In Memoriam
A monthly supplement to The Daily World
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The Daily World
Saturday, December 21, 2019
On the cover A man and a woman walk in the snow across a row of graves during a Veterans Day ceremony at The Great Lakes Cemetery on Monday, Nov. 11, 2019, in Holly, Michigan.
Table of Contents Page 3
Page 10
Charles Samuel “Chuck” aka “Sonny” Burkey Art Robert Mahlum Bobby Joe Murray Sr.
Viola Ada Nolan Dina Mae Trapp Lily “Sammie” Dameron Billie Bernita Salick
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David E. Johnson Sharon Lea Thompson Richelle Kay Jackson
Leah Mary Wilmarth Morasch Phil B. Perkins LaDonna J. Eilers
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To place a loved one’s Memoriam or Obituary please call 360-532-4000
Julie Ann Riley Schulz Harold Dean Raines Lisa Marie Kinnaman Robert J “Bob” Barack
Page 12 Jack Bastin Ellen Hazel (Sackrider) Chadwick Harry J. Jenna
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Page 13
Linda Sparks Helena Marie Matthynssens John S. Moseley
River Hylinne Barclay Ervin W. Arndt Ronald James Davis Janice Elizabeth Schimelpfenig
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All contents ©2019 The Daily World
Linda K. Peterson Patricia Anne Schmidt Carma Jean Swaney Michael Louis LeTourneau Charles Sidney “Sid” Perry
Page 8 Douglas Edward Elway James Miner Elway Dennis Graham Kathryn Louise Hackney Jack LeRoy Blume
Page 9 Linda Jean Mills Jonathan Marsalle Jack Patricia “Patti” LaVenture
Page 14 Arline I. “Sue” Graham Kenneth Stanley Strozyk
Notable Deaths in November Page 14 Yasuhiro Nakasone — former Japanese prime minister
Page 15 William Ruckelshaus — former EPA chief
Page 16 Caroll Spinney — Puppeteer behind Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch
The Daily World
Charles Samuel “Chuck” aka “Sonny” Burkey Chuck was born to Alfred E. Burkey and Barbara R. (Nee Nelson) Burkey at Downingtown (Dorlan’s Mills) Chester County, Pennsylvania. He attended Downingtown-area schools and was a graduate of Mt. Hood Community College, Gresham, Oregon. He was elected Justice of the Peace – West Whiteland Township, Exton, Pennsylvania, and served as a police officer on the West Chester Borough Police Department and West Goshen Township Police Department. He also served as chief of police in Fairview, Oregon. Chuck was a Korean War veteran and served his country in the USAF as an armaments technician. He received an honorable discharge in 1954. Chuck was awarded the UN Service Medal, National Defense Medal, Korean Service Medal (US), and the Korean War Service Medal (Republic of South Korea). He was a longtime member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Fraternal Order of Police. He worked for 27 years as an inspector for EBI – Liberty Mutual and Valley Insurance companies doing loss prevention in the insurance field. Chuck played the accordion and organ and was an accomplished ballroom dancer who especially loved the polka. Chuck loved the outdoors, hiking, fishing, clam digging and metal detecting. Chuck is survived by his son, Alfred E. Burkey II, four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and 16 great-great-grandchildren, his sister, Barbara Combs and many nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his parents Alfred and Barbara Burkey, sister Sarah Reed, and twin brothers that died at birth. Chuck was a conservationist who loved wildlife, especially birds. He was a member of the Audubon Society of Washington, The Nature Conservancy, the Sierra Club, Defenders of Wildlife, the World Wildlife Fund, National Wildlife Federation and Natural Resources Defense Council. The family would like to ask that in place of flowers that a donation be made in his name to one of his favorite conservation organizations. Cremains will be interred at the Forest Hills Cemetery in Cosmopolis, Washington.
Art Robert Mahlum April 14, 1946 - October 27, 2019 To our dear departed father, Arthur Robert Mahlum, who passed away on Oct. 27, 2019. Due to your enormous sacrifice, you gave your family a comfortable life from humble beginnings in Everett, Washington. A 40-plus-year employee of Weyerhaeuser, you started on the mill floor working nights while taking engineering classes at the University of Washington during the day. Often having to sleep in your truck to balance the schedule between work and school, you always put in what it took to get the job done. After graduation, you progressed in the company from an engineer in Springfield, Oregon, to superintendent in Hot Springs, Arkansas, to plant manager in Aberdeen, Washington, and finally operations manager in Longview, Washington, before taking your retirement. It was your unrelenting work ethic that propelled our success in life. Through your trips around the world, you opened up our eyes and introduced us to cultures we could not imagine. You passed down a thirst to explore and connect with that we did not know. An avid outdoorsman, you could never find a buck too big to bring down or a boat too large to captain. Never above your roots, you were always willing to give a helping hand to a stranger and your dedication to community as a Rotarian exemplified this. You have earned your eternal rest. Now it is our turn to try and be worthy of your sacrifices by following your example. To be good people, to care for family, to work hard, to always find time for an adventure, and to open our hearts and homes to those that need us the most. We love you Dad and we will miss you terribly until we meet again. In loving memory, Your sons, Zac, Chris and Travis Art is survived by his three sons: Travis, 44, Chris, 37, Zac, 32; their mother Joyce Mahlum Towle; and five grandchildren, as well as his brother Charles and his children Scott and Stacey. Memorials can be made to the Cowlitz County Humane Society in his name, which will aide in the care for his past and future friends that he adopted along the way.
Saturday, December 21, 2019
Bobby Joe Murray Sr. Bobby Joe Murray Sr. peacefully passed away at his Cosmopolis home on Sunday, Nov. 3, 2019. He was 83. Bobby was born on Oct. 13, 1936, in Laurens, Iowa, to Joseph and Frances (Sprong) Murray. In 1953, Bobby enlisted in the United States Navy. Bobby served on the USS Colonial and earned a China Service Medal during the Korean Conflict. During his time in the Navy, Bobby met Margaret Lucille (Chaney) Murray. They married on March 16, 1956, in Everett, Washington, and moved to the Grays Harbor area in 1957 where they started their family and legacy. Bobby was employed by Harbor Plywood for one year before he signed on with Weyerhaeuser pulp mill in Cosmopolis. After 37 years he retired as maintenance foreman. In retirement he continued his loves of hunting, fishing, camping, woodworking. He also loved the extra time he had to spend with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Bobby was a member of the Elks Lodge, Fraternal Order of the Eagles, Grays Harbor Camp Club, an active member of the AWPPW Local 211 and his local VFW, serving as commander for many years. Bobby is survived by his sons Bobby Joe (Tanya) Murray Jr. of Montesano, Richard (Sarah) Murray of Aberdeen and Lawrence Murray of Aberdeen; daughters Cynthia (Fred) Pellegrini of Hoquiam and Barbara (Dennis) Dyer of Aberdeen; sisters Lou Ann Peterson of Laurens, Iowa, and Lois Helen Hall of Hoquiam; 17 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He was preceeded in death by his loving wife Margaret Lucille Murray and sister Mary Jane Kuprewicz. Bobby was inurned at Forest Hill Cemetery in Cosmopolis. Memorials in Bobby’s name may be made to the Aberdeen VFW or Cosmopolis Fire Department, 19 F St., Cosmopolis, WA 98537. There was an informal celebration of life at the Aberdeen VFW on Nov. 24. All who knew Bobby were invited to bring a dish and help celebrate and remember a great man.” Thank you. To share memories or express condolences please visit www.harrisonfamilymortuary.com. Harrison Family Mortuary of Aberdeen is honored to assist the family.
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Saturday, December 21, 2019
The Daily World
David E. Johnson Gone Fishing After a courageous and fierce battle against cancer, David E. Johnson, age 70, departed this world in the comfort of his home surrounded by loved ones to go fishing with the Master of the sea. David was born on July 10, 1949, in Aberdeen, Washington, to Eunice “Jeane” Johnson (Coomes) and David “Ray” Johnson. He grew up in Pacific Beach, Washington, and graduated from Moclips High School in 1967. Upon graduation, David was employed by the ALOHA Mill. During his life, David held many jobs in the commercial fishing and timber industries, from which he officially retired in 2018. David married his loving wife, Deborah (Gibbons), on March 29, 2008, who continues to reside in the family home in Hoquiam. David was a member of the Poggie Club, Hoquiam Elks Lodge and the Grays Harbor Pistol and Rifle Club. David was an avid fisher and hunter. He enjoyed numerous hunting and fishing trips with his brother, Daniel Johnson, and close friend Dawn Dougherty, both of whom accompanied David on his recent “bucket list” trip to Costa Rica. In addition to his wife, Deborah, David is survived by his daughter, Brandi Yergeau of North Tacoma; step-daughter, Nicole Shultzaberger, of Westport; his brother, Daniel Johnson, of Seattle; numerous nieces and a nephew, three grandchildren and many friends with whom he shared a number of adventures. David was preceded in death by his father, Ray, his mother, Jeane, and his brother, Christopher Barclay. David will be remembered for his strength, warmth, quick wit and sense of humor and he will be missed by many. At David’s request, there was no formal memorial service. Cards of condolences with a message or memory of David may be sent to the family at www.fernhillfuneral.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home, Aberdeen.
Sharon Lea Thompson Sharon Lea Thompson, 82, a longtime resident of Hoquiam, Washington, passed away in the early morning on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2019, after a six-month battle with pancreatic cancer. Sharon was the eldest sister of 10 children born to Agnes Nelson. In August of this year, she celebrated her 64th wedding anniversary with her loving husband Glen, her four children Julie, Bruce, Jeff and Danette and her five grandchildren, Sarah, Steven, Spencer, Bailee and Lily. Sharon was a devoted wife and mother. She had so much love to give that she invited foster children into her home for many years. Sharon may be most well-known in Grays Harbor as the counseling secretary at Hoquiam High School, where she enjoyed working with high school students for 20 years. Sharon became a member of PEO and enjoyed the sisterhood and friendship that developed over the years. She was also an active member of the Saron Lutheran Church and enjoyed working on many community projects with her friends in the congregation. Sharon was an avid writer of letters and cards and was always sending handwritten notes of support and love to family and friends. She also had four special pen pals that she cultivated by placing an ad in the British Victoria magazine and she corresponded with them for over 20 years. Sharon knew about the secret to happiness from an early age. It did not come from objects or money. Happiness came from the simple things. One of her favorite quotes: “Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home and a stranger into a friend.” Some of the simple things she enjoyed was seeing the
swallows return each spring to nest, to frolic and dive, and to raise babies so full of joy. She enjoyed “Sunset Sundaes” at the beach where she and her husband watched the sun set over the ocean. She enjoyed her garden house, “The Swallows Nest,” where she would relax, drink tea and enjoy her flowers after a session of weeding. She enjoyed cranberry harvest with the chill in the air and the smell of cranberries, freshly cut vines and burlap. Sharon also enjoyed sailing in the San Juan Islands and get-aways with her husband to Cannon Beach where she enjoyed window shopping and going to her favorite fish and chip shop and bookstore. Sharon once noted, “I can’t imagine living anywhere else — except on an island. The fresh clean air, the sound of the ocean before a winter storm, rainy days to savor a good book – sunny days to garden with swallows darting overhead, migrating geese, eagles, humming birds, cranberry harvest — special friends.” Besides her husband, children, grandchildren and friends, her greatest happiness came from being on the cranberry farm that she shared with her husband for 55 years. She passed away as she wished, on her cranberry farm with her devoted husband Glen and son Jeff by her side. Sharon lived her life with love, grace and gratitude. We are grateful for our time with her and for the love and kindness she gave us. It is amazing that a person of such small stature could have such an enormous impact on the lives of those she met. She will be missed beyond words. A memorial service for Sharon will took place at the Saron Lutheran/First Presbyterian Church on Wednesday, Nov. 20. In lieu of flowers, please bring a lavender plant that could be placed in her garden as a lasting tribute.
Richelle Kay Jackson Richelle Kay Jackson, 58, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 17, 2019, in Olympia, Washington, surrounded by her family. Richelle’s fight with cancer was courageous and filled with her faith in the Lord. A graveside service was held at the Ilwaco Cemetary in Ilwaco, Washington, on Saturday Nov. 23, 2019. A celebration of life was held to honor her at the Grace Community Church, 609 Quincy St., South Bend, Washington, with a potluck following. Richelle is survived by her husband Michael Jackson at the family home in Raymond, her father Harold Mullins of Raymond, her sister Renee (Michael) Goodin of South Bend, Washington, brother Ronald (Linda) Mullins of Elma, Washington, and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. Her mother Joan Mullins preceded her in death. Richelle was born Jan. 8, 1961 and was a lifetime resident of Raymond, Washington. She attended the Raymond
schools, where she graduated. After graduation, Richelle went to work at the old Dairy Queen in downtown Raymond, where she met her husband of 31 years. Richelle went on to work for the Willapa Harbor Counseling Center working with Adult Services. The last several years Richelle has worked from home in their family-owned business. Richelle loved to travel which included trips to Hawaii, cruises to Alaska, the Caribbean and many trips to California to visit relatives. Richelle’s hobby was her honey bees. She also loved her nieces and nephews dearly and especially her cats Lillian, Gillian, Mark Anthony and Elizabeth Josephine. Memorials may be made to HAVA House, P. O. Box 243, Raymond, WA. 98577 or the Grace Community Church, P. O. Box 42, South Bend, WA. 98586. Arrangements are in care of Stoller’s Mortuary in Raymond, Washington. You may visit www.StollersMortuary.com to leave condolences for the family.
The Daily World
Saturday, December 21, 2019
Julie Ann Riley Schulz
Harold Dean Raines
Lisa Marie Kinnaman
Julie Ann Riley Schulz, 59, of Everett, Washington, passed away peacefully at home on Oct. 18, 2019, surrounded by family. Julie was born in Fortuna, California, to Donald and Lois Holland on Nov. 16, 1959. She moved to Grays Harbor County, Washington, with her family at the age of 1. She enjoyed many activities as a child, including fishing with her father and time on the beach. She attended Hoquiam High School and toured Germany with her German language class. She graduated in 1978 and moved to Olympia, Washington, where she worked in real estate, attended community college and was active in Toastmasters. She married Shawn Riley in 1982 and they had two sons that were her joy. In 1985 the family moved to Everett, Washington, and soon purchased a home, where Julie lived for the remainder of her life. Julie was a genuinely caring person, loved entertaining family for holidays and enjoyed true crime literature. After working in a chiropractic office in Everett, Julie returned to college while employed in property management and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Law and Justice. She then worked 13 years as a Community Corrections Officer for Washington State. Julie was involved in her son’s many activities and liked to travel; memorable trips included Disneyland and a Caribbean Cruise. Julie then worked as a manager for 10 years with a property development and management company in Snohomish, Washington. During this time, she met Paul Schulz and they married in 2014. While continuing to work, they vacationed in Hawaii and California and took a spectacular cruise around Italy. Julie retired in May 2018, after which they enjoyed a trip along the Oregon coast and a vacation to Cabo San Lucas. Julie was known as an excellent cook and had a memorable laugh. She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Lois Holland of Hoquiam. She is survived by her husband, Paul; sons Robert Riley of Seattle and Travis (Rachelle) Riley of Lacey; two granddaughters, Faith and Jessica; sisters Donna Erickson of Hoquiam and Patty (Rick) Dunlap of Cosmopolis; plus aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
On Thursday, Oct. 17, 2019, Harold Dean Raines, loving husband, father of two children and grandfather to three grandsons, passed away at the age of 70. Harold was born on July 19, 1949, in Lincoln, Arkansas, to George Alfred Raines and Frances Elizabeth Raines. Harold and his family moved to Montesano, Washington, in the early 1950s and he graduated from Montesano High School in 1967. Although Harold began his career in the timber industry as a log scaler, he went on to become a timber buyer, marketer, consultant and eventually business owner. Harold loved to golf and he had plenty of friends that enjoyed playing with him, even if he was a “tad” late for a tee time. Harold especially enjoyed playing golf at the Dale Crites Memorial with his three grandsons and friends, regardless of the weather. Some winters he traveled to Arizona to play golf with his son and afterward he’d bask in the sun, next to the pool, with his granddog, Lexy. Family meant everything to Harold and he loved celebrating Christmas, which allowed him to spread holiday joy while wearing a Santa hat. From family gatherings to the rides at Disneyland and the countless “happy cakes,” Harold was truly a “fun hog.” His energy, charisma and enthusiasm were infectious and people simply wanted to be around him. In addition to his exuberance, Harold was also extremely generous. That wasn’t just confined to his family. He gave to others in his business as well. With his ever-present smile, he treated everyone with kindness, took on challenges most people would run from and he utilized every second of every day. Harold is survived by two women who loved him, his wife, Donna Jean, and Valerie, mother of his children, daughter, Gina Raines Watkin and son, Jase (Holly) Raines and three grandsons, Zac, Kolton, and Dawson, as well as his sister-in-law Vickie Winters. He’s also survived by five brothers: Jerry, Roy, Carl, Ken and David. Harold was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Fleeta Joyce Raines (1964) and brother, George Alfred (GA) Raines III (1970). Harold’s celebration of life was held on Nov. 23 at Indian Summer Golf Course, 5900 Troon Ln SE, Olympia, WA 98501
Lisa Marie Kinnaman, 38, Westport resident, passed away on Nov. 2, 2019, at her home in Westport, Washington. Lisa was born on July 1, 1981, in Aberdeen, Washington, to Robin and Shelly Jean (Richardson) Shurtz. She grew up in Westport and attended Ocosta schools. She was attending Grays Harbor College working on her medical records degree. She worked at Brady’s Oysters and also had worked at The Hungry Whale Restaurant. She enjoyed fishing, going to the beach, car rides and hunting. She is survived by a son Andrew Robert Russell Kinnaman of Aberdeen and two daughters, Kyla Rose Kinnaman of Aberdeen and Isabella Marie Pena of Brady; a granddaughter, Paige Grace Lynn Bagley; her parents, Robin and Shelly Shurtz of Lewiston, Michigan. There was a memorial service for Lisa on Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, at the Westport VFW Hall. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, Washington.
Robert J. “Bob” Barack Robert J. “Bob” Barack, 73, of Ocean Shores passed away Sept. 14, 2019. He was born March 22, 1946, in Bronx, New York. In January of 1967 he married Polly (Schmidt) Barack in Bellevue, Washington. Robert was a retired San Diego Police detective. After retiring he became a docent for the Coastal Interpretive Center in Ocean Shores. He was an avid collector of glass fishing floats. He also enjoyed metal detecting. He was on a hunt when he passed away. “We’re thankful that he was doing something he loved when he passed away.” Robert is survived by his wife, Polly, son, Christopher (Cathy) Barack, daughter Heidi Barack and his grandchildren, Emily Barack and Caitlin Barack. A memorial service was held Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019 from 1 – 5 p.m. at the Ocean Shores VFW Hall with Alan Rammer officiating.
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Saturday, December 21, 2019
The Daily World
Linda Sparks Linda Sparks, a longtime resident of Grays Harbor, died Nov. 10, 2019, at Grays Harbor Community Hospital after a decade-long battle with cancer. She was born Jan. 6, 1940, in Miesenbach, Pfaltz, Germany, into a large family of six siblings. Her parents were Friedrich and Karolina Schmidt. Multiple generations of the family have been in the same village going back for several hundreds of years. On Jan. 17, 1957, she married Ronnie J. Sparks, who at the time was an active duty Airman 1st Class with the U.S. Air Force. They remained married for the entirety of her life, for over 62 years. She proudly became an American citizen in January 1960 in Denver, Colorado. As a military wife, she has lived in many places, but loved the Pacific Northwest and spent the majority of her life in Oregon and Washington. Upon her husband Ronnie’s retirement from the military as a chief warrant officer, they settled in the Eugene, Oregon, area for eight years, prior to moving to the Harbor in the late 1970s. Never one to be idle, she was always involved in business at all points of her life, often dictated by military duty stations. In the early 1960s, she bought and successfully ran a cafe in Eugene, Oregon, for several years known famously for her homemade soups. Oftentimes people came from as far as 50 miles away and would wait in line for over an hour just for a seat. She also had jobs as diverse as a secret shopper for the Woolworth Co. and working for Nordstrom’s. She later found her calling in the women’s fashion industry, operating a highly successful boutique in Eugene, Oregon, as part of a three-store chain and eventually became the store buyer, which allowed her to travel to New York City,
Chicago and Los Angeles to become completely immersed in the fashion industry. Having such success, in 1978, she and her husband Ronnie, decided to move to Aberdeen and together bought Brower’s women’s clothing store. Continuing with that success, they opened and operated branches of Brower’s in Olympia, Washington, and Bend, Oregon. Together Linda and Ron were stalwart members of the Aberdeen business community for 20 years, serving on boards and committees to serve the Harbor until her retirement in 1998. Upon announcement of her retirement, the extensive circle of clientele she had been serving for decades planned a party for her in hopes of coaxing her to continue. Linda always loved the Northwest and was an avid salmon fishing, clamming and crabbing enthusiast. However, as busy as she always was, her first and foremost priority was caring, cooking and providing for family and friends, always putting their needs and wants before her own. She is survived by husband Ronnie, son Gene, granddaughter Roxanne, sisters Ingrid, Gertrude and Elfriede, and extended family Riche Sparks, Venus Williamson, Delfin Espiritu Jr. and Emelia Williamson. A celebration of life was held on Friday, Nov. 29, at Our Lady of Good Help Catholic Church multi-purpose room. The family invites anyone who knew her to attend. Cremation arrangements are by the Coleman Mortuary in Hoquiam. Please take a few moments to record your thoughts for the family by signing the online register at www.colemanmortuary.net.
John S. Moseley On Sunday, Oct. 13, 2019, John S. Moseley, beloved husband and father, passed away at the age of 71. John was born March 30, 1948, in Aberdeen, Washington, to John T. Moseley and Byrdice (Wester) Moseley. He graduated from Raymond High School in 1966, having excelled in football and track. After graduation he became a logger, which came to an abrupt end when he suffered a head injury in the mid 1970s. He went on to develop hobbies and become an avid bowler. He enjoyed fishing with his dad, golfing with relatives and keeping busy taking two daughters to T-ball,
softball, soccer, dancing and bowling. He also thoroughly enjoyed watching the Hawks, Huskies and Gonzaga. In 1991 he married Valerie Stanley, who survives him. He is also survived by sons Jason and Justin (Jaime and family), daughters Shayne and Maria, granddaughter, Audrina; sister, Carol (Larry) French, along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Susan Johnson, Cathy Barnum and Mike Moseley. A celebration of life was held at New Life Fellowship, 404 Commercial St., Raymond on Nov. 9, 2019.
Helena Marie Matthynssens Helena Marie Matthynssens, 47, a Central Park resident, died at her home Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2019. She was born in Aberdeen, June 23, 1972, the daughter of John and Peggy (Zimmerman) Hunley. She graduated from Hoquiam High School in 1990 and had attended Grays Harbor College. She moved to Florida in January, 1997, but returned to the Harbor to marry Ron Matthynssens, March 5, 1997. She returned to Florida and Ron followed that fall following completion of a job obligation he had here. In 2006, they came back to the Harbor to a home in Central Park. Earlier, Helena had worked for Humdinger in Hoquiam and Lake Quinault Lodge. While in Florida she joined the WalMart staff there and upon return to Grays Harbor she continued at WalMart here serving for a total of 22 years. Helena had attended Immanuel Baptist Church and was also a member of the Pieceful Discoverers Quilt Guild. She enjoyed other crafts as well, especially bead work. She would visit homebound members of the family and always created homemade presents for Christmas. She is survived by her husband Ron of the family home in Central Park; three sons: Ian, Charlie and Noah, all of Central Park; a brother: Nathan (Mami) Hunley, Fukuoka, Japan; three step-brothers: Ralph Bishop, Estanica, New Mexico, Chuck (Alisa) Bishop, Elma and Dan (Jackie) Bishop, Oak Island, North Carolina; her mother and step-father, Peggy and Charles Bishop, Limestone, Tennessee and her father, John Hunley, Hoquiam. She was preceded in death by a step-brother, Robert Bishop. A celebration of her life was held Saturday, Nov. 23, in Immanuel Baptist Church, 1200 Soule St., Hoquiam. The Rev. Kent Gravley officiated. The church provided a meal in the Fellowship Hall following the service. A card of condolence with a message or a condolence may be sent to the family at www.fernhillfuneral.com Arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home, Aberdeen.
The Daily World
Saturday, December 21, 2019
Linda K. Peterson
Patricia Anne Schmidt
Carma Jean Swaney
Linda K. Peterson passed away on Nov. 10, 2019, in San Francisco, California. Linda was born Aug. 9, 1959, in Aberdeen, Washington, to Don and Alvina Lacefield. She graduated from Hoquiam High School in 1977. Two of Linda’s passions in life were all the time she spent with her grandchildren, and the time she spent as a missionary in Mexico. She worked with New Beginnings Canada. She loved working with the children and meeting all their parents. She made many lifelong friends on this journey. Linda is survived at her home by her husband, Mike Peterson. She is also survived by her three sons, Jason Henry, Patrick Henry and Bryan Henry; her two step-daughters, Kendall Peterson and Jayme Peterson; her mother, Alvina Brooks of McCleary; her brother Gary (Rose) of Montesano; her sister Debbie Knorpp from San Carlos, California; and her brother Mark of Hoquiam. Linda is also survived by her many grandchildren whom she loved so much, nieces and nephews and friends who will all miss her dearly. Linda was preceded in death by her father, Don, and her brother Steve Lacefield. Her remembrance of life was held at South Aberdeen Baptist Church, 620 Fordney St., Aberdeen, on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019. A potluck reception followed.
Lifelong Harbor resident Pat Schmidt passed away Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Aberdeen. She was 84. Pat was born Jan. 14, 1935 to Jack A. and Evelyn M. Best in Hoquiam Washington. She graduated from Hoquiam High School in 1953. She first married John W (Jack) Brooks and they later divorced. She was then married to Richard H. Schmidt until his death in 1991. She was a longtime devoted member of Montesano Church of God and served as the secretary until her death. She was also an active volunteer for numerous charities and local organizations. She is survived by children Greg (Bev) Brooks of Federal Way, John Brooks of Elma, Laura (Bob) of Sheridan Wyoming, Donna (Carl) Robbins of Aberdeen, Ellen (James) Roy of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Danielle (Rex) Miles of Council Bluffs Iowa, Nicole (Bryan) Randolph of Omaha, Nebraska, daughter in law Linda Brooks Aberdeen, son-inlaw Darrel Norton Aberdeen, 16 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren, sister Jackie (Lamb) Oliver of Aberdeen, sister MaryKay McCullough of Aberdeen and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by husband Richard, son Michael Brooks, daughter Cheryl Norton and brother Charles L Best. A celebration of life was held at Montesano Church of God on Saturday, Nov. 9.
Carma Jean (Miller) Swaney passed away Thursday, Oct. 24, 2019, at her Ocean Shores home. She was 82. Carma was born on July 26, 1937, to Sydney and Virginia Miller in Hood River, Oregon. She graduated from Hood River High School in 1955 and attended Oregon State University shortly after. There she earned her bachelor of arts degree. On July 4, 1960, Carma married Edward Walter Swaney. They moved to the Grays Harbor area on Jan. 3, 1970, and spent many years enjoying the beach, mountains and all the Pacific Northwest has to offer. Edward preceded her in death in May of 2014. Carma was employed by various Ocean Shores restaurants, hotels and the bowling alley. She was a member of the Ocean Shores St. Jerome Catholic Church, Ocean Shores Elks and enjoyed gardening, raising cockatiels and cooking. Her love for art stayed with her always so when she had time to express her inner artist, she would. Carma is survived by her daughters Maya Swaney of Ocean Shores, Washington and Melissa Dodge Swaney of Ukiah, California; sons Clay Swaney of Gypsum, Colorado and Colin Swaney of Ocean Shores, Washington and 6 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her loving husband Edward and precious son Kurtis. To share memories or express condolences please visit www.harrisonfamilymortuary.com.
Michael Louis LeTourneau Michael Louis LeTourneau, 66, Aberdeen resident and former area logger, died Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, at his home in Aberdeen. Michael was born on May 18, 1953, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Harold Steven and Joyce Marie (Plummer) LeTourneau. His family moved around the U.S. when he was young, eventually landing in Aberdeen, where he graduated from Weatherwax High School in 1972. He went on to school to become a mechanic. He was also in the Army for a stint.
Michael worked as a logger in the Pacific Northwest and enjoyed being outdoors. He loved to fish and ride and work on motorcycles. Michael is survived by his sister, Patricia Willard of Aberdeen, and an aunt, Jean Frethiem of Aberdeen. He was preceded in death by his brother James LeTourneau and a sister Sharon Leslie. There were no services. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, Washington.
Charles Sidney “Sid” Perry Charles Sidney “Sid” Perry, 73, a lifelong resident of Hoquiam, passed on June 19, 2019, in Elma. He was born on Dec. 3, 1945, in Renton. On April 30, 1976, he and Caroline E. Henkel were married in Aberdeen. She survives at the Elma family home. An urn committal with military honors was held on July 15, 2019, at the Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent. A celebration of Sid’s life was held Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, at the Hoquiam V.F.W. Post 1135, 407 – 7th Street. Arrangements are by the Coleman Mortuary in Hoquiam. Please take a few moments to record your thoughts for the family by signing the online register at www.colemanmortuary.net.
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Saturday, December 21, 2019
The Daily World
Douglas Edward Elway Douglas Edward Elway of Hoquiam passed away Thursday, Nov. 7, 2019, at Grays Harbor Community Hospital. He was 74. Douglas was born June 7, 1945, in Aberdeen, Washington, to James and Shirley (Miner) Elway. Douglas ( a.k.a. Dougman) was raised in Aberdeen and graduated from Weatherwax High School in 1963. Following graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he proudly served for 20 years, and then the National Guard for 15 years. His duty stations included Germany, Vietnam and Texas. He married Linda (Joyce) Elway and they later divorced. Douglas married Esther (Keaweehu) Elway in Hawaii and she passed away 2003. Douglas enjoyed cars and dogs/pets. He is survived by his son Jaime Elway; two brothers, Robert (Patti) Elway of Aberdeen and Edward (Darcia) Elway of Gig Harbor; and his sister, Diane (Rob) Arnold of Hoquiam. In addition to his wife Esther, Douglas was preceded in death by sons Doug Elway Jr., Bruce Keaweehu and Paul Keaweehu; parents James and Shirley Elway; and brother James Elway. A celebration of life is being planned for after the new year. To share memories or to leave condolences please visit www.harrisonfamilymortuary.com.
James Miner Elway Jan. 29, 1943 – Oct. 30, 2019 James Miner Elway, passed away Oct. 30, 2019, in Tacoma, Washington, at the age of 76. James was born in Aberdeen, Washington, on Jan. 29, 1943, to James Edward and Shirley Jean (Miner) Elway. He graduated from Weatherwax High School, Class of 1961, and later earned his associate’s degree from Grays Harbor Community College. James worked at Pay-N-Save for 24 years, getting promoted to store manager; and for the Washington State Lottery as a sales account executive for 14 years. James was involved in his community, as he served on the Aberdeen City Council with his father, James Elway Sr., and was a member of the Elks. He had a love for all sports (especially the New York Yankees!) and enjoyed spending time outdoors. James leaves behind his children, Laura Osmono vich, Kim Wagner and Jeff Elway; his brothers, Douglas Elway (deceased),Robert (Patti) Elway and Edward (Darcia) Elway; his sister, Diane (Rob) Arnold; his ex-wife, Mary Ann Schumacher; his dear friend Penny York (deceased); as well as many wonderful grandchildren and incredible friends. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
Kathryn Louise Hackney Kathryn Louise Hackney, 80, a longtime resident of East County and employee at Simpson Door Co., died in Hoquiam, Wednesday Nov. 13, 2019. Kathryn was born in Morton, Washington, Sept. 1, 1939, the daughter of Joseph and Lola (Seiber) Gorrell. The family had lived in Packwood and Randle and Kathryn graduated from Randle High School in 1957. She married Gerald “Jerry” Hackney in Blue Lake, California, Aug. 27, 1960. She had worked for Kress’s
Department Store in Aberdeen and drove pilot car and also worked in the bakery at Swanson’s market. She worked for Simpson Door Co. in McCleary for many years. Kathryn enjoyed camping, traveling and snow birding with her husband in Arizona. Kathryn is survived by two daughters, Cindy (David) McLendon and Nancy (Jim) Lawrence, of Montesano; a brother, Richard (Judy) Gorrell, McCleary and also three grandchildren, Tiffany Presswood, Hillary (Cody) Fries and
Dennis Graham Dennis Graham, a faithful brother, uncle, friend and teacher, passed away in Longview on Oct. 25, 2019. He is remembered for his positive outlook, giving spirit and helpful attitude. Born in 1942 in North Bend, Oregon, and raised in Aberdeen, Washington, he graduated from Weatherwax High School in 1961. After attending Grays Harbor Community College, Denny earned his bachelor of education degree from Western Washington University. As an elementary school teacher for Kelso School District, he worked at Butler Acres from 1965 to 1998. During his summers, he spent time caring for his mom, painting houses and troll fishing off the Washington and Oregon coasts with his brother. A favorite pastime was finding any local river to fish with good friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard, mother, Dorothy, and his brother, Gary and survived by his sister, Trudy Olson (Bill), nephew Jeff Snyder (Teresa), nieces Janet Graham (Mark McGrath), Diane Buster (Matt), Karen Dennis (Brad), and Lauri Stoll (Will); and nine grand-nephews and grand-nieces. A memorial service was held on Nov. 16 at Calvary Community Church in Longview, Washington.
Jack LeRoy Blume Haley Grayson) Unger and three great-grandchildren, George, Tyler and Leland. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry, and her grandson, Travis. At her request there were no formal funeral services. Inurnment took place in the Odd Fellows Cemetery, Elma. A condolence or a memory may be sent to the family at www.fernhillfuneral.com. Arrangements were entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home, Aberdeen.
Jack LeRoy Blume, 98, Montesano resident and former jeweler and watchmaker in Pasco, Washington, died Friday, Oct. 25, 2019, at his home in Montesano, Washington. Jack was born on Oct. 20, 1921, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, to Alton and Pearl (Garton) Blume. Jack is survived by nine nieces and nephews and a sister-in-law. He was preceded in death by a brother Vern Blume and a sister Vauna Vanhanhuer. There was an inurnment service for Jack at Fern Hill Cemetery on Monday, Nov. 4. Military honors were accorded. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, Washington.
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Linda Jean Mills Linda Jean Mills died at home on Nov. 6, 2019. She was born Dec. 1, 1947, to Vernon and Ernestine (Valentine) Wolfe at St. Joseph Hospital in Aberdeen. She married Ken Mills Sr. in March 5, 1966, at the Montesano Church of God. They celebrated over 53 years of marriage together and raised their twins born March 19, 1967. Linda was very proud of her career as a special education bus driver for the Montesano School District, retiring after 21 years in 2001 to help watch her pride and joy grandson Carson Lewis. Linda is survived by her husband at the family home, as well as her two children: Ken Mills (Leslie), Kynda Busz (Scott). She also leaves behind her siblings, Verna Meyer, Teresa Thomas, Tom (Mary) Wolfe of Montesano; Tina (Arie) Callaghan, Rod (Renée) Wolfe of Elma; Tim (Betty) Wolfe of Winlock, and Gary Wolfe of Lacey. She has five grandchildren, Breanne Antich (Jamie), Billie Cavalier (Sutton), Steven Busz (Kelsey), Carson Lewis, and Benjamin Busz and the apple of her eye great-granddaughter Ady Antich. She had a huge impact on the lives of her nieces and nephews as well with a special place in her heart for her cousin Louise Murphy and Aunt Ruthie Valentine, god-daughters Rugena Peterson (Jason) and Rumona Pehl, and great friend Jeanine Frafjord. Linda was preceded in death by her sister Pamela in 1958, her parents Vernon in 1996 and Ernestine in 2019.
Jonathan Marsalle Jack
She loved and enjoyed all wildlife with great enthusiasm, especially watching, identifying and feeding the multitudes of various birds that flocked to her yard. She enjoyed teaching her grandchildren the names and kinds of each bird. She had a beautiful yard decorated with every flower of the region. She loved to tell stories and share her experiences from her perspective told with her great sense of humor. She dearly loved all of her family’s kids and they loved her back. She loved to watch her grandsons and had a special bond with Carson and Ben. Her smile lit up the room whenever they would visit. Her conversations with Ben were always epic, challenging, intelligent, witty, respectful, with love and admiration. She talked to Kynda almost every day as their morning routine, supporting each other, advising, sharing their passions and plans to save the world, as mother/ daughter but also as best friends. This amazing lady’s life was celebrated on her 72nd birthday Dec. 1, 2019, at her daughter Kynda’s house for family and friends. She will be missed immensely by all who knew her. There aren’t enough words to express what Linda meant to us all. At this time the family would like to thank GHFD #2 for their valiant efforts in trying to save her life. We would also like to thank you all for the outpouring of comfort and condolence from her family, friends, and the community.
Jonathan Marsalle Jack Jr., a longtime resident of the Rochester area, died on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, at Providence Saint Peter Hospital in Olympia, Washington. He was born on July 23, 1994, in Centralia, Washington, and was an enrolled member of the Chehalis Tribe. He was raised and attended school on the Oakville reservation and enjoyed playing football, basketball and baseball. He was married to Jordan D. Merriman, whom he deeply loved, on April 20 at the Oakville 1910 Shaker Church in Oakville. They made their home in the Oakville/Rochester area. At the age of 18, he began his employment with the Oakville tribe in various areas of their constructions, until the time of his death. Jonathan enjoyed helping and serving other people. This included volunteering at the veterans dinners at the Lucky Eagle Casino, the Christmas dinners at the Oakville Community Center and helping out with the upkeep and cleaning at the Chehalis Tribal Cemetery. He attended the services of the 1910 Shaker Church of Oakville. His travels had taken him to Florida, California and Montana. He was always very family orientated as he loved playing with his son, fishing, working on his cars, watching movies and had a real love for working with the Oakville
Patricia “Patti” LaVenture Patricia “Patti” LaVenture went home to her Heavenly Father on Nov. 10, 2019, surrounded by her family. She was born on Oct. 21, 1930, the oldest of three. She loved her Savior, her children, her 66 grands and her 50 greats; and she loved adventures. Swimming, kayaking and biking were regular activities throughout her life. She was the great fisherman of men. She always found a way to tell someone about the love of Jesus, often over a cup of coffee. She frequently brought home people less fortunate for a meal and a warm place to
Saturday, December 21, 2019
sleep. She is survived by her children: Lee (Barbra); Lynn (Mark); Lorraine (Marty); Lane (Missy); Lonn (Christa); Loritha (Ed) and many others that called her Mom. Two children, Laurie and Lance; four grands; and two siblings, Diane and Earl, were awaiting her heavenly arrival. A celebration of life service was held Nov. 30, 2019, at Revolution Church 3415 S. Peabody St., Port Angeles, Washington. Potluck following.
tribe on its projects. He was very well known for mastering his 101 ways of making potatoes, a true chef. He is survived by his wife, Jordan D. Jack, and his son, Ezrah N. Jack, both of the Rochester family home; his mother, Carla J. Thomas of Rochester; his brothers, Aaron Myer, Frazier Myer, Geo Jack, Wild Owens and Johnny Jack; his sisters, Elaine Myer, Sarah Myer and Lydia Owens; his niece, Sophia Ruelas; his nephews, Benz Whitlock and Dallas Youckton; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and other relatives. Jonathan was preceded in death by his father, Jonathan M. Jack Sr., grandma, Jo Aldrich; his grandfather, Garnet Aldrich; his brother, Joseph Myer; and an uncle Dwayne Thomas. A candlelight service was held at 7 p.m. Nov. 20, 2019. An Indian Shaker service was at 9 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019, both at the Oakville Shaker Church with Wynona Youckton officiating and Ray Lopez Sr. as an honorary speaker. Interment was at the Chehalis Tribal Cemetery in Oakville. Arrangements are by the Coleman Mortuary in Hoquiam. Please take a few moments to record your thoughts for the family by signing the online register at www. colemanmortuary.net.
To place a loved one’s Memoriam or Obituary please call 360-532-4000
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Saturday, December 21, 2019
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Viola Ada Nolan March 26, 1933 to November 4, 2019 Viola Ada Nolan, longtime resident of Central Park in Aberdeen, Washington, and formerly of Kelso, Washington, entered heaven’s gates into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior on Nov. 4, 2019, at the age of 86. Viola leaves behind her husband, Ivan, whom she was married to for 71 years, her son Jerry of Hoquiam and her daughter Linda of Olympia. Her sons Ronnie (1948), Randy (2002) and Larry (2010) preceded her in death. She leaves behind grandchildren, LeeAnn, Terri, Eric, Tommy and Matthew of KelsoLongview; Chad and Dana of Olympia: Jennifer, Wendy and Christina of Grays Harbor and numerous great and great-great grandchildren. Grandson, Steve preceded her in death (2013). Viola worked as an activity director at several nursing home facilities over the course of her career where she immensely enjoyed and genuinely cared for the elderly residents, retiring in 2000 from Grays Harbor Community Hospital Long Term Care after
15 years of service. She was a member of the Washington State Activity Director Association and was awarded Activity Director of the Year in 1998. Viola’s devotion to her family was steadfast and her belief in God unwavering. She was honored as Mother of the Year every year by her children. She was a member of the Central Park Neighborhood Church for over 30 years. Viola impacted so many people’s lives with her caring ways and teaching of the goodness of God and his promises. Heaven has truly received a most worthy servant. A memorial service to say goodbye to this amazing woman and extraordinary mother was held at the Central Park Neighborhood Church at 7312 Bryrwood Drive in Aberdeen, on Saturday,
Nov. 23, 2019. Viola has been entombed at the St. John Cemetery in the Wishkah Valley. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” 2 Timothy 4:7-8.
Lily “Sammie” Dameron Lily “Sammie” Dameron died on Nov. 8, 2019, at Grays Harbor Community Hospital. She was born on Aug. 25, 1951, in Los Angeles, California. Sammie is survived by her husband Jim, sons, Dan and K.C., mother Won, sisters Helen and Fern, brother Leonard, daughters-in-law Stacey and Hilary, grandchildren Jake, Olive,
Ivy and Charlie and numerous other family and friends. Her memorial service was held on Saturday, Nov. 16, at Montesano Presbyterian Church, 201 McBryde Ave. East. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Uganda Mission in Sammie’s name. Donations can be made to: P.O. Box 110, Montesano, WA 98563.
Dina Mae Trapp Dina Mae Trapp, 70, passed away peacefully with her family at her side at Providence St. Peter Hospital in Olympia, on Tuesday Oct. 15, at 11:50 a.m. Dina spent her youth skiing, as a ski instructor. She was president of the Kappa Kappa Gamma alumni at University of Washington and traveled extensively. Dina earned a Masters in Linguistics from Fresno State University and earned her living as an ESL instructor at Fresno State University and Woodbury College in the Monterey Institute. Dina lived in Korea for seven years where she was an instructor at the University of Pusan, where she became a published author. After retiring, Dina moved to Grays Harbor and became a dedicated
volunteer, supporting her community. Dina was active in NAMI, Canine Reading Buddies, Grays Harbor Rock and Gem, South Beach Art Association and Aberdeen Art Drives, Aberdeen Library Displays and much more. Dina was a devoted Baha’i and an active member in all communities that she lived in. Dina leaves behind her sister, Ellen Price, nieces Kim Bambauer and Kathleen Price and nephew Geoffrey Price as well as many family members, friends, neighbors along with her beloved emotional support companion, Precious. Dina was preceded in death by her twin sister, Christina Trapp and mother Gertrude Trapp. Her family and friends will miss her laughter, whistling, and positivity.
Billie Bernita Salick Billie Bernita Salick, 94, beloved wife, mother and Nana, passed away Oct. 30, 2019, at Brookdale Courtyard in Puyallup, Washington. Billie was born April 30, 1925, to Don Wallace and Oriel Effie (Blue) Brown in Aberdeen, Washington. She graduated from J. M. Weatherwax High School in 1944. Billie retired from Grays Harbor Paper. She missed being around people so she went back to work, working for Sears. She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Billie married John Salick Jan. 7, 1944, in Montesano, Washington. She is survived by her sons, John (Carol) Salick and Dick (Gina) Salick, daughters, Lesli (Bodie) Martin and
Vicki Salick and a sister, Beverly Williams-Trost. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Angel (Bryan) Gagne, Kyle Martin, Cole Martin, Kelsi (Scott) Rice, John Salick, Dominic Salick, Daryl (Stephen) Schlather and Anna (Ross) Powell; 12 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, her husband, John (2005), son, Michael Salick, and her brother Don Brown. A family gathering took place Saturday, Nov. 9, at Harrison Family Mortuary 311 W. Market St., Aberdeen, Washington, with Marcus McDaniel officiating. An entombment followed at Fern Hill Cemetery Colonnades in Aberdeen, Washington.
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Leah Mary Wilmarth Morasch Leah Mary Wilmarth Morasch, age 79, of Vancouver, Washington, died Nov. 18, 2019. She was born on Oct. 25, 1940, in Hoquiam, Washington, to Richard Cross Wilmarth II and Mary White Wilmarth. She married her love, Daniel Morasch, in 1968, who proceeded her in death in 2011. Leah will forever be remembered by her loyal siblings: Richard Wilmarth III, Catherine Laatz and brother-n-law, John Laatz; beloved children: son, Mark Morasch, daughter-in-law, Gemma Morasch and grandchildren, Giancarlo Barbera, Declan, Aibhlinn and Stella Morasch; daughter, Tammi Morasch; son, Matthew Morasch, and grandchildren, Eoin and Brennan Morasch, as well as many cherished extended family members and friends. Leah graduated from Washington State University in 1962, with a bachelor’s degree in social work and worked as a social worker in Clark County for many years. She married Dan and immediately became a mother to Mark (4 yrs), and Tammi (2 yrs), embracing them as her own. Several years later she gave birth to Matt, and all welcomed him to the family. A dedicated mother, she rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on her children in sports activities and support them in pursuing their interests. She supported St. Joseph’s School, where her children attended, serving as the
health room mother, carpool leader and the latrine captain for the St. Joseph’s Sausage Fest for many years. Leah was a caring person, who connected easily with others. She often found the person sitting alone at a social gathering and immediately struck up a lively conversation. She enjoyed time with her family and friends skiing, exercising at the Oxford Club, and visiting their family’s properties on the Washougal River, and Murphy Lake in British Columbia. She also appreciated the company of many dogs and cats through the years. Leah was an active member of the Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO). She valued her Christian faith and was a member of the Glenwood Community Church and the Bible Study Fellowship, where she found great solace. A celebration of her life was held on Saturday, Dec. 7. Graveside services were held at the Evergreen Memorial Gardens, 1101 NE 112th Ave., Vancouver. Funeral Services were held at the Glenwood Community Church, 12202 NE 72nd Ave., Vancouver. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Leah Morasch to the DY Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO), care of Andrea Hanson, 116 South Santa Fe Court, Vancouver WA 98661. Arrangements were entrusted to Vancouver Funeral Chapel.
Saturday, December 21, 2019
Phil B. Perkins Phil B. Perkins of Palm Springs, California passed away Oct. 21, 2019. Phil was born in Aberdeen, Washington, to Jack and Fleeta Perkins. He was raised in Aberdeen, graduating from Weatherwax High School in 1957. Phil served in the Army National Guard. He worked at various jobs throughout his life before retiring in 2012. He lived in Chelan and Olympia before moving to Palm Springs. He was a member of the Aberdeen Elks Lodge and loved being involved with them. He also enjoyed golfing with friends. Phil married the love of his life, Donna McHugh Soran Perkins, on April 3, 1975. He is survived by two sons and five step-children. There was no service.
LaDonna J. Eilers LaDonna J. Eilers, 91, a resident of Aberdeen for three years, died at Montesano, Washington, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. She was born in Bertrand, Nebraska, Jan. 6, 1928, the daughter of John and Clara (Tirey) Schleeter. She attended Nebraska schools and was married to John V. Eilers in Kearney, Nebraska, April 24, 1946. They continued to live in Kearney and she worked for Northwestern Public Gas Co. for 20 years, retiring in 1983. Mr. Eilers died July 23, 2016, in Kearney, Nebraska. LaDonna came to live with her son, John L. (Lorrie) Eilers of Central Park early in 2017. LaDonna was a member of St. James Catholic Church in Kearney and also the Eagles Aerie and Elks Lodge in Kearney. She enjoyed camping and cooking. LaDonna is survived by two sons: John (Lorrie) Eilers, Central Park and Ron (Jo) Eilers, Kearney,
Nebraska; eight grandchildren: Jon Eilers, Aaron (Melinda) Eilers, Adam (Misha) Eilers, Brad (Karla) Eilers, Joely Eilers, Angela (Carl) Perryman, Jace Lundgren and Keri Bird and also 11 great-grandchildren. There are two nieces, Lacretrica Hazlett and Janice Utecht; a nephew, Lanny Hoover. Special friends from Nebraska, Gene (Twyla) Simpkins and friends from Washington, Rob (Linda) McCue, Ed, Jeannie and Anthony Gegen, and Sean Johnson. At her request there was no formal memorial service. Inurnment of John V. and LaDonna Eilers will be in the family cemetery in Kearney, NB. A card of condolence with a message or a memory may be sent the family at www.fernhillfuneral.
com. Arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home, Aberdeen.
To place a loved one’s Memoriam or Obituary please call 360-532-4000
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Saturday, December 21, 2019
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Jack Bastin Jack Bastin, 94, longtime Aberdeen resident, beloved father, grandpa and great-grandpa passed away peacefully in Tumwater, Washington. He was born in Aberdeen, Washington, to Walter and Eliza Bastin. Jack graduated from Weatherwax High School in 1943. He served as a radio mechanic in the Army Air Force during WWII, graduated from CWU and taught school for many years. “Mr. B” taught industrial arts at both Miller and Hopkins Jr. High, headed the Lettermen’s Club and coached track until his retirement in 1982. In addition, he served many years as both unit and camp director at Camp Bishop. Jack married Barbara Wilkinson in 1947. They are survived by two sons, Brink (Janet) Bastin and Brad (Sharon) Bastin all of Olympia, two daughters, Rebecca (Michael) Wilson of Redmond, Washington and Jana (Brent) Christensen of Rochester, Washington, 10 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Jack later married
Betty Jo McGregor in 1993. He was predeceased by his wife Barbara, his wife Betty Jo, his brother Leonard and sister-in-law Helen. Jack was a member of the Aberdeen Elks Lodge 593, the United Methodist Church and Amazing Grace Lutheran Church. He was passionate about spending time with family, dancing, clam digging, wood working, class reunions and his garden. He also enjoyed traveling during his retirement years. A private graveside ceremony took place at Fern Hill Cemetery. A celebratory gathering was held on Friday, Nov. 8, at the Aberdeen Elks Club, 1712 S. Boone St., Aberdeen. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Alzheimer’s Research Foundation or to a chrity of one’s choice. Arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, Washington.
To place a loved one’s Memoriam or Obituary please call 360-532-4000
Ellen Hazel (Sackrider) Chadwick Ellen Hazel (Sackrider) Chadwick was born in Elma, Washington, to George and Gladys (Mason) Sackrider. She lived in Montesano and attended Montesano High School and received her secretarial certificate from Grays Harbor Community College. Ellen married Jerry Chadwick in Montesano in May of 1973, where they made their home since. She was happily surrounded by many friends and family members in her last days. Ellen was a fixture at Montesano High School sporting events and particularly enjoyed watching her children and grandchildren participate for the Bulldogs. She also enjoyed playing cards, volunteering at the ‘Shop with a Cop’ program and attending (often hosting) large family gatherings.
She is preceded in death by her parents and two brothers Larry Madoche and Mike Sackrider. She is survived by her husband, Jerry; son, Brian (Trish) Chadwick of Moses Lake; daughter, Ranee (Doug) Farmer of Montesano; brother, Joe (Becki) Sackrider of Bay Center; four grandchildren Scott (Sara) Rohr, Chelsea Rohr, Shaydon Farmer and Baylie Farmer; three great-grandchildren Kaydance, Levi and Hunter as well as numerous nieces and nephews. A celebration of life was held on Nov. 23 at the Montesano Moose Lodge, 3 Monte Elma Road. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations be made in Ellen’s name to the Montesano High School ASB Athletic programs, 303 N. Church Street, Montesano, WA 98563.
Harry J. Jenna Harry J. Jenna, 96, beloved father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away Oct. 22, 2019, in Lacey, Washington. He was born to Joseph and Ursula Jenna on Sept. 27, 1923, in Aberdeen, Washington. Harry graduated from Aberdeen’s Weatherwax High School in 1943. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII. Upon his discharge, he attended the Perry Institute in Yakima, Washington. Harry married Bernice Poirier from Yakima in 1949. He is survived by his and Bernice’s two children, Marie (Daniel) O’Leary and David (Renee) Jenna, all of Olympia; three grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, Bernice (1960); brother, John; sister, Ida; and sister-in-law, Lucille. Harry later
married Marjorie Hyatt, and moved to Olympia in 1967. He will be greatly missed by friends and family. Harry retired from the U.S. Postal Service, and was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. His passions included spending time with family, square dancing, building structures, fishing, gardening and clam digging. He and his wife, Marjorie, also enjoyed traveling, making trips to Hawaii, Tahiti, England, Ireland, Germany, Italy, Australia and New Zealand. A funeral service was held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Lacey on Monday, Nov. 18, 2019, followed by a reception at the church. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to a charity of your choice. Please share memories at www.FuneralAlternatives.org.
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River Hylinne Barclay Sweet River Hylinne Barclay passed away Monday, Nov. 18, 2019, at Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital with her family by her side. She was 9. River was born on Jan. 27, 2010, to John and Michelle (McClintock) Barclay in Aberdeen, Washington. She attended school at A.J. West Elementary, where the MakeA-Wish Foundation funded the River Resource Room in her honor. River loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them at Sam Benn Park and the beach. However, snuggling up to watch her favorite shows while enjoying pumpkin pie or chocolate pudding had to be her favorite. Some of River’s favorite things were “The Last Unicorn,” “Frozen,” “Big Hero 6,” My Little Pony, Rainbow Dash, Sheriff Callie, unicorns, butterflies and anything purple. Her dogs, Gwendolyn and Oban, always brought a smile to her face with their wagging tails and loving nudges. River is survived by her loving parents, John Barclay and Michelle (Dan) Kinnaman, both of Aberdeen; step-mother Courtney Barclay of Aberdeen; siblings Angel, Kristian and Tyler; grandparents Monica and Bill McClintock of Morgan Hill, California, Marie Barclay of California and Emily Cook of Aberdeen, Washington; and numerous loving family member and friends. She was preceded in death by her grandfather Lewis Philip Barclay, and beloved dog Paisley. Celebration times and dates can be requested from River’s parents. Her parents request any donations be made to the A.J. West River Resource Room to keep River’s legacy moving forward. Arrangements are entrusted to Harrison Family Mortuary of Aberdeen.
Ronald James Davis Ronald J. Davis spent his life in Hoquiam, Washington. He served in the Marine Corps during the Korean War effort and worked at Ovalstrapping Inc. for 39 years. Ron is survived by his wife, Jerri Sue, sons, Jeffrey and John, and his grandchildren, nieces, nephews and numerous friends. A memorial was held Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019, at the Hoquiam Elks Club 624 “K” St. Hoquiam, WA 98550
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Ervin W. Arndt Ervin Wayne Arndt, 84, of McCleary, Washington, died of a pulmonary embolism on Nov. 19, 2019, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born June 9, 1935, in McCleary to Irvin Howard Arndt and Alice Marie (Holmes) Vondrasek. A resident of McCleary for 51 years, he also resided in Maryland, South Carolina, Washington, D.C, and California. Ervin married June Cunningham on June 7, 1958, in San Francisco, California. He served 11 years in the U.S. Navy as an E-6 machine accountant aboard the USS Gilmore. He was then called back to Washington, D.C., where he served out the remainder of his enlistment as a communications specialist. After his discharge from the Navy, Erwin worked for Washington State Department of Information Services, where he was instrumental in setting up and maintaining
mainframe computers when they were in their infancy. He continued his career with the State until retiring in 1993. His interests included playing pinochle, reading, watching sports and attending family get-togethers. Ervin is survived by his wife, June Arndt; his children, Christine Smith, Darline (David) Franklin, Ervin Wayne Jr. (Catherine), Aaron Arndt, Carl (Merrilee) Arndt, Charline (Tyrone) Emerson, Jeremy Arndt, Natalie Arndt (Mitch); sister, Lorine Sizemore; half-sister, Diane Nielsen; 17 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Irvin Howard Arndt and mother, Alice Marie Vondrasek. A military service at Tahoma National Cemetery will be announced later. Please share memories at www.FuneralAlternatives.org.
Janice Elizabeth Schimelpfenig Janice Elizabeth Schimelpfenig of Oakville, Washington, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2019, at Providence Hospital in Centralia. She was 85. Janice was born June 28, 1934, in Des Moines, Iowa, to John and Dorothy (Reasoner) Dooley. She was raised in Ridgefield and the Vancouver, Washington, area and had also lived in Minnesota. Janice graduated from Ridgefield High School in 1951 and attended Clark College for one year. She had worked for Nabisco in Portland, Oregon, Alcoa in Vancouver, Lumber Wholesale in Portland and J & M Shake in Ridgefield. She had attended Lutheran Churches in both Vancouver and Ocean Park, Washington. Janice married Walter R. Schimelpfenig in 1954. He passed away in 1996. On Oct. 11, 2006, Janice married Bernard H. Meile at a Benedictine Chapel of the Rock on Shaw Island, Washington.
In addition to her loving husband, Bernard “Buck,” she is also survived by her children Rick Schimelpfenig; Gregory, Jeffrey, Marcus, Matthew and Bernard Meile III; Jerri Lee Jones, Joni Kay Keeney, Lisa Danette Duncan, Julia Marie Reaves, Cory Renee Dubuis and Stephanie Kaye Shriver; sisters JoAnn Schimelpfenig, Patricia (David) Hagensen and Pamela (Dee) Farr; 17 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. Janice was laid to rest at Ridgefield Cemetery. A Memorial Mass was held on Nov. 21 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Elma, Washington. Memorials in memory of Janice are suggested to St. Joseph’s Indian School, P.O. Box 326, Chamberlain, S.D. 57326. To share memories or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.harrisonfamilymortuary.com. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Harrison Family Mortuary in Montesano, Washington.
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Saturday, December 21, 2019
The Daily World
Arline I. “Sue” Graham Arline I. “Sue” Graham, 69 years of age and a lifetime Harborite, died on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019, at her Hoquiam home. She was born on September 1, 1950, in Aberdeen to Buster and Martha (Tucker) Davenport Sr. Sue was raised and attended school in Aberdeen and graduated from the Aberdeen High School in 1969. While in school she enjoyed playing softball. Arline Iris Graham was married to Lucky Sidney Graham in 1970 in Aberdeen. He died on 1997. “Grandma Sue” enjoyed talking with people and helping them out in their time of need. She enjoyed all types of sporting events, watching her grandchildren and her nieces and nephews in their activities and wathching them growing up. Grandma Sue held the family together with their numerous gatherings and dinners. “Grandma Sue” liked going to the area casinos, traveling about Europe and going on cruises. Arline Iris Graham is survived by her son, Justin and Kathryn Graham of Hoquiam, her daughters, Kami Graham of Hoquiam and Jennifer Graham and William Whitney of Aberdeen; three grandchildren, Ellie Graham, Trenton Graham and Grace Graham; her brother, Buster Davenport Jr. and Sharon Davenport of Copperas Cove, Texas; numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lucky Sidney Graham in 1997; a daughter, Keely Graham; her sisters, Jean Brooks and Diane Dragoo and her brothers, Dan Davenport, Tim Davenport, Dave Davenport and Gary Davenport. A celebration of her life was held on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019, at the Hoquiam Grand Central, 427 7th Street in Hoquiam. Arrangements are by the Coleman Mortuary, 422 5th Street in Hoquiam, Washington. Please take a few moments to record your thoughts for the family by signing the on-line register at www.colemanmortuary.net.
Kenneth Stanley Strozyk Kenneth Stanley Strozyk, a longtime resident of McCleary, Washington, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2019, at the age of 84 from a terminal stroke. He was a graduate of Willapa Valley High School class of 1953. Upon graduation he joined the U.S. Navy where he served four years as a personnelman petty officer 2nd class. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned to the Willapa Harbor area, where he met the love of his life, Lou Ann Owens. Ken was a well-known clerk and manager for the Dennis Company hardware store in Raymond, Washington, where he enjoyed assisting friends and customers for over 18 years. He later owned the Montesano Hardware Store for four years. He also enjoyed selling automobiles for Boone Ford in Olympia until his retirement in 2000. Ken was a member in good standing of the Lions Club, American Legion and St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. He served one term as City Councilman for the City of McCleary, Washington. Ken is survived by his wife of 61 years, Lou Ann and his children Kenneth L. (Janice), Terence J., Jerry W. (Yong) and Karen M. (Paul) LaDue. eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Tony, Larry, Eugene, Charlie, Mary and Carolyn. He was preceded in death by brothers Vern, Frank, James, Ted and Steve. Funeral mass was held Monday, Nov. 18, at the St. Lawrence Catholic Church, with burial following at the Fern Hill Cemetery in Menlo. Following the burial, there was a potluck lunch at St. Lawrence Church. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to a charity of your choice. Arrangements are in care of Stoller’s Mortuary in Raymond, Washington. You may visit www.StollersMortuary.com to leave condolences for the family
NOTABLE DEATHS
Former Japanese prime minister Yasuhiro Nakasone Bloomberg News
Yasuhiro Nakasone, the outspoken Japanese prime minister who raised his nation’s profile on the world stage in the 1980s and worked to soothe relations with the U.S. during trade disputes, died Nov. 29 at the age of 101, public broadcaster NHK reported. The son of a timber merchant, Nakasone survived enemy attacks while serving as a naval officer in World War II and went on to a political career spanning seven decades, leading Japan’s government from 1982 to 1987. As premier, he boosted defense and foreign-aid spending, broke up state monopolies and backed U.S. President Ronald Reagan’s tough approach toward the Soviet Union during the Cold War. The two men had a friendship that helped Nakasone blunt tensions over Japan’s widening trade surplus with the U.S. “The five-year reign of the dynamic, much-traveled Nakasone put Japan on the world map — and the rest of the world on Japan’s map,” Time magazine wrote upon his resignation as prime minister. A graduate of the prestigious Tokyo Imperial University, Nakasone was first elected to parliament in 1947 and would remain in politics until 2003. As prime minister, he gained a reputation as a nationalist for increasing the defense budget and visiting Tokyo’s Yasukuni Shrine, where Japanese war criminals are enshrined along with others killed in the nation’s wars. Nakasone himself said he wanted a greater international role for Japan after it had spent decades looking inward while rebuilding the economy. Nakasone more than doubled Japan’s overseas development aid during his term. Domestically, he oversaw the sale of Nippon Telegraph & Telephone and the predecessor of Japan Tobacco Inc., both state-owned monopolies, and presided over the breakup of Japan National Railways. Nakasone was born May 27, 1918, in Takasaki city in Gunma prefecture, northwest of Tokyo. He was the third of six children, two of whom died young. He grew up playing in his father’s timber yard, fishing in streams and training homing pigeons, he recalled in his 1999 book. He excelled in math and English in school and was accepted at Tokyo Imperial University, where he set his sights on a civil-service career. Nakasone served as an officer aboard a cruiser during World War II. In December 1941, he came under a U.S. air attack while helping build an airfield on the Philippine island of Mindanao. The next month, he helped cremate the bodies of 23 comrades who were killed in an attack on his convoy off Borneo. His younger brother, Ryosuke, was also killed in the war. Four decades later, as prime minister, Nakasone apologized for Japan’s wartime actions in a speech to the United Nations.
The Daily World
Saturday, December 21, 2019
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NOTABLE DEATHS
William Ruckelshaus, Nixon nemesis who headed EPA By Patrick Oster Bloomberg News
NEW YORK — William Ruckelshaus, the first head of the Environmental Protection Agency who later became a heroic figure for resisting President Richard Nixon’s attempts to cover up the Watergate scandal, has died. He was 87. He died Nov. 27 at his home in Seattle, according to The New York Times, citing his daughter Mary Ruckelshaus. Named by Time magazine as one of the 10 best Cabinet officers of the 20th century, Ruckelshaus took charge of the newly created EPA in 1970 and made headlines for pushing through health-based standards for air pollutants and car emissions, and for banning the pesticide DDT. In 1973, he became best known for defying Nixon’s order to fire Watergate special prosecutor Archibald Cox, who had subpoenaed the White House for copies of tapes made of conversations in the Oval Office. After Nixon had cleaned house in his administration following the resignations of his top aides H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman, Ruckelshaus became acting director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which was probing charges of abuses of power at the heart of the Watergate matter. He quickly became deputy attorney general, the No. 2 post at the Justice Department, under the new attorney general, Elliot Richardson. Following the 1973 ouster of Nixon’s vice president, Spiro Agnew, based on
OLIVIER DOULIERY/ABACA PRESS
President Barack Obama gives the Presidential Medal of Freedom to former Environmental Protection Agency head William Ruckelshaus during a ceremony in 2015.
evidence uncovered by the Justice Department, Richardson informed Ruckelshaus that Nixon wanted Cox fired in order to avoid turning over the incriminating tapes. “I remember saying, ‘Don’t worry about it,’” Ruckelshaus said in a 2005 C-SPAN interview, recalling his response to his boss about the White House’s plan. “They’ll never do that. There would be too much of a public furor if they tried. Shows how little I knew.”
Richardson formally refused to fire Cox and resigned on Oct. 20, 1973. Ruckelshaus did the same, leaving the job to Robert Bork, the solicitor general. Nixon’s firing of Cox and the departures of Richardson and Ruckelshaus became known as the “Saturday Night Massacre.” “I couldn’t have done anything else,” Ruckelshaus said, according to a 1976 article in People magazine. “What the president was asking me to do was fundamentally wrong.”
Ruckelshaus, who had been a legislator in Indiana before his Washington jobs, returned to his home state to practice law until 1975, when he moved his family to Seattle to become senior vice president of Weyerhaeuser Co. President Ronald Reagan’s chief of staff, James Baker, persuaded Ruckelshaus in 1983 to return to the EPA, which was in disarray following the tenure of Anne Burford. He helped the agency impose controls on
hazardous waste, restore and protect Chesapeake Bay in Maryland and Virginia and remove the pesticide ethylene dibromide, also known as EDB, from use on U.S. farms. William Doyle Ruckelshaus was born July 24, 1932, in Indianapolis to John K. Ruckelshaus, a lawyer who was chairman of the Platform Committee at five Republican national conventions, and Marion Doyle Ruckelshaus. He had an older brother, John, and a younger sister, Bonney.
Ruckelshaus earned a bachelor’s degree at Princeton University in 1957 and a law degree at Harvard Law School three years later. He was deputy attorney general in Indiana from 1960 to 1965 and became a member of the state’s House of Representatives in 1967. After leaving government in 1985, Ruckelshaus joined the Seattle law firm Perkins Coie before becoming chief executive officer of Browning-Ferris Industries Inc. in 1988. Then serving as its chairman for 11 years, he left to become a principal at Madrona Investment Group LLC, a private investment business in Seattle, and also a partner in Madrona Venture Group. Interested in the environment since his time in state government, “Ruck,” as his friends called him, was chairman of the World Resources Institute, a special envoy to the Pacific Salmon Treaty between the U.S. and Canada, and a member of the President’s Council for Sustainable Development from 1993 to 1997. His first wife died while giving birth, leaving him a widower with twin daughters, Cathy and Mary, to care for. In 1962, he married Jill Strickland, with whom he had three more children: Jennifer, William Jr. and Robin. Jill Ruckelshaus was an adviser on women’s rights to President Nixon and later a member of the U.S. Civil Rights Commission and the National Women’s Political Caucus. She resigned her White House post after Ruckelshaus’s resignation in the “Saturday Night Massacre.”
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Saturday, December 21, 2019
The Daily World
NOTABLE DEATHS
Caroll Spinney, puppeteer behind Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch By Peter Sblendorio New York Daily News
“Sesame Street” icon Caroll Spinney, the puppeteer who played Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch during his nearly five decades on the children’s show, died Dec. 8 at age 85. His death was announced by the Sesame Workshop, which said Spinney had been living with Dystonia “for some time.” He passed away at his home in Connecticut, the nonprofit organization that puts on “Sesame Street” said. “Caroll was an artistic genius whose kind and loving view of the world helped shape and define Sesame Street from its earliest days in 1969 through five decades, and his legacy here at Sesame Workshop and in the cultural firmament will be unending,” reads a tribute to Spinney on the Sesame Workshop website. “His enormous talent and outsized heart were perfectly suited to playing the larger-than-life yellow bird who brought joy to generations of children and countless fans of all ages around the world, and his lovably cantankerous grouch gave us all permission to be cranky once in a while.” Spinney joined “Sesame Street” for the inaugural season in 1969 and played a variety of characters over the years, but none were more prominent than the yellow, 8-foot-tall Big Bird or the trash-can-inhabiting Oscar, both of whom have remained among the show’s most popular characters for decades. He retired from the long-running series in
THEO WARGO/GETTY IMAGES
”Sesame Street” icon Caroll Spinney, the puppeteer who played Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch during his nearly five decades on the children’s show, died Dec. 8.
October 2018. Spinney is survived by his wife, Debra, and their three children. His death was mourned by many, including Joan Ganz Cooney, a co-founder of “Sesame Street.” “Caroll Spinney’s contributions to Sesame Street are countless,’ she said in a statement. “He not only gave us Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch, he gave so much of himself as well. We at Sesame Workshop mourn his passing and feel an immense gratitude for all he has given to Sesame Street and to children around the world.” Meanwhile, Mayor de Blasio offered condolences to Spinney’s loved ones on behalf of the 8.6 million New Yorkers. “Generations of children learned kindness,
compassion and friendship from Caroll Spinney —and his characters embodied the heart of our city,” he tweeted. Spinney operated the beloved puppet characters in hundreds of episodes of “Sesame Street.” Upon announcing his retirement last year, Spinney shared what his many years on the series meant to him. “Before I came to Sesame Street, I didn’t feel like what I was doing was very important,” Spinney said at the time. “Big Bird helped me find my purpose. Even as I step down from my roles, I feel I will always be Big Bird. And even Oscar, once in a while! They have given me great joy, led me to my true calling and created a lifetime of memories that I will cherish forever.”