine's Day king and queen and were Pioneers of the Year.

Juyne was preceded in death by her mother, Iva Valentine Hender; father James Calvin Hender; and brother Alfred Frank Hender.

Juyne is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Virgil Ray Bowles. They were married in Pomeroy, at the Pomeroy Church of the Nazarene, on June 17, 1951. She is also survived by children Larry (Sue) of Pomeroy, Vickie Bowles of Pasco, Gary (Patty) of Pomeroy and Lori (Kirk) of Liberty Lake, Wash.; grandchildren Heather Bowles, Erika Bowles, Heather Watson, Jonathon Bowles, Cody Bowles, Christine Bowles, Adam (Erica) Stallcop, Aaron (Kendra) Stallcop, Alyssa (Kris) Taylor, Amanda (David) Douglas, Kyia Douglas, Amanda Maples and Jordan Douglas; and great-grandchildren Emmerson Taylor and Hunter Bowles. Juyne is lovingly remembered by her sister, Betty Clary of Midland, Texas. She has numerous nieces and nephews who have relied on her over the years for support and prayers.

The memorial service was held at 11 a.m. March 30, 2015, at the Pomeroy Christian Chruch, 310 Eighth St., with Pastor Roger Pederson officiating. Memorial donations my be made to the Pomeroy Christian Church, P.O. Box 699, Pomeroy, WA 99347; or the Pomeroy Senior Center, P.O. Box 23, Pomeroy, WA 99347.

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Bill Cardwell

Bill Cardwell was born Nov. 20, 1915, in Pomeroy. He died peacefully in Seattle just before his 99th birthday (2014).

He grew up in Pomeroy and graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1933. After a year of helping build the family retail business, he attended the University of Washington. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in business and finance in 1938. While in school, he met Mary Kay Taper. They were married June 1, 1939.

They moved to Pomeroy, where Bill worked in the family department store. He joined the U.S. Navy during World War II. They sent him to Harvard for training, then stationed him in Hawaii, where he encrypted military messages. He returned from the service in 1946; he and Mary Kay bought Cardwell's Department Store in 1949. From 1964 to 1967, they opened a second business, a craft shop called The Variety Store. Bill sold the business in 1972, ending 73 years and three generations of family ownership in Pomeroy.

He consistently gave his time as a merchant, a school board member and an active community volunteer to help make Pomeroy a great place to live. He strongly supported Scouting. He became an Eagle Scout at the young age of 13. Scouting definitely made an impression, and set important standards that he followed throughout his life. As an adult, he spent decades as a Scouting volunteer for Boy and Cub Scouts, and encouraged his four sons to become Eagles. For his dedication, he was awarded the Silver Beaver Award, the highest honor for Scouting leaders. Privately, he thought about the Scout laws daily as a compass for living his life. He was trustworthy, loyal and helpful to family and friends. He was courteous and kind to everyone. He maintained a positive and cheerful attitude, and took responsibility for a happy and productive life. He was concerned about the needs of others. He was brave and always played a clean game. He believed in God, church and country.

Bill had a strong work ethic. He always kept a to-do list and put in long hours at the store. He enjoyed family, gardening and athletics. He loved to golf. He retired in his mid-50s and continued to play two or three rounds a week until he was 93!

Bill and Mary Kay lived most of their lives in Pomeroy. They moved to Walla Walla in 1995. Mary Kay died Jan. 24, 2010. In January 2012, Bill moved to the Foundation House in Bothell, Wash., a friendly and happy independent living facility located close to family. Throughout his entire life he was physically and mentally active, with a remarkable memory for people and events.

Bill is survived by four sons and their spouses, Rich (Suzanne) of Seattle, Ray (Gail) of Edmonds, Washington, Jim (Karla) of Orlando, Florida, and Chris (Mary) of Lake Sammamish, Washington. He leaves nine grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Bill was a lifetime member of St. Peter's Episcopal Church. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday in Pomeroy at the Richardson Brown Funeral Home. He died feeling happy and humble about the life he was able to lead. He was deeply loved by his family and friends and will always be missed.

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Audrey Herres

Audrey Beechinor Herres, 91, passed away on September 1, 2013, in Walla Walla at Wheatland Village. She was born in Walla Walla October 24, 1921, graduated St. Pat's High School and attended Washington State University. It was love at first sight when she met Ferd Herres of Pomeroy at the campus Newman Club. They were married July 12, 1942, in Walla Walla just as Ferd began service in World War II as a B--17 pilot. Their first year was spent moving to various military bases throughout the country for his training. They made many wonderful friendships during that time and maintained them throughout their lives.

Audrey's first love was people. Her home was always open to visitors for meals, 'hotel' stays and sharing stories. Hundreds of people - family, friends and business associates - were welcomed over the nearly 7 decades they maintained their home in Pomeroy. Audrey was actively involved in the development of their businesses - Farm & Home Supply, Ferd Herres Chevrolet and J.I. Case dealership. She was a committed member of the Altar Society of Holy Rosary Church.

She loved to dance and regretted that their busy work and family lives left little opportunity for them to kick up their heels as they had in their early years. She loved to play bridge, listen to music and loved children. On Halloween, she and Ferd delighted in inviting every trick-or-treater inside their home and kept a yearly log of who came.

The couple was passionate fans and supporters of WSU athletics and attended footballs games into their 80's. They loved to travel, taking many trips abroad, usually in groups related to their businesses. Audrey loved telling about the night she danced with Bob Hope.

But the greatest joy of her life was her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She encouraged and delighted in the unique gifts of each one. Audrey is survived by her three children , Jerry (Libby) Herres, Carolyn Michael, and Virginia (Alan Abrams) Wise; seven grandchildren; and 6 1/2 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ferd Herres, in 2010 and her grandson, Brad Burns in 1997. Also by her brothers, Bob and Bill Beechinor, and her sister, Frances Nelson.

Audrey's children wish to express their deepest gratitude to the skillful, deeply caring, loving and dependable caregivers from Angie's Angels, Res Care Home Care and Hospice of Walla Walla during her final years. Special thanks to Father Bob Turner, Mary Ann Reinhardt, Joan Kay Herres, Cindy Gregoire, and all who faithfully visited her.

A Rosary was recited September 5, 2013, at Herring-Groseclose Funeral Home in Walla Walla, WA. Her funeral mass was celebrated on September 6, 2013, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Pomeroy, WA. Memorials can be made to Hospice of Walla Walla, Garfield County Hospital Auxiliary, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

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Florine Ann Waldher, 1929-2013

After a long-fought battle with breast cancer, Florine Ann Waldher succumbed to the disease January 2, 2013, at her home in Pomeroy.

Florine was born February 1, 1929, to Charles Whitehead from Sweetwater, Texas, and Inez Copinger Mott from South Dakota.

She was the ninth of 14 siblings, raised and educated in Sioux City, Iowa. After graduating from high school she lived for a year with her oldest sister in Seattle. Upon returning to Sioux City, she met a young U.S. Air Force career officer, Harold A. Waldher, from Pomeroy, assigned to the local Air Force station. They were married July 4, 1949, beginning terribly hectic military duty assignments requiring 16 "pack up and move" family relocations over the next 20 years.

Their son, Terry, was born August 1, 1952, in Pomeroy, while Harold was at a remote radar site in Alaska. Florine later joined him in Anchorage, where daughter Debbie joined the family in 1953. From Alaska, they relocated to another radar site at Curlew, Washington, where daughter Michelle was born in 1955. After three years at Curlew and for the next 12 years, Harold's duty took the family on a whirlwind of assignments to Spokane, Montgomery, Boston, Kansas City, Omaha, and Colorado Springs, where daughter Inez joined the family in 1966. Harold retired from the Air Force in 1970. They settled in Kent, Washington, and for the next 23 years Florine enjoyed the calm, quiet life of a normal housewife without thoughts of how to begin the next move. By 1993, the kids had families of their own and she and Harold moved back to Pomeroy for good.

Despite the rigors of her nomadic family life, Florine was a devoted homemaker, and would not have it any other way. She dearly loved her family, her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They were all the light of her life.

Florine is survived by her husband, Harold A. Waldher of Pomeroy; daughters, Deborah Cheek of Shoreline, Washington, Michelle Swensen of Renton, Washington, and Inez Cannon of Pomeroy; sisters, Esther Pomeroy of Omaha, and Karen Krueger of Canton, Michigan; nine grandchildren, Jason, Shawn, Sarah, Kristina, Kathryn, Skyler, Stephanie, Terry Jr., Chad and Launa; and 15 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles Whitehead and Inez Mott Whitehead; son, Terrence A. Waldher; five brothers, Zane, Duane, Robert, Charles and Ted; and six sisters, Mona, Cally, Delores, Lita, Darlene and Inez.

A Memorial Mass was celebrated at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Pomeroy. Inurnment followd at Holy Rosary Cemetery in the family plot.

Memorial donations may be made to Susan G. Komen for the cure of breast cancer or the charity of one's choice.

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Ferd Herres

Ferd J. Herres, 89, died peacefully Monday, Dec. 20, 2010, at his Wheatland Village home in Walla Walla, with Audrey, his wife of 68 years, at his side. He was born April 18, 1921, in Pomeroy, to German immigrant parents, Michael and Mary Herres. He was the fifth of their 10 children.

He grew up on the family's farm, where cow milking and other chores inspired him to explore other career options after graduating from Pomeroy High School in 1938. He attended Washington State University, where he received a bachelor of science degree in agricultural education in 1942 and was an ROTC commissioned officer.

While at college, he met Audrey Beechinor one Sunday after Mass. From that day forward, they were devoted to one another. Ferd and Audrey married at St. Patrick's Church in Walla Walla July 12, 1942.

Ferd was immediately called into military service in the infantry, but was transferred to the U.S. Army Air Forces, where he became a B-17 bomber pilot. Capt. Herres flew 33 missions between England and Germany during World War II. He and his crew survived a bailout on their last mission, landing on the coast of England.

Returning to civilian life in Pomeroy after the war, Ferd and Audrey opened a business, Farm and Home Supply. Through the years, they owned and operated a hardware store, a Case farm implement dealership, and a Chevy car and truck dealership on Main Street.

He was steadfastly loyal to his large extended family, community, church and college. He contributed his time and expertise to a variety of organizations, including the Garfield County Hospital board, Pomeroy Chamber of Commerce and the Knights of Columbus. He was an avid WSU Cougar supporter and fan.

At the corner of Seventh and High streets in Pomeroy, Ferd and Audrey continually opened their door and hearts to countless people who shared stories, meals and overnight stays. They offered a kind of hospitality that reflected their generosity and deep sense of community.

Ferd was appreciated by all who knew him for his quiet, good nature, friendly smile and dry sense of humor. His tenaciousness and discipline were apparent in all he did. Ferd worked full time at his business until age 78, when retirement became necessary due to heart surgery. When confronted with the challenges of Parkinson's disease, he met them head on, learning all he could about the disease and taking informed action to maximize his enjoyment of life. He and Audrey participated actively in Parkinson's support groups for more than 10 years. Benefiting from their characteristic teamwork and courage, Ferd continued to live a functional and productive life. They moved to Wheatland Village in Walla Walla in 2008.

In addition to his wife, Audrey, Ferd is survived by their three children, Jerry Herres and Libby of Kennewick, and Carolyn Michael and Virginia Wise, both of Olympia; as well as six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, one sister and three brothers, and a niece, Joan Kay Herres of Pomeroy. He was preceded in death by one grandson and five brothers.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Garfield County Hospital, Holy Rosary Parish in Pomeroy or the Sisters of the Holy Names in Spokane.

A funeral Mass was celebrated on Friday, December 24, 2010, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church.

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Eva Waldher

Eva Christine Waldher, a native of Pomeroy, died Tuesday, March 3, 2009, at Tri-State Memorial Hospital in Clarkston.

She was born Feb. 2, 1908, to Herman and Mary Ogden Baden, in a farmhouse south of Pomeroy near the Tucannon District. She attended Skyhawk country school and graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1927.

She married Herman Waldher in 1927, in Pomeroy, and they farmed many years near Pomeroy. Herman later worked at the Waldher Carpenter Shop while she worked at Brown's Drug Store for nearly 30 years.

After retirement, they enjoyed traveling, riding their snowsleds from their cabin at Stentz Springs in the Blue Mountains, and fishing at Chapman Lake near Spokane, where they had a travel trailer permanently located.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Herman, and grandson Terry.

She is survived by her son, Harold and his wife Florine; a granddaughter-in-law, June Kralman Waldher; granddaughters Debbie and Clay Cheek, Michelle Swensen and Inez West; eight great-grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements are provided by Richardson-Brown Funeral Home in Pomeroy. A rosary was recited on March 6, and a funeral Mass was celebrated the following day, both at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Pomeroy. Father Bob Turner officiated.

Memorials may be sent to Morning Star Boy's Ranch, P.O. Box 8087, Spokane, WA 99203-0087; or to Memory Manor Nursing Home, Pomeroy, WA 99347.

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Joan Kay Herres

Joan Kay Herres was born June 11th, 1947 in Walla Walla, Washington, to John Peter Herres Sr. and Dorothy (Malone) Herres. Joan Kay passed away on October 2nd, 2013 with friends and family by her side. Joan Kay is survived by brother Frederic Herres, along with an aunt, uncle, nieces, nephews, and many cousins. She was preceded in death by her father, John P. Herres, Sr., her mother, Dorothy Herres, and her brother, John P. Herres Jr.

Joan Kay was raised in and lived in Pomeroy and Garfield County most of her life. She was graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1965 and attended Washington State University.

Joan Kay gave her life to others and thrived on helping those in her community. She taught the First Communion class for over twenty years and worked as the parish secretary at Holy Rosary Catholic Church for several years. She was a 4-H leader, worked in the craft and poultry divisions of the Garfield County Fair, and was a valued employee at Castlemoyle Books. She was also the neighborhood seamstress, and cared for the elderly as well as young adults. Joan Kay was a good, kindhearted servant of The Lord and she will be greatly missed.

A Rosary was recited on the evening of October 17th, 2013, and a Funeral Mass was celebrated on October 18th at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Pomeroy.

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John Peter Herres, Jr.

 

John Peter Herres Jr. was born in Walla Walla, Washington on September 19, 1945 and passed in Vancouver, Washington on November 7th, 2012.

John was survived by his children Courtney (Thompson) and Peter and his sister Joan Kay Herres of Pomeroy.

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Sylvia Warren

Sylvia Frances Warren went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2009. She was born Dec. 23, 1914, to Robert and Clara MacDonald in Port Hill, Idaho.

She lived in, and enjoyed, Memory Manor in Pomeroy for the past three years. Previously she lived at Evergreen Estates in Clarkston for a short time but was a longtime resident of Pomeroy. She and her husband Stanley farmed south of Pomeroy (where her son Stan and grandson Justin still farm). Stanley and Sylvia moved into a house they renovated in Pomeroy in 1977. They remained active in many community organizations, including the Nazarene Church, Odd Fellows and Rebekahs, Veterans of Foreign Wars Women's Auxiliary and Pleasant Grove Grange.

She was the beloved mother of six children and spent most of her life tending to the needs of a farm family. She worked on the farm, tending header on the old combine in earlier years and then went on to driving truck later. She also was instrumental in remodeling two large houses and converting them to four-unit apartment buildings. She managed them for many years. She loved having guests and preparing big meals. She worked hard to keep the flower gardens and especially her rose garden beautiful.

She was preceded in death by her husband Stanley and her son Willis.

She is survived by her sons and their wives, Howard and Irene, Stan and Karen, and Sam and Diana; also by daughters and their husbands, Carmelita and Dave, and Kandis and Allen. She had 25 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Services were held on Thursday, February 26, at the Nazarene Church in Pomeroy, with a reception afterward.

Memorials can be given to the Nazarene Church (135 9th Street, Pomeroy WA 99347) to Memory Manor (c/o Garfield County Hospital, 66 N 6th Street, Pomeroy WA 99347) or another of your choice.

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Gerrald (Jerry) Marion Stark, 1932-2008

Gerrald (Jerry) Marion Stark was born October 4, 1932, in Pomeroy, to Bert and Letha Stark. He died July 13, 2008, at St. Joseph's Hospital in Tacoma.

Jerry grew up in both Fairbanks and Pomeroy, traveling back and forth with his parents, along with his aunt and uncle, Grace and Jay Ogden.

He graduated from Pomeroy High School and served three years with the U.S. Marines. He worked at several different occupations, mainly as a shrimp fisherman, policeman and as a machine oiler at Tillamook Lumber Company.

He married Mary Ann (Barnes/Cooper) Stark Oct. 25, 1968, in Portland, and moved his family to Tillamook shortly thereafter. He and Mary Ann lived in Tillamook until 2004, when they began living in Tucson, Ariz., during the winters and spending summers as state park campground hosts throughout the Pacific Northwest.

During Jerry's years in Tillamook, he participated alongside Mary Ann with the Tillamook County Ambassadors group. He was knighted by the Portland Royal Rosarians in 1995. He was a constant help with both Mary Ann's catering business and during her tenure as executive director of the Tillamook Chamber of Commerce, always helping out wherever he was needed.

Jerry had a great love for his family and friends. He was an avid reader of many books, enjoyed fishing and woodworking. His sense of humor always shone through, even during his last months after struggling from a heart attack and stroke. He will be missed by his family, friends and his dog, Easy.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Stark, currently of Steilacoom, Wash.; children, Tawny LaTourette of Beaverton, Tina Gates of Heyburn, Idaho, Dawn Brumfield of Steilacoom, Wash., and Dale Cooper of Tillamook; nine grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; his father, Bert Stark of Walla Walla, Wash.; and one sister, Carole Slaybaugh of Pomeroy, Wash. He is also survived by Matthew Cooper (half brother to Dawn and Dale) and his two children.

A memorial service was held Aug. 2, 2008, at the Elks picnic grounds in Tillamook with Father Ray Ferguson officiating. Contributions to purchase books may be made in Jerry's honor at the Tillamook County Library.

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Bruce Allen Adams

Bruce Allen Adams passed away on May 14, 2008, after a long struggle with heart disease and diabetes.

Bruce was born July 4, 1929, at the family homestead, near Gandy, Logan County, Nebraska, to William C. and Celeste B. Adams. He joined brother Samuel and Kyle and sister Thelma. Sister Doris (Mickey) came along a few years later. Dry land farming the Nebraska sand hills was not the best at the time he was born. In 1934 the family moved to Sutherland, Nebraska, to carry the U.S. Mail, farm, and thresh small grain. The farming operation later grew into a fairly large enterprise. In his lifetime he saw the end of horse and mule farming and the evolution of the mechanization of today. He loved to watch the modern farmers work the fields in Garfield County where he spent his last years. The area was very similar to the area he grew up, only with a lot more hills. He was a farm boy at heart.

Bruce enlisted in the U.S. Army in September, 1948. He received his basic training and advanced training at Fort Lewis, Washington, where he met George Lillihei. George brought him home to spend the weekend with his family and that is how he met the love of his life, Elsie. Bruce and Elsie were married on January 28, 1950. The Pacific Northwest became his home.

After jobs as a stableman and delivery person, he found work with the Boeing Airplane Company. Bruce and Elsie were among the early residents of Federal Way, Washington, where they lived for a number of years. At Boeing, he was trained in machining and tooling. During Boeing layoffs he worked for other aerospace companies in various parts of the country including Kansas, California, and Colorado. However, he spent most of his years of employment at the Boeing Company from which he was retired on January 1, 1985.

Following Elsie’s retirement, Bruce and Elsie traveled throughout the United States as full time RV’ers for about 14 years. They traveled to Southern Arizona and California most winters until 2003. In 1999 Elsie and Bruce joined daughter Beverly and her husband John in Pomeroy. Bruce’s skills in construction and management of people helped Beverly and John immensely in the renovation of the Hotel Revere. The hotel is now a National Register property.

Bruce loved a joke and to tell jokes. He was excellent storyteller. He was happiest when he made someone laugh. He was always ready for a party or a celebration. He loved hunting, fishing and the great outdoors.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, brother Samuel, first born infant daughter Bernice Ellen and grandson Lee Eric Brovold. He is survived by his wife Elsie, children Barbara Ann Adams, Carol Sue Brovold (Ross), Beverly Lynn Adams-Gordon (John), and Ronald Kyle Adams (Sawon). He enjoyed joking, fishing and boating with his 10 grandchildren and 14 great-grand children.

A Funeral Mass was held on Friday, May 23, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Pomeroy, followed by burial at the Holy Rosary Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Tri-State Hospice Care (1221 Highland Ave, Clarkston WA 99403) or a charity of your choice.

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Richard 'Dick' Stanley

Passed away quietly on February 1, 2004. He was a resident of the Spokane area for 35 years. Mr. Stanley was born September 23, 1922, in Holly, Colorado, and was raised on a cattle ranch in DeBeque, Colorado.

In 1940, he moved to Holden, Washington, where he worked underground as a "hard rock" miner for several years. He married Betty Brunk in 1942 in Wenatchee, Wshington.

They moved to Pomeroy in 1949, where he owned and operated the OK Tire Store. After 20 years in Pomeroy, Mr. Stanley retired and moved to Spokane.

He was involved in Jaycees, the Eagles Lodge, the Elks Lodge, and was a Past Master of the Masonic Lodge. He loved all sports and was an active and proficient horseman. A cowboy at heart, Mr. Stanley belonged to the American Quarter Horse Association and participated in numerous team-penning competitions.

Survivors include two sons Wally and Wife Nancy of Spokane Valley, Bill andf wife Jo Ann of Spokane, five ghrandchildren, and four great grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Assn., 315 W Mission Avenue, Spokane WA 99201.