Obituary: Linda Regele, 78, Hood River

Linda Regele
1946 - 2025

Linda Regele, of Hood River, Oregon, passed away on April 10, 2025, surrounded by family at Hood River Memorial Hospital. She was 78 years old.

Linda was born on June 18, 1946, in Worcester, Massachusetts, to James A. and Mildred A. (Keirstead) McFee. She grew up in Worcester, where she graduated from Commerce High School in 1964. Linda continued her education at Westboro State Hospital's nursing program, graduating in 1966. She worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at Worcester State Hospital until her retirement in 2006.

In 2008, Linda moved to Hood River, Oregon. She loved spending time with her family, and some of her favorite activities included scenic drives to Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Hood.

In 2014, Linda moved to Down Manor, where she made many close friends. She enjoyed playing cards, Bingo, and Mexican Train. One of her favorite pastimes was taking the scenic bus rides.

Linda is survived by her son, James Regele of Sanford, Maine; her daughter, Kathryn Jones of The Dalles, Oregon; three grandchildren, Justina Humphrey of Hood River, Oregon, Elmer Smith Jr. of Worcester, Massachusetts, and Danielle Flohr of The Dalles, Oregon; great-grandson, Elmer Smith IV of Worcester, Massachusetts; and her sister, Sandra J. Depanian of Worcester, Massachusetts. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Sterling R. McFee.

A Celebration of Life and reception will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 18, 2025, at Anderson’s Tribute Center, 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031.

The family invites friends and relatives to visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave notes or memories for the family.

Obituary: Klea Espy, 84, The Dalles

Klea Espy, born March 30, 1940, passed away on March 28, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, community service, and bright colors. 

After retiring from a career in banking, Klea devoted herself to volunteer work. She helped launch the Habitat ReStore in The Dalles in 2008. She was named The Dalles area "Volunteer of the Year" and served on the boards of Habitat for Humanity, Community Meals, the Mid-Columbia Concert Association, and The Dalles Senior Center. She also managed the Senior Center’s “Nu 2 U” shop alongside a "super bunch of dedicated volunteers."

Klea had a vibrant spirit and a love for color and crazy patterns. Whether it was painting her house purple “because it makes people smile” or organizing Hat Day at church which became a fan favorite, she had a way of spreading joy and laughter everywhere she went. 

She is survived by her half-brother Art Fox; her children Stuart Donckers and Shari Felton; stepchildren Scott Espy (Diane), Sandee Flint (Mark), and Anjee Stiles (Mike); six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Donations in her memory may be made to UCC Congregational Church, Habitat for Humanity, or the Senior Center of The Dalles.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 12th at UCC Congregational Church at 10:00am. We encourage all to wear your brightest colors or craziest hat in honor of Klea.

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

Obituary: John W Rowley, 74, The Dalles

John W Rowley

John W Rowley left us on Friday March 14, 2025. John will be sorely missed by his wife Victoria, his siblings, and nieces and nephews. John was a friend to many and would be the first person to call if you needed a hand!

John was the 4th child born to Vincent and Sophie Rowley on February 10th, 1951. Upon finding his birth certificate in his 70’s, it was discovered that John’s birth date was actually February 11, 1951, all those early birthday celebrations, who knew.

Like all children raised in a small town in the 1950’s, John experienced a free-range childhood. He and the rest of his siblings were allowed to roam at will but were required to return home for meals and when the streetlights came on. This allowed for many diverse experiences. John took full advantage of these opportunities: jumping off bridges and piers into the Columbia River, racing motorcycles though the desert, Pheasant and Duck hunting in the “blocks,” fishing in the many rivers, lakes and ponds. This untethered freedom also landed John in a few scrapes with the law: John shot a Seattle hunter’s Irish Setter on Denise Hoover’s farm, he was caught with his decoys in the McNary game refuge, he was also caught shooting after dusk, again on the Hoover farm, and an extensive list of shenanigans that weren’t a matter of public record.

John started his education at Saint Patrick’s elementary school. It was recommended by the parish, around the 5th grade, that the Rowley boys would be better suited to the public school system. Although John didn’t flourish in the traditional sense of the academic system, he was an active student and excelled at “school.”  

One of John’s educational coups was his election as Senior Class President. He received more votes than there were students, but his victory stuck. His victory didn’t make the school administration very happy, nor did John for that matter. John was straddled with an additional workload and unprecedented responsibilities; nevertheless, John fulfilled his tenure and graduated from Pasco Senior high school in 1970.

John delivered papers as a youth and then, like many of us in a small farm town, John started his employment career by changing sprinklers, bucking hay, and working on wheat combines. John broke out of the farm work with a job as a box boy at Sigman’s groceries then progressed into the produce department and a proud member of the Retail Clerks Union.

Coming of age during the late 60’s and early 70’s was a mix of change, protest, the counterculture, and experimentation with drugs. John took full advantage of this chaotic era. He grew his hair out, wore bell bottoms, turned the music up and turned on… you can fill in the blanks.

John grew restless and moved to The Dalles, Oregon in the early 1970’s to start a new chapter in his life. His first job in The Dalles was as at a local watering hole, Jiggers, where John made numerous friends and countless contacts in The Dalles community. John grew restless at serving drinks and doling out advice, so he moved to the retail sector with a sales job with Mauser Lumber Company, which stretched into a 32-year career. John became immersed in the building industry for The Dalles and the surrounding Columbia Gorge area. He not only sold lumber and building materials he also mixed paint, found you the screw that you so desperately needed, all with a cheerful smile, but he was also the first person at work; he made the coffee in the morning and took out the trash…unsolicited, because john said no job was beneath him. John was a friend to all and a helper to anyone who asked.

John met his soul mate in Victoria, and they married on October 11, 1993. They would spend the next 32 years in The Dalles. Victoria spent her years with John pursuing their collective interests and traveling the Northwest together.

For many years John’s passion was cars. He collected numerous cars and trucks over the years and stored them in Duffer, OR where he owned property. John’s specialty was hot rods. He customized several 38 Chevy Coups along the way, which was John’s happy place. He drove his Rod’s in local parades up and down the Gorge and was often seen driving around The Dalles in his beloved cars.

John continued his childhood love of fishing in The Dalles and spent innumerable days on the Columbia River in pursuit of Salmon and the elusive pre-historic White Sturgeon. John also returned to Pasco often to fish with his high school buddies.

John left behind the love of his life Victoria, a brother Vincent, a sister Frances, not to mention a gaggle of nieces’ and nephew’s. We’ll all miss him dearly!

A memorial of John’s life will take place on April,19 @ 1pm, at Mayer State Park, near the boat ramp, just west of Rowena and The Dalles, OR (Interstate 84, Exit 76). Please contact Vince Rowley for details @  206.730.2132.

Death Notice: John E Parker, 91, Hood River

John E Parker, age 91, a resident of Hood River, OR, passed away at a local care facility on March 27, 2025.

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

Death Notice: Clyde Thomas Schreffler, 75, The Dalles

Clyde Thomas Schreffler, age 75, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at OHSU Hospital on March 26, 2025.

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

Death Notice: Robert De Bolt, 69, The Dalles

Robert De Bolt, age 69, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at a local care facility on March 27, 2025.

A Graveside Service will be held April 1, 2025, 11:00 AM at Odd Fellows Cemetery on Cherry Heights Rd, The Dalles, OR. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

Jasper McDonald Alsup, 73, The Dalles

Jasper McDonald Alsup, age 73, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on March 14, 2025.

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

Obituary: Eugene Albert Gravel, 80, The Dalles

Eugene Albert Gravel 

September 3, 1944 - March 20, 2025 

Eugene Albert Gravel, 80, passed away at home on March 20, 2025. Born on September 3, 1944, to Lorraine Marie McGraw and Frederick Charles Gravel, Gene was the oldest of four rambunctious boys, a role that instilled in him a sense of responsibility and leadership from an early age. 

Eugene served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. After his military service, he pursued a long and impactful career as a civil engineer. Among his many achievements, he contributed to significant projects such as the lock at the Bonneville Dam, a feat of engineering that remains a testament to his skill and commitment. His work also took him to remote and challenging locations, including Alaska's Prudhoe Bay and St. Paul Island, where he oversaw vital infrastructure projects. 

In 1973, Gene married Lorraine Jean Rebo, and together they built a loving family. They had two children and over the years, their family grew with the addition of four grandchildren. 

Those who knew Gene appreciated his quiet demeanor, which often belied a stubborn determination that served him well in both his personal and professional life. Yet, beneath his reserved exterior lay a gentle soul. Kind and generous, Gene loved giving gifts. He had the habit of quietly humming while he worked, and typically had a dog by his side. 

After retiring, Gene fulfilled a lifelong dream by building a ranch on 75 acres of timberland. For the past 27 years, he found peace and joy there, surrounded by nature and the fruits of his labor. Truly a special place, the ranch was a sanctuary where he cultivated memories with family and friends. 

Eugene is remembered for his unwavering dedication to his craft, his risk taking, and his love for the outdoors. He is survived by his wife, Lorraine; their two children Ryan and Erin; and his four grandchildren, Birch, Elizabeth, Basil, and Aurora. 

Gene's legacy lives on through his contributions to engineering and the lives he touched along the way. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.

Death Notice: Gregory Andrew Gaylord, 72, Dufur

Gregory Andrew Gaylord, age 72, a resident of Dufur, OR, passed away at home on March 14, 2025.

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

Death Notice: John David Warkentin, 53, The Dalles

John David Warkentin, age 53, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on January 26, 2025.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 22, 2025, from 11 am to 2 pm at the Rivers of Grace Church, 1122 Oak Street, The Dalles, OR. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Death Notice: Betsy Ann Johnson, 89, The Dalles

Betsy Ann Johnson, age 89, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on January 13, 2025.

A Memorial Service has been planned at The Dalles First United Methodist Church on February 8, 2025, at 1:30 PM. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Death Notice: Betty June Polehn, 95, The Dalles

Betty June Polehn, age 95, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on January 1, 2025.

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

Death Notice: Clifford Eugene O’Dell, 76, The Dalles

Clifford Eugene O’Dell, age 76, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on December 4, 2024.

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

Obituary: Catherine J. Kelter, 94 , Hood River

Catherine J. Kelter

“Well, that was fun!” Cathie Kelter would announce whenever she was ready to leave a family gathering– a signal that it was time to go home. On October 26, she left her family for the last time, a month shy of her 95th birthday. A fall and a stroke upended her plans to stay at home until the end.

Catherine J. Kelter was born on November 25, 1929, in Neligh, Nebraska, the youngest of Ed and Anne Wanek’s four children. She attended college at St. Mary’s in Omaha and later Creighton University, where she met her husband Don. They were married in 1952. Shortly afterward, Don was drafted and the newlyweds moved to California. After his discharge from the army, Don and Cathie left their hearts in San Francisco and moved back to Nebraska to raise their growing family, always hoping to one day return to the West Coast.

In 1971, Don accepted the position of administrator at the Hood River Memorial Hospital, and the family moved to Oregon. Cathie continued in her role as administrator of their seven children. When she wasn’t sewing, playing the piano, creating handmade cards, writing clever songs, helping with homework, or learning calligraphy, she and Don enjoyed hiking, Sunday drives, trips to the beach, square dancing, and spending time with family. One of her sons described the two as the Dynamic Duo, always there to love and support each other as well as their children and grandchildren and their spouses. After Don’s death in 2001, Cathie stepped up and assumed all the responsibilities of the Dynamic Duo. She was always there to listen, encourage, and offer reassurance, often accompanied by a glass of wine.

In 1985, Cathie opened the Wine Sellers, with help from her daughter Jean. For more than 25 years she offered wine, coffee, conversation, and warm welcomes to customers, family, and friends. After the Wine Sellers closed, Cathie found another outlet for her energy: already a Master Mother and Grandmother, she added Master Gardener and a Master Recycler to her list of accomplishments.

As her mobility became more limited and Cathie’s world grew smaller, her family brought the world to her in the form of daily visits, grocery shopping, meals, vacation photos, and an endless supply of jigsaw puzzles. She took special joy in “Thirsty Thursday” happy hours with grandchildren Jessica, Jon, and Carin. At the end of each visit, she would encourage them to “go do something fun.”

Hello, World!

Cathie will be greatly missed by her children and their spouses: Anne and Lou Gehrig, Mike and Vicki Kelter, Tom and Dana Kelter, Jim and Peggy Dills Kelter, Jean and Rick Dills, Maggie and Joe Pike, Bill and Amy Kelter, her grandchildren Jessica (Apland), Jon and Colin Gehrig, Kristina Green, Katie Soderberg, Nick and Pete Dills, Rose Kelter, Carin Pike, Hannah Vassar, 15 great-grandchildren, and all the others whose lives she touched. A private graveside service will be held at the Pine Grove Butte Cemetery, followed by a Celebration of Life.

The family would like to thank all those who cared for Cathie during her last few weeks of life, especially the staff at Parkhurst Place and Providence Hospice of the Gorge. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Hood River County Library, FISH Food Bank, or Providence Hospice of the Gorge.

Please consider honoring Cathie by sowing seeds of kindness and by being the reason that someone smiles each day. Then take her advice and go do something fun.

Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.

Obituary: Renée Anne Clarke, 42, Parkdale

In Loving Memory

Renée Anne Clarke “Lou” “NiNi”

1981 - 2024

Our sweet angel, Renée Anne Clarke, left us on October 10th, 2024, at 10 a.m. at her home in Parkdale, Oregon.

Renée entered our lives on December 5th, 1981 on a beautiful rainy day, a wonderful daughter born to Kenneth and Alice Clarke (Campbell), then left us far too soon on October 10th, 2024. Though her life on earth was too short, Renée accomplished more than many people do in a full lifetime. She was a loving friend to many, an accomplished three-sport athlete in high school and champion softball player in college, and a scholar who earned her Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology.

Renée grew up in Parkdale within a great neighborhood of friends and family: Chad, Jeremy, Kenny, Trevor, Carey, Melissa, Jackie, Jared, her brother Nate, the Mabens, Aunt Widman, the Nelsons and the Merzs. She started her athletic activities at age 3 with Rainbow Gymnastics. She soon became a soccer star, and one of Coach Ron's favorite players. In high school, she was named player of the year by her teammates. Renée also excelled in basketball, and the Hood River Valley High crowds came to watch her and her teammates play: her cousin Calli, Darci, Britney, Camile, Alli, Carrie, and many more. Renée’s favorite sport was softball, though she was named First Team All-League in all three sports.

Renée graduated from Hood River Valley High School in 2000, and went on to do her undergraduate studies at Pacific Lutheran, where she met her Best Friends, Sara and Risa, with whom she played softball. What a time they had and in 2002 won the Division Ill League Softball championship and came in 4th in the nation.

During her summers at home, Renée worked for the US Forest Service at Multnomah Falls as a grounds keeper, and learned to love hiking. On one of her Christmas Holidays, she was able to go to Germany on a psychology tour. Renée graduated from Pacific Lutheran with honors, with a degree in Psychology, and worked as a social worker for six months. She returned home for another six months, and then in 2005 was accepted for a graduate program at Carlos Albizu University in Miami, Florida.

Hello, World!

So off to Florida we went, in support of her new life there. Two days after we arrived, Hurricane Katrina hit. During the five years Renée was in Florida, that was one of the many adventures we had, along with the Miami Zoo, South Beach, the Butterfly Sanctuary, and our wonderful trip to the Keys, in the yellow convertible. While in graduate school, Renée did an Internship at the Miami Federal Correctional Institution for two years. In 2011, she received a Certification of Appreciation from their Psychology Services Department for all of her hard work and dedication. In August of 2012, Renée completed her dissertation on "Gender Stereotypes and How They Affect Sentencing of Women Who Kill," (Thank You Vicky) and graduated with a Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology, Distinction with Honors.

Renée was next off to Larned, Kansas in 2013 to start her post-doctorate work, in a State Mental Institution. Her beloved dog, Scobbie, moved with her. Upon completion of that work, she came home for a year while looking for a position, and was able to spend time with her new nephew Will and niece Hailey. Renée then accepted a position working in a State Mental Intuition in San Antionio, Texas in August 2014. There, she loved her work and new location.

Sadly, Renée was diagnosed with Huntington's Disease in March of 2015, and her health began to deteriorate. So Renée and Scobbie came home in November 2015. Our promise to Renée was she would be able to live at home with her family, and thanks to all of Christie and Nate's help, we were able to keep this promise. Back home, Renée enjoyed going to all of her nephew Will's activities (while always cheering him on), fishing (with her Father and Kelsey), seeing the horses, and spending time with her family and friends. But Renée’s health continued to deteriorate over the time from 2015 to 2024. Thankfully, we were able to have her for nine wonderful years with so much love from her kind, happy spirit.

Renée is survived by her parents Ken and Alice Clarke, brother Nate Clarke, sister-in-law Christie Clarke, nephew Will Clarke, and many loving aunts, uncles and cousins.

As Renée’s family, we would like to give a special thank you to the Caregivers who gave Renée such wonderful care: our dear Kelsey, who was with Renée the last year of her life, Morgan, Angie, Tracey, and my wonderful sister Shirley. We would  also like to thank Wendy Best for spending two hours every Saturday, for two years, reading and playing her violin for Renée. Finally, our greatest appreciation to all the many people who took time to see Renée and make her smile.

Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center • 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031.  

Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.

Obituary: Sandra Arlene (Foss) Bredeson, 78, Nehalem

Sandra Arlene (Foss) Bredeson

January 22, 1946 – October 24, 2024

In no particular order: She was fragile in body and strong in spirit. She raised her children with determination. While being a single mother she provided for her children no matter the sacrifice, while never giving up on love. She provided a home and family life which fostered a determination for success and settled for no less.

She appreciated the beauty in the little things, just like her mother and grandmother did. Like her garden roses, she was beautiful yet delicate and protected herself as well as those she loved with the metaphoric thorns she wore. When her illnesses stole so much of what she lived for, she fought to soldier on to the bitter end. It’s time to rest, mama, you won this one!

Sandi, as she was known, was born in Sherman County, OR to Hazel Marie and John Austin Foss, who preceded her. She is also preceded by her grandparents Rose Marie and Everett Harrison Watkins; Janet Katherine and John Fredrick Foss.

Sandi is survived by her beloved husband of 45 years Rodney Dean Bredeson; brother Michael Rae Foss (wife Colleen); cousin Shirley Blaylock; daughter Michelle Rae Jackson (husband Jeremy); sons Timothy Allen Hoover (wife Mikki) and Terry Arthur Hoover (husband Bradford Davis); grandchildren Jared Vincent Hoover, Brooklynn Marie Palmer, Jace Austin Jackson and Emma Jordan LaBrado.

A Sherman County High class of 1964 graduate, Sandi also completed Portland State University’s dental hygienist program in 1966 and was a Beta Sigma Phi sorority member. She ventured away from her hometown of Wasco, having lived in The Dalles, OR, Watsonville, CA, Boise, ID, Sunnyside, WA, Selah, WA, and Pasco, WA. Ultimately Sandi realized a dream of living on the Oregon Coast in Nehalem for the past 28 years. In the early morning of Thursday, October 24, 2024, she passed peacefully at home in her sleep in the loving care of her devoted husband.

Service is set to be held at Spencer Libby & Power on Friday, November 1st at 1:00 p.m. followed by a graveside internment.

Death Notice: Betty Jean West, 71, Tygh Valley

Betty Jean West, age 71, a resident of Tygh Valley, OR, passed away on October 12, 2024.

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 2, 2024, at 2 PM, at 80736 Shadybrook Rd, Tygh Valley, OR 97063. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

Death Notice: Delores Sharon Foster “Dee”, 76, White Salmon

Delores Sharon Foster “Dee” passed away on September 22nd, 2024, in Vancouver, Washington.

Dee was born on August 3rd, 1948, and was 76 years of age at the time of passing.  

Services for Dee are planned for 12 NOON, Thursday, October 17th, 2024 at the Carson Cemetery. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Gardner Funeral Home in White Salmon, Washington.  Visit www.GardnerFH.com to share a story or leave a note for the family.      

Obituary: Richard Harry Edstrom, 86, The Dalles

Richard Harry Edstrom

June 29, 1938 – August 28, 2024

Richard Harry Edstrom

Richard, affectionately known as “Dick” or “Dirty Harry” to those who knew him best, passed away on August 28, 2024, at the age of 86 at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital. He was a beloved husband, stepfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Dick’s larger-than-life personality and infectious sense of humor will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Dick lived a full and adventurous life. He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Air Force, where he developed a strong sense of duty and camaraderie that would stay with him throughout his life. Following his military service, Dick found his calling in several professions that allowed him to help others and share his many talents.

He spent time as a firefighter, bravely working to protect his community, and as a ski instructor where he shared his love for the slopes with countless students. Dick was also a successful entrepreneur, co-owning a company that specialized in installing elevators. His work ethic and skills were unmatched, and he took great pride in every job he completed.

In later years, Dick enjoyed a different pace of life as a cashier at Walmart, where he worked for 10 years. He loved the people he worked with and formed lasting friendships with both coworkers and customers alike. Dick also helped his wife, Bonnie with her cat rescue.

Dick’s interests were as varied as his career. He was an avid NASCAR fan, a passionate sailor, and a lover of music and dancing. Whether he was fixing or building something, sharing a laugh with friends, or enjoying his morning coffee and a beer at the local watering hole, Dick lived every moment to the fullest. His ability to bring joy and laughter to those around him was one of his most cherished gifts.

Dick is survived by his wife, Bonnie Edstrom; his stepdaughter, Leanne Stemmer; his sisters, Joanne Ahmad and Molly Forsberg and many nieces, nephews, and close friends who will remember him with fondness and admiration.

A viewing was held Thursday, August 29, 2024, at Anderson’s Tribute Center. Dick will be laid to rest at Willamette National Cemetery.

Rest in peace, Dick. You will be forever missed but never forgotten.

Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center • 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031. Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.

Obituary: Lawrence Black, Jr., 72, of The Dalles

Our family mourns the loss of Lawrence Black, Jr., 72, of The Dalles, who passed away on July 26th.

Larry Black, Jr. was born to Lawrence Sr and Barbara Black, July 23rd, 1952, in Renton, WA, joining big sister Meredith.

When his dad left Boeing for civil service, the family moved to Alaska, where Bonnie was born. Next, they were called to Guam, a young boy’s paradise, where Larry played “Mowgli” in the jungle! Meredith remembers being proud as Larry bravely went forward to receive Jesus as his Savior and asked for baptism at eight years old. He never wavered in his faith in God. Littlest sister Lori Ann remembers him always giving her a ride whether it be by piggyback, horseback, or on a bicycle. He taught her to ride bikes and ponies with the best of ‘em!

Moving to The Dalles, OR, after his Dad went into real estate, Larry became a “jack of all trades,” as he helped his folks with the rentals.

Larry’s love of animals led him to raise and show German Shepherds and sheep in 4H. A great passion of his was riding spirited horses and motorcycles. Naturally mechanical, he tinkered on bikes, vehicles and tractors his whole life.

Larry, Jr. graduated from Wahtonka High School in 1971, going on to Mt. Hood Community College in Gresham. He became a welder and skilled heavy equipment operator, excelling in the field. At one point while working as a foreman in Madras, Oregon he was offered an great opportunity but it meant moving the family to Montana. He chose to stay close to family and continued life in Oregon where he had met his sweetheart Sharon Brace. They met in 1972 and it wasn’t long after they were married at a little church in Cannon Beach, Oregon in 1975. They were blessed with six children, Charissa, Larry III, Andrew, Davin, Sharyl and Alvin. Son Davin was tragically lost in 2007.

Larry was always very proud of his children and their accomplishments.

His grandchildren, Rylee, Taevin, Koby, Serenity, Casey, Alexia, Lilyana, Ariana, Samantha, Alejandra, Briana, Sterling and Alvin, Jr. were a great source of pride and joy. Larry enjoyed a big family BBQ, horseplay with the grandkids, and would most times end up with one of the littles falling asleep on his lap.

Larry loved to read, researching many topics such as natural health, which he shared in hopes of helping others. He was helping Bonnie on a project when the Lord called him home. Larry will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Go rest high on that mountain, Larry.

Larry is survived by his spouse Sharon, children Charissa & Terry, Larry III & Tiffany, Andrew & Carolyn, Sharyl & Oscar, and Alvin & Seth, grandchildren Rylee, Taevin, Koby, Serenity, Casey, Alexia, Lilyana, Ariana, Samantha, Alejandra, Briana, Sterling, and Alvin, Jr.; siblings Meredith, Bonnie, and Lori Ann; and other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Lawrence Sr & Barbara Black, brother-in-law Alan Hare, and beloved son Davin Black

A visitation will be on August 17th from 1-3 p.m. at Spencer Libby & Powell Funeral Home, followed by a memorial gathering at Bargeway Pub from 4-6 p.m. Burial will be at Odd Fellows Cemetery at a later date.