Klickitat County WA

Biography of Hon. James B. Reavis

Hon. James B. Reavis, born in 1848 in Missouri and educated in Kentucky, has been a steadfast advocate for public justice throughout his legal career. Noted for his integrity and courage, he successfully represented vulnerable clients against powerful adversaries, such as in a high-profile case against a mob. Reavis served in the territorial council, promoting significant legislation, and has held influential positions, including on the board of regents for the State University. He remains a driving force in Yakima’s development, respected as a lawyer rather than a politician.

Biographical Sketch of Joseph M. Dinwiddie

Joseph M. Dinwiddie, born in Indiana in 1851, emerged as a prominent pioneer and businessman in Malheur County, Oregon. After moving with his family to Oregon in 1853, he established a successful stock business in Washington before relocating to Jordan Valley in 1880. Dinwiddie developed extensive land holdings, including a hotel and livery barn, while becoming a leading figure in stock raising. He married Laura E. King in 1884, and they had four children, cementing his legacy as a respected community leader.

Wishram Indians

The Wishram Indians, also known as Ilaxluit, are part of the Chinookan stock and share a dialect with the Wasco. Residing on the north side of the Columbia River in Klickitat County, their villages included locations such as Atatathlia, Gawilapchk, and Wakemap. Historical estimates suggest a population of 1,000 around 1800. Today, a town in Klickitat County retains their name, reflecting the cultural legacy of the Wishram.

Skin Indians

The Skin Indians are named after a town and are part of the Shahaptian division of the Shapwailutan linguistic stock. They lived along the Columbia River, with notable villages including Kasawi, Uchichol, and Waiyampam. Lewis and Clark referred to them as Eneeshur. Mooney’s 1928 estimate indicates that the Skin population, grouped under the general name Tapanash, numbered approximately 2,200 in 1780. Their territory extended from The Dalles to 75 miles upstream on the Columbia River.

Chilluckittequaw Indians

The Chilluckittequaw Indians, part of the Chinookan linguistic family, inhabited regions along the north side of the Columbia River in present-day Klickitat and Skamania Counties. Their villages included Itkilak, Nanshuit, and Tgasgutcu, often shared with the Klickitat. Historical records note a population decline from an estimated 3,000 in 1780 to about 2,200 in 1806. A remnant of the tribe remained near the White Salmon River until 1880, with some lingering in the Cascades into the late 19th century.

Biography of Sigmund Sichel

Sigmund Sichel, born in Bavaria in 1857, immigrated to America at 15. Initially working as a salesman in New York, he moved to Oregon seeking greater opportunities. In 1880, he established a successful mercantile business in Goldendale, becoming its youngest mayor. After a devastating fire in 1888, he relocated to Portland, where he co-founded a thriving tobacco business. His success is attributed to his effective customer relations and fair business practices, marking him as a significant figure in Portland’s business community.

French, J. A. – Obituary

J. A. French, a notable resident and early official of the county, passed away on December 30 in White Salmon, Washington. His body was transported to Enterprise for burial, and funeral services are scheduled for January 2 at 2:00 PM at the Chapel.

Ransier, David J. – Obituary

David J. Ransier, born on August 4, 1898, in Bickleton, Washington, passed away on December 30, 1983, at the Wallowa County Nursing Home in Enterprise, Oregon. A restaurateur by trade, he married Rena Ivy Morgan in 1920, who predeceased him. He is survived by a son, a daughter, three brothers, two sisters, three grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Funeral services are set for January 7 at Moro Cemetery, Moro, Oregon.

Bloom, Louis R. – Obituary

Louis R. Bloom, a lifelong resident of Wallowa County, Oregon, passed away on December 22, 1937, in Goldendale, Washington, due to a heart attack while traveling to join his wife in California. Born on August 19, 1885, he was the son of pioneer R.W. Bloom and married Minnie Fluke in 1917. The couple resided in Medford until relocating to Yakima three years prior to his death. Funeral services were held at Booth Chapel in Enterprise, with burial in the local cemetery.

Barton, Arnold – Obituary

Arnold E. Barton, born May 18, 1921, in Promise, Oregon, passed away on October 9, 2005, due to an apparent heart attack at his Goldendale, Washington home. A World War II veteran, he served as a military police officer. Barton had a career in heavy equipment operation and enjoyed music, playing guitar alongside notable performers. He is survived by his wife, Roma, stepchildren, siblings, and numerous relatives. A memorial service was held on October 17, with burial planned at Lostine Cemetery.

Akes, Esther Elaine – Obituary

Esther Elaine Akes, 86, passed away on June 27, 2006, at Evergreen Nursing Home. Born on August 23, 1919, in Pendleton, she worked as a “Rosie the Riveter” during WWII before ranching and running businesses in Washington and Milton-Freewater. A member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she served as Relief Society President and was active in 4-H. Survived by her four children, several siblings, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, she was preceded in death by her husband in 2003.

Clark, Rena – Obituary

Rena E. Clark, a longtime resident of Athena, passed away at the age of 90 on September 23, 2007, in Pendleton, Oregon. Born on April 27, 1917, in Paradise, she was one of 15 children and graduated from White Salmon High School. Rena held two marriages, to Charlie R. Tinsley and later to Everett Clark. She is survived by three sons, two daughters, and numerous grandchildren. Rena was known for her enjoyment of crossword puzzles and handiwork. Funeral services were held on September 27.

Josi, Robert E. – Obituary

Robert E. Josi, 74, of Wallowa, passed away on June 13 at St. Marys Hospital. Born on October 26, 1931, in Oregon City, he served in the Korean War and worked as a logger and rancher. He was married to Agnes Tsiatsos in 1954 and later to Bonnie Lowe in 1989. A member of the Enterprise Nazarene Church, he enjoyed horseback riding, cattle work, and family gatherings. He is survived by his children, stepchildren, grandchildren, and siblings. Memorials may be made to local charities.

Cowles, Maudetta – Obituary

Maudetta Cowles passed away on June 7, 1899, in Centerville, Washington, at the age of 22. Born on March 21, 1877, in Auxvasse, Missouri, she moved to Oregon after her mother’s death. Despite hopes for recovery during a visit to her relatives, her health deteriorated due to quick consumption. Her funeral was held at the home of E.P. McDaniel, with services conducted by Rev. H. Harris before her burial at Roseridge Cemetery. She is mourned by her father, brothers, relatives, and friends.

Pierson, Dale W. – Obituary

Dale W. Pierson, 82, of Salem and formerly of La Grande, passed away on June 2 at his home. Born on October 6, 1923, in Grafton, Nebraska, he lived in various locations before graduating from La Grande High School in 1941. He served in the Army during World War II and later earned a law degree from Willamette University. He married Elenor Hayes on July 24, 1948. Pierson is survived by his wife, siblings, and other relatives. A graveside service is scheduled for June 9 at Summerville Cemetery.

Curry, Cleo J. – Obituary

Cleo J. Curry, 77, of La Grande, passed away on May 25 at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane. Born on June 10, 1928, in Goldendale, Washington, she was a graduate of Goldendale High School and worked in accounting before becoming the payroll supervisor at Eastern Oregon College of Education. She married Warren Curry in 1968 and dedicated herself to community service and various organizations. A memorial service will be held on June 5 at the First Christian Church. She is survived by her husband, daughter, step-children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Weatherspoon, Evelyn Irene – Obituary

Evelyn Irene Weatherspoon, aged 67, passed away on March 18 in Elgin, Oregon. Born on April 18, 1939, in White Salmon, Washington, she later graduated high school in Portland before relocating to Elgin in 1984. She married Donald Weatherspoon in 1988. A bartender by profession, Evelyn cherished her family, home, and outdoor activities, particularly rock hunting. She is survived by her brother, sister, and several nieces and nephews. A celebration of her life took place at the Rockwall Grange.

Molstrom, John Adolph – Obituary

John A. Molstrom, a 93-year-old pioneer rancher from Adams, passed away on August 7, 1967, at Pendleton Community Hospital. Born on June 6, 1873, in Calumet, Michigan, he moved west at the age of three. Married to Hilda Planting in 1905, they farmed in Adams for nearly 60 years before retiring to Pendleton. A lifelong member of the Apostolic Lutheran Church, he is survived by three daughters, a brother, two sisters, seven grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are handled by Folsoms’ Funeral Chapel.

Nelson, Maria Hilda Molstrom – Obituary

Maria Hilda Nelson, aged 96, passed away on December 9, 1974, at St. Anthony Hospital in Pendleton, where she had resided for 84 years. Born on February 9, 1878, in Centerville, Washington, she married David H. Nelson in 1897, who predeceased her. They farmed initially on the Umatilla Indian Reservation before moving to Cold Springs. An active community member, she belonged to the Eastern Star, the Pendleton Woman’s Club, and the Episcopal Church. She is survived by her children, 10 grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren.

Christopher, Anna Josephine Basse [Basi] – Obituary

Mrs. Anna Josephine Christopher of Adams passed away at St. Anthony’s Hospital. Born in Centerville, Washington, in 1903, she resided in Oregon for 25 years. She is survived by her husband Walney, son Donald L., daughter Elizabeth E., father Wilhelm Basi, and three brothers, Elmer, Arthur, and Ernest Basi. Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday at 2 p.m. at Folsom’s, with interment at Olney Cemetery.