Mildred “Midge” Irene Short, 74, died peacefully at her home in Baker City on March 10, 2005. At her request, no services will be held. The family will hold a potluck wake in her honor on Saturday, March 19, at noon at the Baker County Extension Building, 2610 Grove Street in Baker City.
Midge was born Feb. 28, 1931, in Palmer, Idaho, to Archer Bradford Wayne and Irene Hack Wayne. She had three brothers and two sisters. She grew up in Baker County and graduated from Union High School. During these years she both attended and participated in rodeos.
Midge had various occupations throughout her lifetime, including stay-at-home mom, bartender, waitress and long-haul truck driver. Because of these occupations and the many adventures of her life, she traveled extensively throughout the United States. She lived in many communities throughout the area but spent most of her time in Baker City and Madras.
She was a passionate reader, a history buff, and an excellent cook. She was a tremendous storyteller and shared her joy and knowledge of the places she had been and people she had met with great humor, wit and sass, often leaving her listeners with sore sides and cheeks wet from laughing. She was a generous soul, known for taking in strays, both people and pets, becoming “Mom” to many people, and a valuable friend who will be greatly missed.
Midge had three children, Joni Lee Nagel, Calvin Loran “Bill” Elliott and Laurence Eric “Boo” Short.
Midge is survived by her husband, Lester “Shorty” Short; her two sons; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and numerous extended family members and many friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter, her sisters, and one brother.
The family requests no flowers. Donations in her memory can be made to Lester “Shorty” Short. This may be done through the Coles Funeral Home, 1950 Place St., Baker City, OR 97814.
Used with permission from: Baker City Herald, Baker City, Oregon, March 18, 2005
Transcribed by: Belva Ticknor