Vancouver Washington

Smelcer, Lawrence J. – Obituary

Lawrence J. Smelcer, 97, a lifelong resident of Pine Valley, passed away on January 1, 2005, in Yuma, Arizona. A funeral will be held on January 10 at the Pine Valley Presbyterian Church, followed by interment at Pine Haven Cemetery. Born on August 4, 1907, he married Dorothy Romine in 1931, with whom he shared 72 years. Known for his sociable nature, Lawrence thrived in community gatherings. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, as well as extended family.

Hayes, Connie Rae DuPree Mrs. – Obituary

Connie Rae Hayes, aged 46, passed away on May 26, 2005, at her home in Durkee, Idaho. Her graveside service is scheduled for 9 a.m. PDT at Cambridge Cemetery, followed by a celebration of life at Durkee Grange Hall. Born on August 5, 1958, in Council, Idaho, Connie was a dedicated mother and enjoyed various occupations, including as a waitress and bingo caller. She is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren, and siblings. Memorial contributions can be made to Northwest Professionals, Family Resource Center.

Knoblauch, William “Bill” – Obituary

William “Bill” Knoblauch, 89, of Richland, Oregon, passed away on December 21, 2004. Born on March 11, 1915, in Portland, he grew up on his family’s ranch and graduated from Richland High School. Bill married Veda Ewing in 1935 and worked as a welder during World War II. He and Veda later moved to Baker City. Bill is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His funeral was held on December 27, 2004, with interment at Eagle Valley Cemetery.

Bukowiec-Crow-Woolf, Travis – Obituary

Travis Lane Bukowiec-Crow-Woolf, 25, of Halfway, Oregon, died in a vehicle accident on October 4, 2004. Born on December 14, 1978, in Portland, he grew up in Vancouver, Washington, and graduated from Brush Prairie High School. Travis was known for his love of life, drawing, hunting, and old cars. He is survived by his parents, siblings, and many relatives, along with his dog, Patch. He was preceded in death by his brother and uncle. Memorial contributions can be made to wildlife foundations.

Deiter, Eugene “Gene” – Obituary

Eugene “Gene” Deiter, aged 66, passed away on June 18, 2004, at his daughter’s home in Vancouver, Washington, following a prolonged illness. Born on October 17, 1937, in Rifle, Colorado, he served in the military during the Korean War and later had two marriages, first to Elaine Williams and then to Joann Kennedy. Gene worked for Edward Hines Lumber Co. for 19 years and enjoyed gardening and traveling. He is survived by his wife, children, siblings, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Woodcock, Ruth F. Metsker Mrs. – Obituary

Ruth F. Woodcock, 86, of Baker City, passed away on January 22, 2004, at St. Elizabeth Health Care Center. A memorial service was held on January 26, officiated by Sister Kay Marie Duncan. Born on August 31, 1917, in Weatherby, she married Sam Woodcock in 1936 and dedicated her life to helping others and family gatherings. Ruth was active in the Rebecca Lodge and the Methodist Church. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, with memorial contributions suggested to Pathway Hospice.

Cook, Etta Lorene Hilbert Mrs. – Obituary

Etta Lorene Cook, 89, a resident of Baker City, passed away on February 22, 2003. Born on January 20, 1914, in Pine Town, she was the daughter of Roy E. and Hazel L. Hilbert. Etta married Ralph William Cook in 1932 and worked for various organizations, including Boeing and Tektronix. She was known for her loving nature, outdoor activities, and contributions to the community. Etta is survived by her daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and service.

Gongliewski, Olivia Alsada Dillard Mrs. – Obituary

Olivia Alsada Gongliewski, aged 71, passed away on February 21, 2003, in Newberg, Oregon. Born September 25, 1930, in Spokane, Washington, she later moved to Portland and became a practical nurse and long-time employee at Tektronics. Olivia married Leonard Gongliewski in 1970 and enjoyed a life filled with faith, music, and outdoor activities. She is survived by her husband, children, siblings, and numerous grandchildren. Funeral services are set for February 25 at Attrells Newberg Chapel, with interment at Willamette National Cemetery.

Tumwater, Vancouver, Port Townsend, Washington

Tumwater, incorporated in 1869, was pivotal in Puget Sound’s early manufacturing growth. Vancouver, established as Clarke County’s seat in 1854, became home to diverse early settlers, including James Turnbull and Stephen McDonald, who contributed significantly to the community. Port Townsend, known for its strategic location, was incorporated in 1860 and attracted various pioneers like Loren Hastings and Thomas Stimpson, who shaped its development. The surrounding region featured other towns like Steilacoom and Puyallup, rich with pioneering histories and vibrant communities.

Coles, Roger Duane Obituary

Roger Duane Coles, 86, of Vancouver, Washington, and a former resident of Baker and Haines, passed away on January 22, 2003. A celebration of life was held at Felida Baptist Church. Born June 2, 1916, in Haines, he was a World War II veteran and a dedicated photographer, earning an Honorary Master of Science in 2001. He is survived by his wife Glennie, three children, ten grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Coles was known for his faith, family devotion, and the joy he brought through his photography.

Biography of William R. Anderson

William R. Anderson, born in West Virginia in 1822, was a prominent pioneer of Clarke County. After initial education and training in leatherwork, he traveled to Missouri in 1848 and then to the Pacific in 1849, where he worked for a government wagon team. He later helped build Oregon’s first steamer, the Columbia. Moving to Clarke County in 1854, he developed his land and participated in local conflicts, ultimately raising thirteen children on his improved farm. Anderson’s legacy reflects his resilience and contribution to the region’s early settlement.

Biography of James Birnie

James Birnie, born in 1800 in Paisley, Scotland, emigrated to Montreal in 1816. After studying French, he joined the Northwest Fur Company and later the Hudson’s Bay Company, where he held various roles, including Indian trader and bookkeeper. He worked at several posts, including Fort Spokane and Astoria, earning respect for his generosity and helpfulness. In 1845, he settled in Cathlamet, cultivating the land and raising a family of thirteen children. Birnie passed away in 1864, leaving a lasting legacy in Oregon.

Biography of Hon. Dean Blanchard

Hon. Dean Blanchard, born in Madison County, Maine, on December 20, 1832, played a significant role in the development of Columbia County, Oregon. After moving to California in 1853 and Oregon in 1854, he served in military campaigns against Native Americans and held various positions, including auditor and county clerk. Blanchard became county judge in 1874, serving two terms. A successful businessman, he operated a large lumber mill and engaged in general merchandise and wharf construction, earning respect for his industriousness and integrity within the community.

Biography of William H. Dillon

William H. Dillon, born on July 4, 1818, in Delaware, was a quintessential frontiersman who settled in four states. His family moved west in 1823, eventually settling in Indiana and Iowa. After his father’s death in 1840, Dillon sought a better life on the Pacific coast, facing numerous hardships during the journey. He found success in mining and later in farming and ferrying in Washington. Following the loss of his first wife, he remarried and continued to enjoy the fruits of his labor, embodying the pioneer spirit throughout his life.

Biography of Rev. John F. Devore, D. D.

Rev. John F. Devore, D.D., born in Kentucky on December 7, 1817, dedicated his life to ministry after being inspired by his religious upbringing and the writings of Bramwell. He joined the Rock River Conference in 1842 and later served extensively in the Oregon and Puget Sound conferences, contributing significantly to the establishment of churches, schools, and community services across Washington. Devore’s devotion, energy, and leadership left a lasting impact on the communities he served until his passing on July 28, 1889.

Biography of Catherine S. Davis

Catherine S. Davis, born January 23, 1811, in New York, exemplifies the resilience of pioneering women. After moving to Ohio and marrying Benjamin Davis, the family journeyed to Oregon in 1847, facing significant dangers from both nature and Native American tribes. Despite hardships, including meager resources and a growing family, she became a skilled midwife and nurturer in the Willamette Valley, known for her hospitality. Following her husband’s death in 1858, she raised their children and continued to support her community until her later years.

Tigli, Marjorie Irene Foster Mrs. – Obituary

Marjorie Irene Foster Tigli, 73, passed away on November 18, 2002, at her daughter’s home in Fairview. Born on July 3, 1929, in Halfway, she lived there until moving to Vancouver, Wash., and later returned to marry Bill Sullivan and then Mario D. Tigli. Marjorie was a devoted homemaker, mother, and grandmother, with hobbies that included painting and gardening. She is survived by her husband, seven children, 16 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. A graveside service is scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday at Pine Haven Cemetery.

Biography of George Wood Ebbert

George Wood Ebbert, born in 1810 in Kentucky, spent most of his life in the Willamette Valley, Oregon. A pioneer and blacksmith, he engaged in adventures such as trapping in the Rocky Mountains and participating in a fierce battle against Blackfeet Indians. He settled in Oregon in 1839, raising livestock and wheat. In 1848, during the Cayuse War, he helped convey news to Washington, D.C. Now in his eighties, he remains active in his community, with his children managing his land.

Biography of Mrs. Mary J. Hayden

Mary J. Hayden, born in 1830 in Athens, Maine, exemplified the resilience of Pacific Northwest pioneers. After marrying Gay Hayden in 1847, the couple embarked on a challenging journey to Oregon Territory in 1850, facing adversities such as harsh weather, hostile encounters with Native Americans, and logistical struggles. Settling in what is now Washington, the Haydens navigated the difficulties of frontier life, including the Yakima war. A committed advocate for women’s suffrage, Mrs. Hayden also contributed to societal causes, establishing her legacy as a significant pioneer.

Biography of M. R. Hathaway

M.R. Hathaway, born in 1823 in New York, was a prominent figure on the Washington coast and served as adjutant-general. He began his career as a teacher in Michigan before moving to Oregon in 1852. Hathaway held various positions, including superintendent of schools in Clarke County, where he significantly increased educational facilities. He also served in the Indian War and as quartermaster and commissary-general. Throughout his life, he remained active in public service and business, even after suffering a stroke in 1887, reflecting on a life dedicated to community and education.