Michigan

Biography of J. T. Shipman

J. T. Shipman, a prominent attorney in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, has practiced law for over fifteen years, initially partnering with W. T. Sidell. Born on February 1, 1874, in Arkansas, he graduated from Ouachita College and the University of Michigan’s law school in 1906. Shipman has focused on civil law, serving notable clients, including banks and companies. He was County Judge from 1911 to 1915 and remains actively involved in the community. He is married to Samuella McCorkle and holds affiliations with Masonic and Elks organizations.

Biography of August Ferdinand Krumrei

August Ferdinand Krumrei, born in Germany in 1862, immigrated to the United States in 1882. After gaining experience in masonry and carpentry, he began his contracting career in Ann Arbor, Michigan, before moving to Albany, Oregon. He returned to Michigan and ultimately settled in Muskogee, Oklahoma, in 1906, where he established the A. F. Krumrei Construction Company in 1913. Renowned for his skill, Krumrei constructed numerous significant buildings and schools across the state, earning a prominent reputation as a valued contractor and citizen.

Lee, Leon – Obituary

Leon Lee, born on July 20, 1958, in Middleton, Michigan, passed away on April 27, 2007, in Spokane, Washington, at the age of 48. He was cherished by his family and friends for his generous spirit. Leon is survived by his wife, Laura; son, Cody; parents, Edward and Carol Geck; and siblings, Brian, Tami, and Tari, along with several nieces and nephews. A memorial service was conducted on May 5, 2007, at the First Baptist Church in Enterprise.

Biography of David Hester Cotten

David Hester Cotten, born on January 28, 1894, in Indian Territory, is a prominent attorney in Miami, Oklahoma, since 1918. He is the third generation of his family in Oklahoma, with roots tracing back to the Chickasaw Nation. Cotten graduated from the University of Oklahoma with an LL.B. after excelling in sports. He served as County Attorney for Ottawa County and is actively involved in local civic and professional organizations. Married to Emma Henning, they have one daughter, Ardis Maurine, and his contributions continue to shape his community.

Biography of Fred Wallace

Fred Wallace, born on August 26, 1873, in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, became a significant figure in Nowata, Oklahoma, after moving there with his family in 1890. Initially a farmer and stockman, he transitioned to the grocery business before retiring in 1921. Wallace still owns multiple farms and has invested in land in Missouri. He married Ada Shawnee in 1899, and they had four children. An active community member, he supports the Republican Party and various fraternal organizations, leaving a lasting impact in northeastern Oklahoma.

Bean, Rufus Eusebeous – Obituary

Rufus E. Bean, a prominent civic and political figure in Umatilla County, passed away on April 5, 1947, from cerebral thrombosis. Born on January 1, 1876, in Missouri, he spent most of his life in Milton after a successful career as a telegraph operator and ranch owner. Bean served 12 years as a Umatilla County Commissioner, was mayor of Freewater, and held various roles in local businesses. He is survived by his wife, three children, eight grandchildren, and siblings. His funeral will be held at Freewater Federated Church.

Galbreath, Mary Matilda Paxson

Mary Matilda Paxson Galbreath, born April 1, 1852, in Ohio, relocated to Michigan with her family in 1871. She taught in rural schools for seven years and married William Franklin Galbreath in 1875, with whom she had four children. A member of the Eastern Star and Ladies of the Maccabees, she dedicated herself to helping others in times of need. She passed away on December 11, 1931, at 82, leaving three children, seven grandchildren, and a wide circle of friends. Funeral services were held on December 13.

Blakeslee, Caroline D. – Obituary

Caroline D. Blakeslee, aged 90, passed away in La Grande. Born on September 6, 1827, in Lewiston, New York, she married Chas. L. Blakeslee in 1850 and moved to Union, Oregon, in 1865. A dedicated member of the Episcopal church, she contributed to its establishment in Union. Her husband died in 1905, and she is survived by a son and two daughters. Funeral services were held at the church on January 30, 1918.

Blakeslee, Charles Lewis – Obituary

Charles Lewis Blakeslee, born in 1827 in Berlin, New York, moved to Michigan at age thirteen and married Caroline Dewey in 1850. He relocated to Union County, Oregon, in 1863, where he contributed to education as one of the area’s first school teachers. A devoted Mason for over 52 years, he played a significant role in the Grande Ronde Lodge No. 56. Blakeslee lived a life of virtue and faith, passing away peacefully, leaving behind five children and a grieving wife after more than fifty years together.

Conklin, Fannie – Obituary

Fannie Edith Conklin, an 87-year-old resident of Cove, Union County, Oregon, passed away at her home after a prolonged illness. Born on May 11, 1863, in Brighton, Michigan, she had lived in Union County for 60 years. Her funeral service will be held on Monday at the Cove Episcopal Church, followed by burial beside her late husband in the Cove cemetery. She is survived by three sons, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Biography of J. C. Manning

J. C. Manning, a native of Indiana born on April 7, 1881, has been Nowata’s city manager since 1920. A Purdue University graduate, he began his career in railroad engineering before taking roles in city planning and management across several states. Under his leadership, Nowata implemented a successful paving program, improved municipal services, and achieved financial stability. A member of the Presbyterian Church and a dedicated contributor to community projects, Manning is also active in professional organizations and fraternal societies. He is married with one son.

Reynolds, Lillian Mrs. – Obituary

Mrs. Lillian Reynolds, a longtime La Grande resident and music teacher, passed away at her home due to an extended illness. Born in Michigan and a member of the First Presbyterian Church, she lived in La Grande for 47 years. She is survived by her husband, Lee, their daughter, Dorothy Lee Bloomer, two brothers, and seven grandchildren. Funeral services are scheduled for Monday at Daniels Funeral Home, with interment at Hillcrest Cemetery.

Steel, R. M. – Obituary

Robert M. Steel passed away at his home in St. Johns, Michigan, on Tuesday morning. While his death was anticipated due to his recent health struggles, it shocked many friends in Eastern Oregon, where he was a well-known businessman involved in various enterprises for 15 years. He contributed to the construction of the O.R. & N. railroad and engaged in lumber and mercantile industries. Survived by his wife, two sons, and a daughter, his eldest son, George, serves as Michigan’s state treasurer.

Wickham, Willis James – Obituary

Willis James Wickham, 73, passed away in La Grande after a prolonged illness. Born on July 25, 1878, in Michigan, he moved to the Grand Ronde Valley at age 12. Wickham operated butcher shops in Elgin, Boise, and Star, Idaho, and was involved in logging activities in Union County. He was a member of the Eagles Lodge and the Christian Church. He is survived by two sons, a daughter, a brother, and three grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are pending.

Knight, Elizabeth “Libby” F. – Obituary

Elizabeth “Libby” F. Knight, 87, of La Grande, passed away on July 12. A memorial service is scheduled for 11 a.m. Tuesday at Daniels Chapel of the Valley, with a private inurnment at Grandview Mausoleum. Born on January 4, 1919, in Detroit, Michigan, she married Dean Knight in 1942 and lived in La Grande for 58 years. Libby was active in various organizations and enjoyed reading. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Hospital.

Selman, T. William – Obituary

T. William “Bill” Selman, 66, passed away on October 30 while visiting family in Portland. Born on June 28, 1941, in Detroit, he valued family above all and was guided by his deep faith. Bill had a diverse life as a scholar, artist, teacher, and devoted family man, continuously seeking to serve others. He is survived by his wife, Susan, their 13 children, 14 grandchildren, and a brother. A celebration of his life will be held at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church.

Kolasinski, Gary – Obituary

Gary Kolasinski, 53, passed away on August 24 in Baker City, previously residing in La Grande and Enterprise. Born on October 12, 1953, in Alpena, Michigan, he lived in various states including Wyoming and Oregon. He is remembered for his love of hunting, fishing, biking, and spending time with family. Gary is survived by his parents, twin brother, and daughter, Laura. A funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church in La Grande, followed by a reception.

Planting, Eva Maria Toulanen – Obituary

Mrs. Eva Maria Planting passed away on June 2, 1929, at the age of 78 after a prolonged illness. Born in Sweden, she immigrated to Calumet, Michigan in 1873 and later settled in Umatilla County, Oregon. A devoted member of the Apostolic Lutheran Church, she was the mother of 12 children, with 11 surviving, and had numerous grandchildren and relatives. Her husband, Gustaf W. Planting, predeceased her in 1911. Funeral services are scheduled for Wednesday at the Finnish Lutheran Church in Pendleton.

Molstrom, Joanna Margaret Tengman – Obituary

Mrs. Margaret Molstrom, aged 82, passed away on March 12, 1931, at her daughter’s home. Born in Haaparanta, Sweden on November 30, 1848, she moved to Norway at 17 and married Henry Molstrom in 1873. They settled in Calumet, Michigan, before relocating to Centerville, Washington, and eventually to the local area. She is survived by four sons, three daughters, and numerous grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at the Apostolic Lutheran Church, with interment at Olney Cemetery.