Death Notice: Barbara Ann Fridley, 96, Goldendale

Barbara Ann Fridley, age 96, a resident of Goldendale, WA, passed away on October 1, 2024.

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

Death Notice: Iva Jean Barlow, 91, Tygh Valley

Iva Jean Barlow, age 91, a resident of Tygh Valley, OR, passed away on September 29, 2024.

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

Death Notice: Idasari Y Carabantes, 6, The Dalles

Idasari Y Carabantes, de 6 años, residente de The Dalles, Oregón, falleció el 29 de septiembre de 2024. El velatorio se llevará a cabo el viernes 4 de octubre de 10 a.m. a 1 p.m. en la funeraria Spencer, Libby and Powell en The Dalles, seguido de un servicio junto a la tumba en la ceremonia católica de San Pedro a las 2 p.m. en The Dalles. En memoria del amor de Isdari por los unicornios y su brillante personalidad, le pedimos a la gente que use colores brillantes para el servicio si se siente cómodo. Spencer Libby y Powell Funeral Home se encargan de los arreglos.

Idasari Y Carabantes, age 6, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on September 29th, 2024. A viewing will be held on Friday, October 4th from 10 AM-1 PM at the Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in The Dalles, followed by a Graveside Service at St. Peter’s Catholic Ceremony at 2 PM in The Dalles. In memory of Isdari’s love for unicorns and her bright personality, we are asking people to wear bright colors to the service if comfortable. Spencer Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Death Notice: Charity Ann Mahan, 75. The Dalles

Charity Ann Mahan, age 75, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on September 27, 2024.

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

Obituary: Manuel “Manny” Escobar Tactay Jr., 87, Hood River

Manuel “Manny” Escobar Tactay Jr., our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed away peacefully on September 27, 2024, at 87 years old. 

Manny was born on December 21, 1936, to Manuel and Benilda Tactay in Santo Domingo, Ilocos Sur, and raised in Sulvec, Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. He was the third child (firstborn son) of eleven children. His birth name was Tomas, but as an infant, he was very sickly; so due to superstitious beliefs, his parents changed his name to Manuel.

Manny initially met his future bride, Terencia “Terri” (Cabudol) in high school, but their relationship flourished after college.  On January 2, 1965, Manny and Terri were married and blessed with two children, Tiffany, born in 1966, and Troy, born in 1968.  Terri dreamed of moving to the United States for a better opportunity to improve their quality of life. After being approved as a professional CPA in January 1971, she moved to Honolulu, Hawaii leaving her young children and spouse behind.   Manny, with the help of their tight-knit family, cared for Tiffany and Troy. They communicated through weekly letters until they reunited on November 14, 1971. Together Manny and Terri built a wonderful life, teaching their children the value of hard work, family, faith, and the importance of education.

In 1976, Manny and Terri became US Citizens. He worked as a foreman for Hawaiian Dredging and a superintendent for SCI working on the H-3 Viaduct. He had a green thumb, growing papaya, guava, mango, and a variety of Filipino vegetables. After being a partner in a construction firm, Integrated Builders, Inc., and owning a painting company, Hawaii Pacific Painting, Inc., he proudly built his own house in a gated community in Makaha, HI, where they lived for 14 years.

Family meant everything to Manny. He enjoyed family reunions, showing his family visitors around town, and keeping up with his siblings and other extended family members through letters and phone calls. After he and Terri became grandparents, they wanted to be closer to their children and grandkids. After they retired, in August 2004, they moved to Hood River to be near their son, Troy, and his growing family.

Manny is survived by his wife, Terri Tactay; his children, Tiffany (Mark) Murphy, and Troy Tactay; grandchildren, Conor (Victoria) Murphy, Sean (Jennifer) Murphy, Malia Murphy, Jonah Tactay, Keone Tactay, Lilah Tactay; great-granddaughter, Isabelle Murphy; siblings, Fe Villamor, Remigio (Norma) Tactay, Estrella (Johnny) Franco, Norman Tactay, and Noemi Tactay; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A Catholic Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 5th, 2024 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church (1501 Belmont Ave, Hood River, Oregon).  Graveside Rites will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.  A reception will follow Manny’s graveside service at Anderson's Tribute Center (1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon). 

Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family or to watch a live stream of Manny’s funeral mass.

Death Notice: Delores Sharon Foster “Dee”, 76, Carson

Delores Sharon Foster “Dee” of Carson, Washington passed away September 22nd, 2024, in Vancouver, Washington. Dee was born 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.      

Death Notice: Rosalie Harris, 79, The Dalles

Rosalie Harris, age 79, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away September 25, 2024.

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

Obituary: Sharon Louise Cyphers, 76, The Dalles

“Sharon and Steve were married on September 12th, 1964; they celebrated their 60-year anniversary the day before she passed. ”

Sharon Louise Cyphers of The Dalles, Oregon, went home to be with Jesus on September 13th, 2024. Sharon was born on October 18th, 1947, in Newberg, Oregon, to Ellsworth and Beulah Hubbell. The youngest of three children, she was preceded in death by both of her parents as well as her brother Larry Hubbell of The Dalles. Her sister Beverley Bassette resides in Hollywood, California.

Sharon was a lover of life, and people. Her childhood encompassed many adventures, and she loved the outdoors. Fishing, climbing trees, exploring her territory were a few favorites. Sharon would find joy in it all. Her Father was a Teacher and Pastor with The Church of Christ whose work took them throughout Oregon, from Newberg to Dundee to Roseburg to Maupin. She loved each place, but had a special fondness for the “bake oven” hills of Maupin. She had great memories of sitting on those hills with sister Beverley watching the day go by. At age 11, Sharon’s Mother Beulah passed away suddenly not long after they had moved back to the Portland area. It was there that she attended Columbia Christian School. Five years later, at age 16 she graduated as Valedictorian of her graduating class and met her lifetime partner Steve. Shortly after school she moved to The Dalles, Oregon, to be closer to Steve and his family.

Sharon and Steve were married on September 12th, 1964; they celebrated their 60-year anniversary the day before she passed.

From the moment they met, they knew God had a grand plan for their lives. Two years after they married, they had their first child, John. Within another year and a half, their second child James came along. Sharon and Steve moved to Southern California with their two young boys to be near her sister Beverley and seek an adventure for them and their sons. After a couple of years, they decided they missed Oregon too much and came home to The Dalles.

Not long after returning they had their third child, a daughter Geneva. She was named after Steve’s Mother who passed away only a few months before their daughter was born. About two years later their fourth child, and third Son Joshua was born. Not long after that they moved their family to a lovely property in the midst of the cherry orchards surrounding The Dalles.

Life was always filled with family, friends, and celebration. A loving and supportive wife, and Mother Sharon was always caring for and thinking of others. She didn’t meet a person who wasn’t instantly welcomed into her home and her heart. Even if you hadn’t seen her for years, she would welcome you like family. She was well known for her contagious, distinctive laugh and her children knew that if they could not find her in the store all they had to do was listen for her laugh. Their childhood summers were filled with cousins and friends coming to visit and Sharon always saw to it they had a great time.

For the next thirty years they would move between The Dalles and Portland, but in 2000 they moved permanently back to The Dalles where she spent the remainder of her life. A lifelong learner, Sharon continued earning degrees as she attended multiple colleges well into her 40s. Sharon was a wiz at math and had an extensive memory. It never failed if one stopped by for an evening visit that they might find Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy playing at the house. Forget about trying to answer any of the questions, she’d be shouting them out before the question was fully asked. She even had the opportunity to go on a local game show called On The Spot, and to try out for Wheel of Fortune with her son Josh. Sharon was a dedicated worker and worked many jobs throughout her life. Her last two careers were 20 years for NW Natural Gas, and then in her last ten years of work before retirement she taught at Colonel Wright Elementary in the Title One program.

Though her dream was to be a Marine Biologist, she loved working with the kids and her job brought her much fulfillment. Over the years she would run into students in town who recognized her and would have a kind word of appreciation for her, this brought her pure joy. In her free time, she took up hobbies like advocating for animals, bird watching and spent evenings with her telescope learning about the constellations. She loved taking long walks near the water, and continually marveled at the beauty of where she lived, the Columbia River Gorge. Oftentimes she met friends for lunch, or even at the grocery store for a laughter filled chat.

Even with such a full life, Sharon’s greatest fulfillment and joy was her husband, 4 children, 8 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. She loved each one with all she had. The years beheld a plethora of fantastical holiday gatherings that often included her beloved siblings, nieces, and nephews as well. Sharon loved to host the holidays, Christmas being her favorite. The counters and table would be decked out with delicious goodies and a mouthwatering dinner every time. Popcorn Christmas trees, nuts to crack, homemade fudge, and much more come to mind, many of which were set for delivery to a family friend. She had an exceptional gift of picking just the right present for every member of the family, as well as being available for each person individually aside from that. She knew how to make you feel loved.

Sharon is survived by her husband, Steven Cyphers of The Dalles. Son, John Cyphers, granddaughters, Luna and Margaux Cyphers all of Beaverton. Son, James Cyphers, grandson, Weslee Cyphers, wife Hannah and great-grandchildren, Norah Lou and Oliver, granddaughter Emily Mortenson, husband Jim, and great-grandchildren Emmitt and Hazel all of The Dalles. Daughter, Geneva Snow, grandson Caleb Snow of The Dalles, granddaughter Caitlan Snow, husband Izaac and great-grandsons Eli, Mason, and Beckham of Minnesota. Son, Josh Cyphers, wife Cathy and grandsons Hayden (University of Idaho) and Tucker Cyphers of Beaverton.

Sister, Beverley Bassette of Hollywood, sister-in-law, Charlotte Cyphers of Portland, and stepsister, Bennye Wright of Vancouver. Many beloved aunties, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and “adopted” kids. She was also preceded in death by her beloved niece, Cindi Garver of The Dalles, stepmother, Aleda Hubbell of Vancouver, and brother-in-law David Cyphers of Portland.

There will be a public viewing at Spencer Libby and Powell in The Dalles Friday, October 18th from 12:00-8:00. A private family burial on Saturday, October 19th, followed by a Celebration of Life on October 19th at 1:00 pm at the Mid-Columbia Church of Christ in Dallesport, Washington, where everyone is welcome.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the local paramedics, police department, and its Chaplain who showed great kindness on the day of Sharon’s passing, Mid-Columbia Church of Christ for their continued time and love, and to all of the wonderful family and dear friends who’ve come to visit, called and brought flowers and food. You are appreciated more than you know.

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

Death Notice: Jason Doyle Walls, 56, The Dalles

Jason Doyle Walls, age 56, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on September 23, 2024.

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

Service Announcement: Martha Dressler Goff, 99, The Dalles

Martha Dressler Goff, age 99, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on September 14, 2024.

A Graveside Service will be held October 11, 2024, 2:00 PM at St. Peter Catholic Cemetery in The Dalles, OR. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

Death Notice: James Donald Calmer, 95, Mosier

James Donald Calmer, age 95, a resident of Mosier, OR, passed away on September 21, 2024.

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: Laurene Lou (Hayzlett) Sallee, 85, The Dalles

Laurene Lou Hayzlett

Laurene Lou Sallee, born February 16, 1938, in Portland, Oregon, to Marietta Cross-Hayzlett and Andrew Hayzlett, passed peacefully on September 21, 2024.

Laurene’s family moved to The Dalles around 1949, where she graduated from The Dalles High School in 1954. In 1970, she married Bill Sallee, the love of her life, and together they shared 54 wonderful years. While raising her four children, Laurene balanced various jobs and activities, though her true passion lay in caring for her family.

A dedicated gardener, Laurene spent countless hours cultivating her garden, experimenting with different plants and landscaping ideas. Her beautiful garden was featured in a local garden tour, a proud moment for her. Laurene also had a knack for creating beautiful flower arrangements, once transforming the woodshed into a flower shed where she sold dried arrangements and rustic benches made by Bill.

Family was at the heart of Laurene’s life. She loved hosting gatherings, holidays, and celebrations, cherishing the time spent with her children, grandchildren, and extended family, including her brothers and the many reunions with the Hayzlett and Sallee families. She also had a special fondness for the Oregon Coast, where countless joyful memories were made.

Laurene loved to travel. Her and Bill went on many road trip adventures across the United States and Canada, often meeting up with her best friend, Dawn Galliano, and her husband, Bruno, along the way.

She is survived by her four children: son Paul Sallee and daughters Tina (Brett) Kaseberg, Dawn (Jeff) Sallee-Justesen, and Nancy Sallee; her grandchildren Stephanie, Stacey, Casey, Cody, Corin, Shelby, Hollee, Maggie, Hunter, Nathan, and Lilly; ten amazing great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

Laurene was preceded in death by her brothers Dick, Roland, Wesley, Winston, and Frank; her parents; her grandson William Justesen; and her cherished friend Dawn Galliano.

A memorial gathering will be held on October 4th at 1 PM at the Bargeway Pub Event Space.

Death Notice: Lynde Sue Fink Curtis, 70, White Salmon

Lynde Sue Fink Curtis

Lynde Sue Fink Curtis of Klickitat, Washington passed away September 21st , 2024, in White Salmon, Washington with her daughter and granddaughter by her side.

Lynde was born January 29th, 1954 in White Salmon, Washington, she was 70 years of age at the time of passing. Memorial Services in Klickitat are pending and will be announced soon.

Arrangements are under the direction of Gardner Funeral Home (156 NE Church Avenue, White Salmon, Washington). Visit www.GardnerFH.com to share a story or leave a note for the family.

Death Notice: Alan Winans, 88, Hood River

Alan Winans passed away on September 19th, 2024 in Hood River, Oregon. Alan was born August 3rd, 1936, and was 88 years of age at the time of passing.  

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

Obituary: Stephen Kelly Ford, 66, Hood River

Stephen grew up in Edgecliff, Texas (a small community outside Fort Worth) and was the oldest of three brothers. Adventure, Life Experiences, and Family were always a top priority in the Ford house; every summer, the family would road trip to new destinations, which always included visiting extended family.

Stephen preferred to spend most of his free time outdoors, making friends and creating adventures wherever possible. Whether riding his motorcycle or trying to teach the family walking horse to buck, Stephen was an instigator of fun and a lover of animals.

 From a young age, Stephen was drawn to alternative sports like rock climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, rodeo, hockey, rugby, and windsurfing. During college, Stephen joined the pro rodeo circuit as a rough stock rider, where he attempted, sometimes successfully, to stay on bucking broncos bareback and riding bulls. Success meant bringing home a few belts, several knocked-out teeth, and usually just enough money to get him to the next event. Through rodeo, he made lifelong friends Stephen would always refer to as family.

 During his early years, Stephen learned the value of hard work. Whether bucking hay, working in construction in the Texas heat, or driving heavy machinery, Stephen never shied away from the tough jobs, and he always found a way to “cowboy up and git R done!”

 Stephen attended Texas Tech University, where he was a member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity; the University of Wyoming, where he earned a Bachelor of Science with a major in Geology; and Texas Christian University, where he studied Real Estate, Finance, and Accounting. An opportunity to take on a foreign assignment with General Dynamics prevented him from completing his master’s degree.

 As a global logistics manager on F-16 programs at General Dynamics, Stephen helped families relocate to overseas positions successfully. His work took him to Taiwan, Korea, and Israel. These experiences profoundly shaped his perspective and deepened his appreciation for his U.S. citizenship.

 Once back in the United States, Stephen took a "walkabout" in his truck camper, seeking new adventures and the perfect place to begin the next phase of his life. He found it in Bend, Oregon, where he settled down with his first wife, Marsha, whom he met while mountain biking in Utah. In Bend, he embarked on a remarkable career in commercial real estate.

 In 2003, Stephen met his second wife, Karen, through a mutual friend and mentor. Their relationship led to the most epic adventure of his life: raising their son, Parker. The family moved to Hood River in 2005, where Stephen became a vibrant and committed community member. Though they divorced in 2020, Stephen and Karen's dedication to co-parenting Parker in the family home led to a strengthened relationship, marked by mutual respect and friendship that has endured to this day.

 Stephen was known by many of his colleagues as a compassionate person who happened to be a commercial broker. His motto in or outside work was always "treat others as you want to be treated." Therefore, he approached most interactions with empathy, honesty, politeness, and respect. He even gave random telemarketers the courtesy of his time before politely declining their call while offering them feedback and ideas.

 Stephen earned the CCIM designation, demonstrating his expertise in commercial real estate, investment, market, and financial analyses. He mentored many in the Portland and Columbia Gorge communities and was a valuable resource for discussing potential commercial investments.

 Forever grateful to be a part of this community, Stephen was always eager to give back. He did so through his various affiliations, such as the Rotary Club, where he served one term as Hood River Chapter President, as a Lego League Robotics Coach, as a multi-year trail guide at Mountain Bike Oregon, and by working to improve mountain bike trails and elk habitat.

 Once Parker reached high school, Stephen vigorously pursued his burgeoning passions for fly fishing and bow hunting. He eventually bought a camper and began planning his retirement, which included cruising around the US to hunt, fish, and mountain bike with friends.

 In early June of this year, just one year into semi-retirement, Stephen received the shocking news of metastatic bladder cancer. He faced this diagnosis head-on with determination. His due diligence in investigating treatment options led him to join an immunotherapy trial at MD Anderson in Houston before cystectomy. Three days after his first infusion, Stephen fell ill and began to decline quickly. While many believed his discomfort was due to an adverse reaction to the therapy, a scan eventually revealed radical metastasis, including bone cancer.

 Through his swift decline, Stephen was surrounded by love. His dear friends in Houston, Karen, younger brother Roger, Parker, his deeply committed sister and brother-in-law, and the expert team at Providence Hospice supported him. It should be noted that before entering hospice, Stephen received the most loving and professional care from the 2nd-floor nurses and CNAs at Providence Hood River, a nurturing experience for which his family is forever grateful.

 Here are a few of Stephen's favorite things: family, Tex Mex, Texas BBQ, a top-shelf margarita, live music, playing guitar, hitting the trails on his mountain bike or with a ruck, tracking elk, archery, trap shooting, fly fishing, smoking meat, camping with friends, and the Dallas Cowboys.

 Stephen is survived by his loving son, Parker; his ex-wife and life partner, Karen; his younger brother, Roger; his nieces and nephews, Raegan, Romy, Ryan, Johnny, Jessica, and Jake; his in-laws, Gordie, Mike, Cathy, Crystal, and Sandy; numerous awesome cousins and his sweet dog, Migo. Our hearts mourn, but we know Stephen is finally pain-free and conjuring another adventure from heaven while reuniting with his deceased parents and brother, Larry.

 SERVICE

 Private family services will be held in Hood River, Oregon, and Fort Worth, Texas. Throughout the year, celebrations of life will be planned for Stephen's community of close friends, colleagues, and extended relatives.

 Instead of flowers, please consider donating to the Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund in honor of Stephen. The fund invests in projects that connect youth and families in diverse and underserved communities to the outdoors, as well as programs that restore healthy ecosystems to benefit Oregon's fish and wildlife and improve the health of our environment for future generations.

 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.

Celebration of Life: Cheryl Atkins, The Dalles

October 19, 2024, at Eagles Lodge, 700 W 8th, The Dalles, OR. The Marriott is next door if you are joining from out of town and looking for a place to stay.

4 p.m. to 7 p.m. is remembering Cheryl and sharing memories (write them down if you want to read or have someone read but can also leave with the family to feel your love for Cheryl). Pictures and videos of Cheryl's life of fun with friends and family will be enjoyed. Eagles Auxiliary provides sliders, coffee, tea, and punch, we welcome any potluck food and there will be a bar available if you want other beverages.

BIG RIVER BLUES BAND 7-10 p.m. on the band stage, after we share memories with family and all friends who want to join. With Cheryl in our hearts, we will dance the evening away. Open to the public, non-member cover charge 3.00. Eagles Lodge. Come whenever you can.

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

Death Notice: Joan Christine Pifher, 82, The Dalles

Joan Christine Pifher, age 82, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away on September 7, 2024.

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

Obituary: Jean Louise Greiner, 91, The Dalles

It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that we inform you of the death of Jean Louise Greiner who went on to embrace her loved ones that preceded her in death on August 27, 2024, at the age of 91.

Jean was born on June 26, 1933, to Miranda (Peggy) and Arthur Howell. She attended The Dalles High School before marrying Joseph H. Greiner in 1954. Jean worked as a Domestic Goddess raising seven children while also attending to the needs of farming life. She also worked 20+ years as a seasonal employee at the Oregon Cherry Growers.

She was a shining example of kindness, empathy, and bringing Joy to those around her. Jean was preceded in death by her husband Joseph Greiner Sr., Daughter Kathy Adams, Son Joseph Greiner Jr., Daughter Susan Pezzeti, Son Thomas Greiner, Her parents, Peggy and Arthur Howell, her Brothers Duane, Dick, and Alan Howell and her Sister Betty Harlan.

She is survived by Daughter Diana Shields, Daughter Patty and Husband Tim Latham, Daughter Annette Heideman, Grand Children B.J Lynch, Tony Lynch (Wife Angie), Stephanie and Kevin Shields, Curtis Pezzeti, Jacob Latham, Kalvin Latham (Wife Marissa), Dustin Heideman (Wife Angela), Tom Heideman, Joseph and Nicholas Greiner, and many Great Grand Children.

A Graveside Service is scheduled for Friday, September 6, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at St. Peter’s Cemetery. Spencer Libby & Powell are in charge of arrangements.

Obituary: James Wilson Wham, 75, The Dalles

James Wilson Wham, 75, passed peacefully into heaven on May 6, 2024, in his home, The Dalles Oregon, after a year-long battle with cancer. Jim was born June 13, 1948, in Walla Walla, Washington to Roy Albert “Abie” Wham and Wilma Lorraine Amis.

The family moved next to Kinzua in Wheeler County, where Abie was a foreman of the dry chain at the Kinzua planer mill, and from there to Dayville in about 1952. In 1956 they moved to John Day, where Jim’s mother remarried Robert Edward Larkin. Jim attended Grant Union High School and graduated in 1966. He served in The United States Army in Thailand during the Vietnam War.

Then worked at Bob Larkin’s Arco station, as a mechanic and drove gas and oil delivery trucks until the mid-seventies when he discovered his deep talent in photography. That led to the lifelong career he loved. In 1983 Jim married Wendy Wiggins and moved to The Dalles where they made their home. Jim became a professional portrait, sports, and school photographer.

He and Wendy operated Cascade Color Lab, a one-hour photo processing lab in the Columbia Gorge. He relished scenic night and Milky Way photography and won an award for his spectacular photo of The Hale Bopp Comet. Jim loved to garden. His tomato crop was legendary, often covering one side of the house in the summer.

He was preceded in death by his father Roy “Abie” Wham, stepfather Robert Larkin, mother Wilma Larkin, and his sisters Donna Walter, Cherill Oury, and Lori Larkin. He is survived by his wife Wendy Wham, son James E. Wham, daughter Melody Blackwell, grandchildren Izzak Heiser, Mary Jayne Heiser, David Blackwell, Scarlett Blackwell, Baylee Rue Wham and great-grandson Leon Jones.

A Military Graveside service will be held on October 19, 2024, at 1:00 pm at the Dayville Cemetery, with a Celebration of Life following, at the Dayville Community Hall.