Prairie City Oregon

Taylor Brothers

John and Solomon Taylor, known as Taylor Bros., are Ohio natives who settled in the area in the 1860s. Initially engaged in mining, they transitioned to farming near Prairie City in 1881, cultivating 640 acres. In 1891, they acquired the Prairie City Roller Mills, a modern facility that benefits local farmers by providing fair prices for wheat and reducing transport costs. Their business has expanded significantly, prompting plans for a new three-story building. Solomon Taylor currently serves as a county commissioner.

Biographical Sketch of Dr. V. C. Balkans

Dr. V. C. Belknap, a prominent physician in Prairie City, was born in 1871 near Corvallis, Oregon. He completed his education in Prineville and Portland, graduating from Jefferson Medical College in 1894. After practicing briefly in Philadelphia, he established his practice in Prairie City in January 1895. Known for his compassionate care and friendly demeanor, he has gained the affection of the community. Dr. Belknap is married to Clara McHaley and is an active member of several fraternal organizations and the Oregon Medical Society.

Biography of Cornelius G. Morehead

Cornelius G. Morehead, born on June 26, 1865, in Linn County, Oregon, comes from a pioneering family that settled in the Willamette Valley in 1848. His father, a millwright, built Oregon’s first mill in Salem. After relocating several times, Cornelius established his own farm near Nyssa in 1901, where he cultivated alfalfa and raised cattle. He married Elizabeth Ehrgood in 1899, with whom he had two daughters. An engaged Republican, Morehead actively participated in local and state affairs, embodying the progressive spirit of Oregonian citizens.

Biographical Sketch of Charles M. Jones

Charles M. Jones, born on August 13, 1836, in Hickman County, Tennessee, dedicated his life to the defense of freedom during the Civil War, enlisting in the First Arkansas Cavalry in 1862. After the war, he moved west with his family, eventually settling in Ontario, Idaho, where he became a successful farmer. Known for his integrity and commitment to community development, Jones is celebrated for his contributions and remains a respected figure, enjoying the fruits of his labor in his later years.

Gowey, O. J. – Obituary

O. J. Gowey, a beloved figure from Prairie City, passed away, as reported on Monday morning. His legacy as a cherished community elder left a lasting impact on those who knew him. He was well respected and affectionately referred to as “grandpa” by the residents of the area. His contributions to the community have been remembered fondly. This announcement was published in the Wallowa County Reporter on August 16, 1917.

Pratt, Larry Arnold – Obituary

Larry Arnold Pratt, 67, of Prairie City, Oregon, passed away on April 28, 2005, after a prolonged illness. Born on December 2, 1937, he grew up in North Powder and graduated from Powder Valley High School in 1956, gaining popularity for his athleticism. Known for his helpful nature and skills, he will be remembered fondly by his family, including his mother Edythe, sister Wanda, and numerous children and grandchildren. His graveside service is set for 2 p.m. Thursday at Haines Cemetery.

Jacoby, Nellie Althea – Obituary

Nellie Aletha Jacoby, 84, passed away on October 13 after a prolonged illness. Born on November 14, 1922, to William and Beatrice King, she was devoted to her family and enjoyed writing poetry. A graveside service took place at Prairie City Cemetery. Nellie is survived by her six children, two brothers, two sisters, 13 grandchildren, and 31 great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to the Diabetes Foundation.

Bruce, Braddie May – Obituary

Braddie May Bruce, 79, of Island City, passed away on January 11 at a local care center. Born on January 26, 1928, in Prairie City, she was raised in Dayville and graduated high school there. She married Ralph Bruce on January 12, 1947, and worked as a school secretary in various towns. An active community member, she participated in the Episcopal Church and several organizations. Survived by her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Clark, Raymond – Obituary

Raymond Harlo Clark, 70, of John Day, passed away on April 20, 2005, at St. Elizabeth Health Services, with no memorial service per his request. Born on August 6, 1934, in La Grande, he lived in several Oregon locations before establishing a long career with Edward Hines Lumber Co. after graduating high school in 1952. He is survived by his wife Janis, their children, three grandchildren, and three sisters. He enjoyed outdoor activities like hunting and fishing.

Patterson, Ethel Hazel Reed Mrs. – Obituary

Ethel Hazel Patterson, 97, of John Day, passed away on October 9, 2005, at Blue Mountain Nursing Home. Born on August 11, 1908, in Fox, she married John Smith in 1924 and later Carl Patterson. Ethel enjoyed various careers, including operating a dress shop and working as a beautician. Childless, she was devoted to her numerous nieces and nephews. An avid outdoorswoman, Ethel participated in family reunions and had hobbies like crocheting and fishing. She is survived by 11 nieces and 4 nephews.

DeRoest, Barbara P. DeRoest – Obituary

Barbara P. DeRoest, 85, of Prairie City, Oregon, formerly of Baker City, passed away on March 27, 2004. Born on August 6, 1918, in Baker City, she attended school there and later pursued business education in Portland. After two marriages, she worked as a secretary for various organizations until her retirement. Barbara was active in her church and enjoyed dancing and crafting. She is survived by three children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and was preceded in death by her husband, Hector DeRoest.

Pierson, Delbert, Jr. – Obituary

Delbert Francis Pierson Jr., 89, of Baker City and formerly of Prairie City and Burns, passed away on October 4, 2004. Born on February 7, 1915, in Alberta, Canada, he married Ruth Titus in 1935 and enjoyed a long, active life, including serving as a minister and participating in community activities. He is survived by his daughter, RoseAnne Day, and a large extended family. His graveside service will be held at Prairie City Cemetery, with a reception to follow.

Binyon, Malcolm “Mick” – Obituary

Malcolm “Mick” Binyon, 61, of Prairie City, Oregon, passed away on September 23, 2004. Born on January 8, 1943, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, he graduated from Smith Valley High School and served in the National Guard. Mick worked as a power company lineman and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He is survived by his wife Patricia, his mother Cora, five children, two sisters, and ten grandchildren. A private family service will be held, with memorial contributions directed to Hospice of Grant County.

Owens, Viola J. “Mike” Mrs. – Obituary

Viola J. “Mike” Owens, aged 73, passed away on March 13, 2006, at Blue Mountain Nursing Home in John Day, Oregon. Her funeral services are scheduled for March 17, 2006, at Driskill Memorial Chapel, with interment at Canyon City Cemetery. Survivors include three daughters—Kathy Moothart, Connie Lee Carstens, and Linda Phelps—along with nine grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Viola Owens Memorial Fund at Driskill Memorial Chapel.

Opperman, Paul V. – Obituary

Paul V. Opperman, 37, tragically died in an auto accident on June 6, 2006, in Hillsboro, Oregon. Born on January 2, 1969, in Ontario and raised in Prairie City, he was a 1987 graduate who cherished his roots. He had a successful 12-year career at Royal Moore Auto Center, where he forged lasting friendships. Paul was noted for his humor, generosity, and passion for family, sports, and history. His memorial service is scheduled at Fir Lawn Mortuary, followed by graveside services at Prairie City Cemetery.

Bailey, Hattie Sadie Anderson – Obituary

Hattie Sadie Bailey, 79, passed away on April 23, 1966, at Blue Mountain Nursing Home in Prairie City, Oregon, following an extended illness. Born on August 19, 1886, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, she moved to Baker in 1909 and married George E. Bailey in 1917. Mrs. Bailey’s funeral was held on April 26 at Beatty Chapel, with interment at Mt. Hope Cemetery. She is survived by her daughter Elizabeth Keller, granddaughter Ann Elizabeth Keller, and niece Violet Irwin. She was a member of the Neighbors of Woodcraft Lodge.

White, Ruby Jewel Sanders Mrs. – Obituary

Ruby Jewel White, 75, of Baker Valley, passed away at home on April 2, 2005. Born on March 3, 1930, in Shoshoni, Wyo., she graduated from Grant Union High School and spent 35 years working in moving and lumber services. A devoted mother and friend, Ruby enjoyed activities like hunting and playing the piano. She is survived by her two sons, grandchildren, brothers, and many extended family members. Memorial contributions may be made to the Powder River Sportsmans Club in her honor.

Sullens, Wilbert L. “Will” – Obituary

Wilbert L. Sullens, 79, of Medical Springs, passed away on April 4, 2005. His memorial service will be held at Coles Funeral Home, followed by a potluck reception at the VFW Hall. Born on November 3, 1925, Sullens served in the U.S. Army Air Corps and enjoyed a distinguished aviation career, including work with United Airlines and Pan Am. A skilled craftsman and political activist, he was proud of his family heritage. He is survived by his wife, Holly, children, and grandchildren.

Bales, Dennis L. – Obituary

Dennis L. Bales, 61, passed away on October 20, 2007, in Hermiston, Oregon. Born on November 16, 1945, in Prairie City, he grew up in Baker City and served in the Vietnam War as a military policeman. He later worked in the lumber industry and was married twice, first to Rosanna Fenicottero, then to Glenda G. Kloster, who passed away in 1998. Dennis enjoyed nature and cherished a relationship with a hummingbird he named Hunny. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, siblings, and extended family.

Davis, Wilma D. – Obituary

Wilma D. Davis, aged 86, passed away on January 4, 2005, in Hood River, Oregon. Born on April 20, 1918, in Prairie City, she was known for her compassion and warm smile. Wilma is survived by her brothers, nieces, and extended family spread across various states. She was preceded in death by her parents and several siblings. The family plans a burial for her ashes and suggests planting flowers in her memory, honoring her legacy with a rose garden.