La Grande, Oregon
Calvin H. Whitnah, 70, of Richland, died Aug. 10 at his home. A funeral service will begin at 2 p.m. Friday at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Halfway. A vault interment will follow at the Eagle Valley Cemetery in Richland. A reception will take place at the New Bridge Grange.
The Observer – August 12, 2008
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Calvin Hugh Whitnah, 70, of Richland and formerly of La Grande, died Aug. 10 at his home.
A funeral service will begin at 2 p.m. Friday at the LDS Chapel in Halfway, with a viewing to run from 1 to 1:45 p.m. Burial will follow at the Richland Cemetery. Friends and neighbors are invited to attend a memorial potluck at 5 p.m. Friday at Newbridge Grange. Coles Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Calvin was born June 6, 1938, to Harvey Marshall and Clarice Ann (Harwood) Whitnah in Rupert, Idaho. Growing up in Richland, Calvin was active in 4-H, football, basketball, hunting and helping run the family ranch.
After graduating from Eagle Valley High School, Calvin studied at the Northrop Institute of Technology in California to become an airplane mechanic. Fortunately, he was unable to find work in California, and found himself back at home in Richland. Acting as chauffeur to a group of friends, he met Emma Louise Koch in New Meadows, Idaho. They married there May 17, 1959.
Calvin and Emma moved often, settling down for 10 years in Aloha where they raised three boys: Wes, now of Aloha; Mike, now of La Grande; and Don, now of Orem, Utah. Spare time was spent with family going to the coast and rock hunting. Leaving the Portland area, Calvin and Emma also lived in Ontario and La Grande.
Trading airplanes for trucks, Calvin was a diesel mechanic for several major trucking companies and the State of Oregon. Calvin was often recognized for his skill and hard work.
Following his retirement, Calvin and Emma returned to Richland. Calvin kept busy working for his brother, Warren, helping to work the same land that he grew up on. He was always eager to take the grandkids out to feed the horses and play in the hay.
Calvin was a regular participant in local parades, driving an antique tractor he restored. Calvin spent his last day doing what those who knew him best knew him to do — helping others and looking forward to seeing his grandchildren.
Calvin is survived by a brother; wife; three sons; and 12 grandchildren. Calvin was preceded in death by his parents.
The Observer – August 14, 2008