Ashland Oregon

Biography of Capt. Thomas Smith

Captain Thomas Smith, born in 1809 in Kentucky, played a vital role as a pioneer and Indian fighter in Southern Oregon. After traveling to Texas and crossing the plains to California, he settled in Oregon, establishing one of the area’s first settlements near Ashland. Smith’s interactions with local tribes were marked by both conflict and cooperation, including notable agreements with Chief Tipsy. He participated in several Indian wars, leading volunteer efforts. Later, he was elected to the legislature and remained an active and respected figure until his later years.

Biography of George O. Sampson

George O. Sampson, born in Siskiyou, California, in 1853, was a prominent figure in Silver City, Idaho. Educated primarily in Portland, Oregon, he became a mechanical engineer and worked in journalism before establishing a successful engineering career in mining. In 1893, he expanded into the livery business, managing a leading ranch and livery stable in the region. Active in politics, he represented Owyhee County in the territorial legislature and served on various committees. A member of the Knights of Pythias and Masonic lodge, he was known for his integrity and commitment to public service.

Steinbeck, J. D. – Obituary

J.D. Steinbeck, born on May 19, 1915, in La Grande, passed away on January 31, 2009, at age 93 in John Day’s Country Spice Assisted Living Center. He graduated from La Grande High School and Boeing Aircraft School, serving as a U.S. Army diesel mechanic instructor. Steinbeck worked in various agricultural roles and managed several businesses, including Inland Machinery Co. and a motel. He was involved in community services, including the Westland Water District Board, and is survived by his son Don and extended family.

Wood, Timothy – Obituary

Timothy Joel Wood, 57, of La Grande, passed away on October 10, 2009, due to a rapidly growing brain tumor. Born on October 21, 1951, in Abilene, Texas, he moved to Oregon in 1953. Timothy served in the Navy and held various jobs throughout his life, eventually retiring due to a back injury. He was active in the Union County Search and Rescue and had a passion for rock crawling with his Jeep. He is survived by his mother and siblings. Funeral services will be held on October 24.

King, Josephine Nancy – Obituary

Josephine Nancy King, 87, of Ashland, Oregon, passed away at Ashland General Hospital after a brief illness. Born on November 14, 1863, in Union County, she had lived in Ashland for 24 years. She was a dedicated member of the Baptist church and the Ashland Rebekah Lodge, where she served as Past Noble Grand. Survived by her son Bert Cook and two sisters, she was preceded in death by her husband George and a son, James. Funeral services are scheduled for Thursday at Litwiller Funeral Home.

King, George W. King – Obituary

George W. King, a long-time resident of Ashland, Oregon, died at age 75 from a heart attack. Born on February 22, 1869, he lived in Lake County before moving to Ashland around 1900, where he managed the Ashland Hotel and worked at the city power house. A member of the Baptist Church, he is survived by his wife, Nancy Josephine, and five stepsons. Funeral services are set for Friday at Stock Chapel, with interment at Mountain View Cemetery.

Cook, J.A. – Obituary

J.A. Allie Cook, a long-time resident of Ashland and owner of The Reception Pool Hall, passed away at his High Street home today due to a prolonged illness. His death occurred shortly after noon. Funeral arrangements will be managed by the Litwiller Funeral Home and announced later. Cook, born James Alvin Cook in Wallowa County, Oregon, was the son of Thomas Richard and Nancy Josephine Hammack-Cook-King.

Savage, Carl D. – Obituary

Carl Dean Savage, a former Haines resident, passed away on July 21 in Yreka, California. His funeral was held in Haines, with burial at the local cemetery. Born on March 30, 1871, in Oregon, he moved to Baker County as a child and ran a feed store with his brother. After living in Haines, he relocated to Ashland. At the time of his death, he was engaged in mining. He is survived by a daughter and several siblings across various states.

Kinnison, Beulah Adelia Starmer Mrs. – Obituary

Mrs. Beulah Adelia Kinnison, 56, passed away on Tuesday at St. Elizabeth hospital. Born on May 6, 1901, in Ashland, she moved to Baker 39 years ago. Recently, she was co-owner and manager of the Corset Clinic. A member of the Pythian Sisters and the Methodist church, she is survived by her mother, three daughters, a son, siblings, and six grandchildren. Funeral services are scheduled for Thursday at West and Company chapel, with interment at Mt. Hope.

Schock, Berniece Parker Mrs. – Obituary

Berniece Schock, 71, of Hermiston, passed away on November 10, 2004, at Good Shepherd Medical Center. Born on October 11, 1933, in Baker City to Clifford and Cecelia Parker, she married Harold H. Schock in 1952. After residing in various locations, she returned to Baker City in 1994. An active community member, she enjoyed embroidery and gardening. She is survived by four sons, two brothers, 13 grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Her graveside service will be held at Eternal Hills Cemetery in Klamath Falls.

Biography of Eli K. Anderson

Eli K. Anderson, born in Indiana in 1826, was a significant figure in the development of Southern Oregon’s fruit industry and a dedicated temperance advocate. A miner, Indian fighter, and horse thief pursuer, he journeyed to California in 1849. Anderson discovered gold at Scott bar and later pursued horse thieves through challenging terrains. In 1852, he settled in Rogue River Valley, engaging in agriculture and holding various local offices. He owned extensive land and mills, and was devoted to his family and community.

Rykken, Clarence Norman – Obituary

Clarence Norman Rykken, 67, passed away on March 10, 2006, in Baker City, Oregon. Originally from Ashland, he served in the U.S. Army and worked for the Forest Service until his retirement in 1995. He married Layle Bostwick in 1966, and they lived in various locations before settling in Baker City in 1997. A celebration of his life will be held at the First Presbyterian Church. He is survived by his wife, daughter, son-in-law, grandchildren, and two sisters.

Biography of John Marshall McCall

John Marshall McCall, born on January 15, 1825, in Pennsylvania, was a significant figure in Southern Oregon’s development. A pioneer, he moved to Iowa in 1840 and later traveled to Oregon, where he worked a mining claim in Jackson County. During the 1855-56 Indian War, he defended his community and later served in the Civil War as a lieutenant and then captain. McCall contributed to local industry by establishing the Ashland Woolen Mills and a mercantile business, and he served in the state legislature. He had two marriages and three children.