Obituaries

Senes D. Orton, 78

2009-01-12T09:30:00.000-08:00

Senes Duane Orton, 78, passed away Thursday, January 8, 2009, at his home in Elk City.

Senes was born on June 14, 1930, in Kittanning, Pennsylvania to Senes A. and Margaret R. Smith Orton. He went to school until he began employment at Piper’s Body Shop in Kittanning. During his youth, Senes was an avid hunter and marksman and developed a great love for the outdoors, sometimes to the exclusion of attending school. He moved to Lewiston in 1951 and married Ellen McAllister on February 23, 1952.

Senes was drafted into the army in April of that year and served in Korea until March 1954, when he returned to Lewiston.

He worked at Gray Buick and later Chuck’s Body shop where he was employed for 31 years. Senes started his own body shop, “Senes Orton Body & Paint” from 1986-1992, as well as repairing and refinishing furniture.

He was active in the Sourdough Post of the VFW, and the Dirt Devils of Elk City.
His hobbies include traveling, collecting guns, hunting, fishing, spending time with his family and Happy Hour. Senes wintered in Arizona for 15 years and never met a person he didn’t consider a friend. Senes was a social butterfly.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Ellen Orton at the family home; sons Duane and wife Nancy, Paul and wife Anita; and daughter Sena and Wayne, all of Lewiston. Grandchildren include Nathan & Traci Orton of Portland, Marcus and Angie of Boise, Troy and Jamie & son Kayden, and Felicia Almeida and daughter Jayden, both of Lewiston. Senes is also survived by three brothers, Ron & Anneliese of Lewiston, Joe & Jan of Boise, and Larry & Jeane of Lewiston, Harry & Gloria McAllister of Portland, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Senes and Margaret; his brother, Dean, and grandson, Kyron.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2009, at 2:00 p.m., at the Salvation Army, 1835 G. St., Lewiston, followed by a potluck luncheon. An addition service will be celebrated in Elk City at a later date.

Cremation is under the direction of the Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville.

Condolences may be sent to the family at http://www.blackmerfuneralhome.com/.

Memorials, if desired, may be made to the charity of your choice.

Dana M. Nordin, 56

2009-01-04T08:57:00.000-08:00

Dana Mark Nordin, 56, of Mount Idaho, passed away unexpectedly on December 29, 2008, at his home in Mt Idaho.
He was born in Alexandria, Minnesota to Orrin & Mary Nordin on September 7, 1952. Shortly afterwards, they moved to Garden Grove, California.

Dana attended Crosby Elementary, Walton Jr. High, and Garden Grove High School. It was during those early years that Dana acquired friendships that would last a lifetime. Among them was the infamous Gamma Street gang, with Dana and Brian Biller being the ring leaders. It was the summer of 1960 that their bond was sealed forever as “Blood Brothers”.

Dana never met a person he didn't like. He was a friend to all, clinging to those very special friendships of his youth with frequent phone calls, “just checking up on you”, he'd say. He had a heart of gold and wanted for nothing but your friendship. He was a simple man yet had the depth of a philosopher. Dana was a real “thinker”. He loved to pen his thoughts and poems and share them with others. His most famous saying was “Kick back and coast awhile”. He was always sharing his ideas of inventions or inspirations. He never had a harsh word or criticism for anyone. He had a quiet easy going personality. He grew up in the 60's and stayed there, although his life was quite diverse.

He was the only one of the Gamma Street gang to be drafted into the Army. He was stationed at Fort Bliss, Texas. After serving his country he followed in his father's footsteps as a carpenter. He spent many years in the construction business in California, honing his skills in concrete breaking and sawing. He was very proud of his work. Dana also took after his mom as a collector of collections. He was as he called himself “the King of D-Mart”. His most prized collections were his Hot Wheels.

His early years camping and jeeping with his family would lead to an intense love for off road racing. Again, following in his father's footsteps, he raced in the Mexican 1000 and the Baja 500. The highlight of his racing career was when he raced his quad in Australia. His dream was to ride his quad from one end of the United States to the other. He gave up that dream to move to Idaho in 1998 to help his father in his construction business when his father's health was failing.

Aside from construction Dana also had another very special gift in caring for those less fortunate. He was often called “The Rescuer”. He not only rescued people in need, along the way he rescued any and every animal that came to his doorstep. He spent many years in wildlife rehabilitation caring for every kind of animal you can imagine. He especially loved birds and cats. However, his calling was for disabled animals and people alike. Dana was a huge blessing to his family these past 10 years in caring for Steve, his brother-in-law, in his home. He was heartbroken when just 3 weeks ago, Steve passed away suddenly.

He is survived by his 4 siblings, Jill Kline of Anaheim, California, Lynn (Jim) Welborn of Grangeville, Idaho, Beth (Bo) Wendel of Farmington, Utah, and Reid (Jill) Nordin of Lake Elsinore, California; 11 nieces and nephews, and 4 grandnieces and nephews. Dana's passing leaves another huge whole in our family and he will be missed tremendously. We love you big brother.

Dana was preceded in death by his grandparents; parents; his brother-in-laws, Steve Clark and Jan Kline.

A memorial service was held in Grangeville at the Christian Church on January 5, 2009.
According to his wishes, his ashes will be spread near his father's memorial in the Anza-Borrego Desert near Salton Sea, where the family spent many years jeeping.

“I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize.” Phillippians 3:14.

Arrangements were under the direction of Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.

James W. York, 83

2008-12-31T15:40:00.000-08:00

James Wilburn York, 83, of Boise formerly of Lucile, passed away December 29, 2008, at a Boise care center from complications of pneumonia.

He was born May 17, 1925, to Fred and Vera York, in Del Rio, Texas.

Jim spent his early years on ranches in Texas. He joined the U. S. Navy and served in Air Traffic Control in Pensacola, Florida during World War II. There, he met and married Gena, with whom he had eight children. Shortly after discharge from the Navy, Jim and Gena moved to Texas, and then Idaho, where they spent their lives.

After working in the logging industry for a few years near Kamiah, Jim became the ranch foreman for the Brown family of Grangeville, Idaho. Jim and family lived and worked on several ranches owned by the Browns. Although Jim also farmed during those years, he most enjoyed the time spent with the cows and horses. In 1979, Jim bought a semi-truck and spent several years transporting hay and cattle in the Riggins and Grangeville area. Jim retired in 1986, at which time he moved to Boise in order to care for Gena, until her death in 1987. Jim continued to live in Boise from that time.

Jim is survived by his children, Sandra of Fort Collins, Colorado, Sharon of Boise, Idaho, Jay and wife Kathy of Cody, Wyoming, Miriam and husband Wally of Winchester, Idaho, Maureen of Boise, Cheryl and husband Ted of Wellington, Colorado, and Charlotte of Tucson, Arizona. He is also survived by six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Jim’s brother, Will John “Happy” York and family also survive him.

He was preceded in death by his wife Gena, and their son, Jim; his brothers, Pat and Fred, and sisters Nana Lou and Betty.

No services are planned at this time, however, internment is planned for the spring.

Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville is in charge of the services.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the USO or local military service organizations.

Charles H. McCulley, 93

2008-12-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

Charles H. McCulley, 93, of Grangeville, passed to the Lord on Wednesday, December 24, 2008.

Charlie was born November 26, 1915, on the Doumecq Plains of Idaho, the second son of Homer and Sarah (Marshall) McCulley.

Charlie's first marriage blessed him with three sons, Charles, Milton and Michael. SaVilla (Burau) Krebs and Charlie were married in 1960, bringing a fourth son, James to the family. Charlie was always independent and made his living through self-employment. In his early years he ranched at Doumecq and Deer Creek and spent a brief time in Rathdrum operating a drive-in. From 1965 through his retirement in 1985 he owned and operated Charlie's Mobil Service at Grangeville.

World War II took Charlie to the Philippines where he served in the Army Tank Corps. Charlie was very proud of his service to his country as one of the eleven McCulley Brothers, all members of the military in the WWII-Korea era. Charlie had many interests. He enjoyed fishing, reading and watching sports on television. He was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Elks Lodge.

Charlie is survived by his loving wife of forty-eight years, SaVilla, at their Grangeville home; his four sons, Chuck (Susan) of Grand Junction CO, Mike (Betty Ann) of Portland OR, Milt of Indiana, Jim of Homer AK; brothers Wilbur (Marjorie) of Nezperce, Alfred (Louella) of Grangeville, George (Sandy) of Vallejo CA, Tom of Seattle, Jay (Mary) of Yuma AZ; 20 grand-children and 2 great-grandchildren.

Preceding Charlie are his sisters Dorothy, Helen, and Nyra Rankin, and brothers Marshall, Kimball, Fay, Emmett, and Homer.

A memorial service to honor Charlie's life will be held at Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville at 2:00 pm on Saturday, December 27, 2008.

Memorials can be made to the Grangeville Christian Church Building Fund or the charity of your choice.

On-line condolences can be shared at www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.

Agnes M. VonTersch, 98

2008-12-23T09:29:00.000-08:00

Agnes M. VonTersch, 98, of Cottonwood, passed away Sunday, December 21, 2008, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Cottonwood.

Agnes was born February 6, 1910, to Franz and Mary Siebencase Walser near Cottonwood. She attended St. Joseph school in Cottonwood until the family moved to New York. She moved back to the area in the West Lake/Icicle Flats area and attended the Icicle Flats school through the 8th grade. While living there, she helped care for her mother and took care of many of the farm chores such as milking cows, tending chickens, gardening, working in the orchards, as well as other assorted tasks.

In September 1952, she married Louis VonTersch in Cottonwood. After their marriage, they moved to Louis’ family farm one mile northeast of Cottonwood until retirement. After retirement, Agnes and Louis moved to Lewiston where they bought and rented out condominiums in the LC Valley until Louis died November 10, 1975. Agnes then purchased a home in Cottonwood where she resided until her death.

She loved playing cards with the Wednesday Club as well as with anyone who was up for the challenge. She also enjoyed playing bingo in her spare time.

She was a life-long member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cottonwood.

Agnes is survived by a sister, Anna Kolbeck of Cottonwood, as well as many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband; brothers Alphonse, Joe, Leo and John Walser; and sisters, Sr. Matilda Walser, OSB, and Josefa Geis.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 27, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cottonwood, with recitation of the rosary at 10:30, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00. Burial will follow at Cottonwood Catholic Cemetery. Viewing will be held from 10:00 to 10:30 prior to the rosary on Saturday at the church.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.

Marie E. Frei, 93

2008-12-18T08:53:00.000-08:00

Marie Elizabeth Kinzer Frei, 93, passed away peacefully Wednesday, December 17, 2008, surrounded by her family at the Grangeville Health & Rehab Center.

Marie was born on August 22, 1915 in Uniontown, Washington to Mike & Gertrude Wittman Kinzer. She attended school in Uniontown, and Ferdinand, Idaho. At the age of fifteen, Marie started her housekeeping job at Saint Joe’s Hospital.

On Nov. 7, 1933, she married John Romanus Frei (son of Clem & Philomena Frei) in Ferdinand. Marie and John first lived in Grangeville and numerous other places such as Waha; Newport, Oregon; Deer Park, Washington; and finally settled on a farm in Ferdinand in 1947 where they raised 6 children. In 1972 they moved to Lewiston and in 1977 John passed away.

Mother worked at the Orchards Nursing Home until she retired in 1991. After retirement, she sold her home in Lewiston, moved to Clarkston, Washington for a year, and then to Cottonwood. She lived there for about 3 years before entering the Grangeville Health & Rehab where she lived for 4 1/2 years.

Mother loved to bowl and was on a team with some of her grandchildren in Lewiston where she was the oldest person on the bowling league. She loved card games such as bridge & pinochle. She was a fabulous cook, making a great potato salad and was known by her grandchildren as the "Cookie Grandma", and looked forward to making dozens of cookies for Christmas. Her other nicknames were "Grandma Great" and "Grandma on the Wall".

She is survived by her six children, Joan Schaeffer (Boise), Mary Kay and Guy Jungert (Clarkston), Kenneth and Jackie Frei (Ferdinand), Ben Frei (Lewiston), Harvey Frei and Dawn Lamb (Cottonwood), and Jackie and Marvin Forsmann (Grangeville); two sisters, Jean Mason, and Esther Kuther and Cletus Kuther; half sister, Elma Greif; step-sister, Loreen Madden DeShiell; 24 grandchildren and 48 great-grandchildren. Her surviving in-laws are Albert Frei, Vincent and Caroline Frei, Hubert and Clara Frei, Ray and Carolyn Frei, Wilfred and Emelia Frei, Agatha Haener, Dorothy and Dick Hanson, Jack Stockton, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Marie is proceeded in death by her husband John and son Richard; son-in-law Ralph Schaeffer; grandson Ronald Schaeffer; brothers Donald and Ambrose Kinzer; sister Carmelita Heitman; half brothers and sisters Hilda Druffel, Irvin Greif, Alfred Greif, Henrietta Goeckner, and Benjamin Kinzer; step brothers and sisters Michael (Bud) Madden, Catherine Greif, and Genevieve Seubert; in-laws Lawrence and Hilda Frei, Alphonse and Caroline Frei, Mary and Victor Sprute, Elsie and Donald Kinzer, Kathryn Frei, Earl Haener, Philomena and Ed Hoene, and Clementina Stockton.

A rosary will be recited on Saturday, December 20, 2008, at 10:30 a.m. at the Assumption Church in Ferdinand, followed by Mass at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Ferdinand Cemetery. Viewing will be held on Friday, December 19, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville and again on Saturday, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Assumption Church in Ferdinand.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice.

Services are under the direction of the Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.

George Vrieling, 103

2008-12-16T12:17:00.000-08:00

George Vrieling, 103, of Grangeville, passed away Sunday, December 14, 2008, at his home in Grangeville.

George was born September 30, 1905 at Manhattan, Montana, a son of Lambert and Aussilina Hamming Vrieling. The family moved to Hollister, Idaho before moving to Grangeville where he received his education.

He married Tena Workman on November 1, 1927 at Grangeville. Together they farmed and ranched near Grangeville. Tena passed away in 1973. He married Beulah Riek in 1976 and following their marriage, he retired and moved into town.

He enjoyed gardening, raising chickens, and living the farming and ranching life. He was a member of the Grangeville Christian Reformed Church.

He is survived by his wife Beulah; his daughters, Helen Walker of Clarkston, Washington, Johanna and Orville Biggers and Bertha and Dick Arends, all of Grangeville; his sons, John and Jeannette Vrieling and George and Ruth Vrieling, all of Grangeville; seventeen grandchildren, and many great and great great grandchildren. George is also survived by his stepchildren, Bob Riek of Peck, Idaho, Marilyn Krieger of Cottonwood, and Ron Riek of Colorado.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Garit and Edward.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, December 17, 2008, at 1:00 p.m., at the Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville. Private family burial will follow at Prairie View Cemetery in Grangeville. Viewing will be held Tuesday, December 16, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., at the funeral home.

Family suggests memorials may be made to the Gideon’s or to the Memorial Fund of the Grangeville Christian Reformed Church, c/o Blackmer Funeral Home, 305 No Mill St., Grangeville, Idaho 83530.

Steven S. Clark, 70

2008-12-11T14:20:00.000-08:00

Steven Sherman Clark, 70, of Grangeville, passed away suddenly on December 4, 2008, at his home with his brother and long time care provider by his side.

Steven was born on January 1, 1938 in Long Beach, California to Charlene and Isaac Sherman Clark. He attended Garden Grove High School and was know as "that tall, dark and handsome young man".

Steve had several cars that he was very proud of.

He enlisted in the US Navy as an airman when he was 17 years old. He was an aviation supply man and served at El Centro, CA and Naples, Italy. In 1984 he moved to Grangeville to live with his brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Lynn Welborn. The past 10 years he was cared for by Lynn's brother, Dana Nordin, with whom he had a very special and unique relationship.

Steve was a quiet and simple man and never had a harsh word to anyone. He enjoyed walking downtown visiting "his" special places for coffee. He also enjoyed going to the Grangeville Senior Center for the past 24 years.

Steve is survived by his brother, Jim (Lynn) Welborn of Grangeville; Susan (Jack) McDonald of Fall City, Washington; Virginia (Jim) Dunn of Hudson, Ohio; Lauralee Kerwin of Walla Walla, WA, and Jeri Dawn Holmes of Lake Elsinore, CA. He is also survived by 13 nieces and nephews, and 16 grand nieces and nephews, and many aunts and uncles.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Charlene Welborn, and father, Issac Clark, and his grandparents, Walter & Mable Hacker and Issac & Anna Clark.

Steve was a big part of our lives and he will be missed by all those who loved and cared for him. A very special thank you to Dana for all you have done for Steve over the past 10 years. We are forever grateful.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, December 10, 2008, at the Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville. Private burial followed at Mount Idaho Cemetery.

Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville handled the arrangements.

Laneta M. Buchanan, 79

2008-12-08T16:33:00.000-08:00

Laneta M. Buchanan, 79, passed away December 6, 2008, at Syringa General Hospital in Grangeville. She was cremated and a memorial service and burial will be held at the Fairview Cemetery in Oral, South Dakota this coming summer.

She was born October 5, 1929, in Oral to George and Mary Evans. She was the sixth of eleven children.

She lived most of her life in Hot Springs, South Dakota and considered that her hometown. She had several different jobs throughout her life. Some of her favorite occupations were waitressing, telephone operator, and working with the elderly meal program.

She loved spending time with family, country music and dancing, and picnics.

Laneta is survived by her two sons, Jeff Gossel of Rapid City, SD, and Mike Mullett and his wife Tina of Denver, CO; one daughter, Michelle Wood of Grangeville; three sisters, Janet Porter of Edgemont, SD, Evelyn Murphy of Hot Springs, SD, and Mary Etta James of Salem, OR; nine grandchildren, Taylor and Spencer Gossel of Faith, SD, Mike Mullett, Jr., Kerry Hennelly and her husband John, Tosha Fuentes, and Tracy Borden, all of Cheyenne, WY, Tahnee Hill of Las Cruses, NM, Lanee and Shane Wood of Grangeville; and many, many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by husbands Butch Mullett and Dwaine Buchanan; her mother and father, George and Mary Evans; brothers, John and George Evans; sisters, Elizabeth Weiss, Georgie Evans, Cora Coldross, Pat Clark and Janiece Johnson.

Laneta will be remembered for her great smile and sense of humor. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Cremation arrangements were under the direction of Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.

William A. Carter, 79

2008-12-03T13:47:00.000-08:00

William A. Carter, 79, of Riggins, passed away November 29, 2008, at Syringa General Hospital in Grangeville.

William Andrew Carter was born in Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania on March 1, 1929 to John S. Carter and Elizabeth Hill Carter. He lived there until high school, then worked and graduated from high school in Bound Brook, New Jersey. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marines and served at the Naval Ordinance Depot in Pocatello, Idaho. While in Pocatello, he married Leah Dickerson. The marriage later ended in divorce. At the end of his Marine Corps enlistment, he returned to New Jersey to attend Rutgers University. When the Korean War began, he enlisted in the Air Force, then applied for and was accepted into Army Officer Candidate School. He completed OCS and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Army. After training at various military schools near the end of the Korean War, he was assigned to duty in Korea near the Demilitarized Zone as a Tank Platoon Leader.

When his military obligations ended, he returned to Pocatello and graduated with honors from what was then Idaho State College and began studies for a Masters degree at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. That endeavor was interrupted when his father died, which left him responsible for some of his younger siblings. For several years he worked for the Citizens Research Council in Detroit, which studies and makes recommendations for efficiency in governmental units for the State of Michigan. In 1967, he accepted the position of Director of Management Services for the State of Idaho and moved to Boise. In that position he was in charge of purchasing and coordinating the use of all computers and other electronic equipment for the State of Idaho.

In 1969 he returned to work at the Research Council in Michigan and was married to Mary Evans Vaughn in Detroit that same year. He worked there until 1977. During that time his tasks included working with the Budget Office of the Detroit Public School System.

In 1977 he and his wife purchased a small business near Riggins, Idaho and have lived there since then. He retired from full time work at their business in 1991 and devoted his time to community service. He was a Mason, a Shriner, and served for many years as Secretary of his Shrine Unit. He was an active member of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Grangeville, Idaho, and for several years, served as the Senior Warden of the Bishop’s Committee there. For many years he volunteered nearly full time job hours to the Salmon River Rural Fire Department performing administrative work as Chairman of the Board and keeping financial records. He also served on the Board of' Trustees for Joint School District 241. He enjoyed computer programming and wrote software which is still used by his business, the fire department and the church. He was a lifelong avid reader and student of history, politics, biographies and finance.
He is survived by his wife, Mary; four children and three stepchildren: Teresa Seng of Grandview, Idaho, Kathleen Bruni of Boise, Idaho, Patricia Travis of Simi Valley, California, John Carter of Nampa, Idaho, Cynthia (Cindy) Sangster of Grangeville, Idaho, James Vaughn of Riggins, Idaho, and Daniel Vaughn of Madison Georgia. In addition, he is survived by 21 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. He is also survived by three sisters and one brother, Electa Rundell of Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania, Elaine Bateman of Roy, Utah, Mary McDowall of LaVernia, Texas, and Stanley Carter of Belleville, Michigan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, and five sisters.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, December 13, 2008, at 10:00 a.m. MT, at the Riggins Cemetery followed by a memorial service at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Grangeville at 11:30 a.m. PST. Services are under the direction of the Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville.

Family suggests memorial contributions may be made to either the Calam Shriners Temple or to Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, c/o Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville.

Condolences to the family may be sent to www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.

Hunter Lee Weldon, 11 months

2008-12-02T12:56:00.000-08:00

Hunter Lee Weldon, age 10 months 27 days, entered Heaven on Wednesday, November 26th, 2008, in his mother’s arms and surrounded by family and friends at Seattle Children’s Hospital due to a long battle with mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome.

He was born December 29th, 2007 to Stephanie and Nathan Weldon of Grangeville.

Hunter loved cuddling with his mom and dad; Mickey Mouse Clubhouse; talking on the phone; laughing at funny noises; his dogs Nikko, Bailey, and Morgan; sleeping in his car seat; playing peek-a-boo; his camo blanket; his mom’s cell phone; warm baths, and playing with the tags on stuffed animals.

He is survived by his parents, Stephanie and Nathan Weldon of Grangeville; grandparents, Steve and Jan Crane of Grangeville, and Val and Cindy Weldon of Enola, Pennsylvania; great-grandparents, Nancy and John Law of Mill Creek, PA., Myrna and Jerry Crane, and Charlene Schumacher of Grangeville; his uncle, Josh Weldon of Enola, PA.; aunts, Lisa Alders of Newport, Washington, Jenn Weldon of Enola, PA, Leann Warren of Lewiston, and Kim Heitzman of Grangeville; great-uncles, Marty Crane, John Law, Steve Fogleman, Donnie Keeler, Dan Winkles, David Dee, and Brian Hewson, all of Grangeville, Don Dee of Garden Valley, Idaho, Paul Weldon of Duncannon, PA, Dave Weldon of Mt. Holly Springs, PA, Charlie Weldon of Philipsburg, PA; great-aunts, Carol Crane, Koleen Law, Misti Fogleman, Kristi Keeler, Sandy Winkles, Jamie Russell, and Maryann Hewson, all of Grangeville, Penny Law-Kelsey of Huntingdon, PA, Terry Law of Kamiah, Lori Hewson of St. Maries, Idaho, Marion Weldon of Mt. Holly Springs, PA, Fran Weldon of Philipsburg, PA, Candace Soderston of Redmond, WA, Sherry Schaffer of Duncannon, PA, and many cousins and great-cousins. He is also survived by Rebecca G., Naisha M., Tami H., Jessica K., Gloria, Lindsey S., and all the doctors and nurses who loved him at Seattle Children’s.

He was preceded in death by his uncle, Val Nathaniel Weldon; great-grandmothers Connie Dee and Julia Weldon; great-grandfathers Don Dee, Neil Schumacher and Val Edward Weldon; great great-uncle Gary Ticen, and his great great-grandmother, Charol Rodgers.

Hunter was our pride and joy, our handsome, handsome naked man and we miss and love him so very, very much!!!

Funeral services will be held Friday, December 5, 2008, at 11 a.m., at the Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville. Viewing will be held Thursday, December 4, 2008, from 4 to 8 p.m., at the funeral home. A celebration of Hunter’s life will follow Friday’s services at the Eagles Hall in Grangeville.

Family suggests memorial donations can be made in Hunter’s name to: Jackson’s Pay It Forward Foundation, 3527 8th St C, Lewiston, ID 83501 or to Children’s Hospital Foundation, Child Life Department Toy Fund , PO Box 50020/S-200, Seattle, WA 98145-5020.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.

Donald Ray "Gabby" Ruzicka, 74

2008-11-28T14:48:00.000-08:00

Donald (Gabby) Ruzicka, 74, of Grangeville, passed away Thursday, November 27, 2008, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Cottonwood.

He was born December 13, 1933 to Albert and Irene C. (Zehner) Ruzicka at Denver, Idaho. He attended school at Columbus Grade School and Grangeville High School. He joined the Navy in 1950 and spent four years serving his country.

Donald returned to Grangeville and married Donna J. Austin on June 4, 1955. They started their lives together in Grangeville, where he worked as a logger, mill worker, and in railroad maintenance. They moved to the Salmon River area to work on the Spencer Ranch, then to Garfield, Washington to work on the Dippel Ranch. They then moved to Spokane where he started long haul trucking.

In 1975, they returned to Grangeville where he worked for Seubert Excavators in Cottonwood, and then Baker Truck Service in Grangeville. He retired from Uhlenkott’s Well Drilling in 1995 to the family ranch on Cottonwood Creek. There, he enjoyed just tinkering around.

Donald was a life member to the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 51. Hunting, fishing, and telling stories were his passions and he loved to be out riding his 4-wheeler.

He is survived by his wife, Donna, at their Grangeville home; three children, Albert E. (Cindy) Ruzicka, Tonda S. (Jeff) VonBargen, and Lois R. (Darrel) Gehring; six grandchildren, Shelly (John) Bentley, Stacy Ruzicka, Shane (fiancee Bridget Enneking) Ruzicka, Jenifer VonBargen, Jason VonBargen, and Joey Gehring; and eight great grandchildren, Stephanie Bentley, Chase Bentley, Kira Bentley, Mikala Esquivel, Khyleigh Esquivel, Jerzee Ruzicka, Darcy Gehring, and Keirsten Gehring.

Viewing will be held on Sunday, November 30, 2008, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville. Funeral services will be held on Monday, December 1, at 11:00 a.m., at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Prairie View Cemetery. A potluck dinner will follow the services at the Grangeville Eagles Hall.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.

Doug Howe, 50

2008-11-24T12:30:00.000-08:00

Doug Howe, 50, of Elk City, passed away Saturday, November 22, 2008, in the woods above Grangeville on a logging job.

Doug was born May 30, 1958, in Tonasket, Washington to Fred and Norma Howe.

In May 1960, the family moved to Elk City. While growing up in Elk City, he was well known for selling the magazine, Grit. He enjoyed collecting coins, fishing, hunting and snowmobiling.

He graduated from Clearwater Valley High School in Kooskia in 1976. After high school, he enrolled at West Point Military Academy in New York.

After West Point, he enrolled in college at Idaho State University. After ISU, he married his high school sweetheart, Carolyn Hendren. After their marriage, both attended college at the University of Idaho.

After college, Doug went to work in the woods as a timber faller. In 1984, he and his father started their own company, H & H Logging. Doug continued this work up until his death.

Another enjoyment for Doug was traveling with Carolyn during spring break-up.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn, at their Elk City home; sons, Jay of Elk City, and Rocky and wife Andrea of Grangeville; parents, Fred and Norma Howe of Lewiston; and a brother, Craig and wife Laura of Tonasket, Washington.

Doug was preceded in death by a sister, Patty.

Memorial services will be held on Wednesday, November 26, 2008, at 11:00 a.m., at the Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville. A potluck dinner will follow at the Grangeville Senior Citizen’s Center located on the Grangeville truck route.

Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville is in charge of arrangements.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.

Ruth M. Westberg, 86

2008-11-17T15:10:00.000-08:00

Ruth M. Westberg, age 86, passed away Monday, November 17, 2008, at the Grangeville Health and Rehabilitation Center.

Ruth was born July 21, 1922, at Culdesac, Idaho to George and Louie Coffland.

She graduated from Culdesac High School in 1942. She moved to Camp 58 Logging Camp near Grangeville after high school to work in the kitchen at this logging camp. There, she met her future husband, Gus Westberg. They were married December 24, 1948, at John Day, Oregon. Gus died June 24, 1987.

Ruth was a homemaker and they had six children.

Surviving her are three daughters, Judy (Ron) Brackelsberg, and Lynne (Mike) Fredrickson of Grangeville, and Terri (Mike) Wisdom of Lewiston; three sons, Mark (Donna) Westberg of Sunnyvale, California, Wayne (Tammy) Westberg of Kennewick, Washington, and Brad Westberg of Nampa, Idaho; one brother, Robert (Nina) Coffland of Lewiston, and one sister, Betty Floch of Asotin, Washington. She is also survived by 11 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by two grandchildren and two sisters.

In Ruth’s later years, she enjoyed going to the Grangeville Senior Center for companionship, gossip, and food. She also enjoyed spending time with family.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, November 21, 2008, at 10:00 a.m., at the Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville. Inurnment will follow at Prairie View Cemetery.

The family suggests that memorials may be made in Ruth’s name to the Grangeville Senior Center.

Condolences to the family may be sent to www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.

Steve B. Webb, 36

2008-11-14T14:31:00.000-08:00

Steve Brian Webb, 36, of Grangeville, passed away Wednesday, November 12, 2008, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Cottonwood.

Steve was born July 25, 1972 in Grangeville. He graduated from Grangeville High School where he enjoyed playing football. He then attended LCSC and later graduated.

In addition to football, he enjoyed fishing and hunting.

Steve enjoyed all his nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his mother, Morty of Alaska; his father, Patrick of Grangeville; his grandmother, Florence Webb of Grangeville; his brothers, Brian and Fred; sisters, Miranda, Lisa, Debbie, Shanna, Shawndel, Melanie and Missy. He is also survived by a special aunt, Norma Moore.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Sam.

Graveside services will be held Monday, November 17, 2008, at 11:00 a.m., at Prairie View Cemetery in Grangeville.

Services are under the direction of Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville.

Ellen G. Winkes, 90

2008-11-06T13:31:00.000-08:00

Ellen Gwendolyn (McPherson) Winkes, 90, of Grangeville, passed away Tuesday, November 4, 2008, at Life Care Center in Lewiston.

Ellen was born March 29, 1918, in Lambert, Montana, a daughter of Wallace and Neva McChesney McPherson. She was the first of five children. She met Lester Winkes while working as a ship welder during WWII. They were married in 1946. They had six children. They moved to Grangeville, Idaho where they opened Winkes Brothers Hardware and later Magic Floors. She also owned Ellen’s Craft Store. After retirement, they lived in Arizona and traveled throughout the southwest. After Lester’s death in 1978, she and her daughter, Cathy, moved back to Grangeville.

She was a member of Camp Fire Girls, Toastmistress, Soroptimist, and a local bridge club. She was also a member of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Grangeville.

She is survived by her children, Patricia (Ken) Schmidt, John (Sharon) Winkes, Maureen Winkes, Regina (Patrick) Dunroven, and Teresa (Paul) Scott; a sister, Reta Onstott of Sheridan, Wyoming; 13 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, her daughter Cathy, two grandchildren, and a great grandchild died earlier.

A rosary will be held Saturday, November 8, 2008, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral mass at 11:30 a.m. at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Grangeville. Father Brad Neely will be the celebrant. Burial will follow at Prairie View Cemetery in Grangeville. A visitation will be held Friday, November 7, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., at the Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville.

Family suggests memorial contributions may be made to Saints Peter and Paul School.

Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville is in charge of arrangements.

Alda F. Dee, 87

2008-11-05T09:15:00.000-08:00

Alda F. Dee, 87, of Grangeville, a dear mother, grandmother, great grandmother, wife and friend, was welcomed to Heaven Sunday, November 2, 2008.

Alda was born on August 5, 1921 in Spokane, Washington, the daughter of Italian immigrants, Angelo and Eliza Pallovacini Lavagetto. She and her brother, Frank, grew up helping with the family florist business, Angelo’s for Flowers.

When she was 10 years old, Alda traveled with her mother and brother to Italy to visit family. One of her fondest memories of the visit was joining other family members and residents of Chiavari/Sestri, carrying picnic baskets and singing as they climbed a nearby hill each Sunday after Mass.

Alda attended grade school in Spokane and graduated from Lewis and Clark High School in 1939. She graduated from Spokane Junior College in 1941. She then enrolled in Washington State College, currently Washington State University, where she received her degree in English in 1943.

While attending WSC, Alda met and married Robert T. Coffman. He received his Veterinarian degree and served in the Army during WWII. In 1945, a farmer from Grangeville, Marion Weber, contacted Bob at WSU and encouraged Alda and Bob to move to Grangeville, where a vet was needed. Bob opened his first veterinary clinic and became known as ‘Doc” Coffman.

While raising their three sons, Rick, Don, and Chris, Alda was active in Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church. She was a substitute teacher at Grangeville High School, a member of AAUW, and a bridge club. She and Bob followed high school sports and were avid WSU Cougar Football Fans.

In 1969, Alda, Bob, and Chris moved to Corvallis, Oregon, where Bob was a meat inspector for the State of Oregon. While in Corvallis, the family and visiting family members enjoyed trips to the Oregon Coast. The coast became a favorite destination for Alda.

When Bob passed away in 1970, Alda and Chris returned home to Grangeville. From 1970-1977 she was the librarian at the Grangeville Centennial Library.

Alda and William J. Dee were married on October 15, 1977. During their 19 years of marriage, Alda and Bill enjoyed gardening, traveling, and preparing gourmet meals for family and friends. Alda’s motto was “Manja! Manja!” (Eat! Eat!). Many special Coffman-Dee memories were made during gatherings at Bill and Alda’s home in the foothills overlooking the Camas Prairie.

When Bill passed away in June of 1996, Alda moved back into Grangeville, where she continued to enjoy visits with her friends, children and grandchildren, cooking, solving the daily crossword puzzles, and reading and following the WSU Coug’s football games.

Alda concluded each evening with prayers, finding five reasons to be thankful for the day and praying for family and friends. When she told someone she would pray for them, she did.

Alda is survived by Rick and Marcie Coffman of Caldwell and their son, Mitch of Boise; Don and Patty Coffman of Kooskia and their daughter Kristi of Boise; Richard and Gloria Dee of Seattle; grandson, Reed Allen of Lewiston; great granddaughters, Emma and Atley, daughters of grandson Kevin and Linsey Coffman of Lakeview, Oregon; Bill and Ursula Dee and their children, Stephanie, Jonathon, and Jessica of Twin Falls; Stephanie and her husband’s children, Nikolas and Anthony Aloyo complete Alda’s list of great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister in law, Jane, and nephew, Jeff Lavagetto of Spokane.

Alda was preceded in death by an infant son, Stephen; son, Chris, and her brother, Frank.

A celebration of her life will begin Friday, November 7, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. with a recitation of the rosary at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Grangeville. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:30 a.m. with burial concluding the services at Prairie View Cemetery in Grangeville. Father Bradley Neely will be the Celebrant. Viewing will be held on Thursday, November 6, 2008, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., at the Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville.

Family suggests memorial contributions may be made to Sts. Peter and Paul School, the Grangeville Centennial Library, or to Animal Ark.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.

Billy F. Nanney, 59

2008-11-01T13:20:00.000-07:00

Billy F. Nanney, 59, of Grangeville, passed away suddenly on October 29, 2008, at his home in Grangeville.

Billy was born January 31, 1949 in Morton, Washington. He worked as a logger all his life and raised his three children in Morton. Billy moved to the Grangeville area in 2005 with his special companion, Susan Sargent. He loved fishing and rock hunting and figured he had found the perfect place for both. He started playing karaoke for friends and special occasions where he met many good people and he enjoyed every moment of singing with friends. He had a great singing voice which everybody enjoyed listening too. He will be missed so much by so many.

His is survived by his three children, Tina Nanney of Chandler, Arizona, Rick Nanney of Centralia, Washington, and Terri Beringer of Maple Valley, Washington; his grandchildren, Amy Rae Nanney Palumbo of Chandler, Arizona, and Jon “Willy” Vigre of Silver Creek, Washington; his mother, Irene Nanney of Morton, Washington; a sister, Shirley Collins of Onalaska, Washington; brothers, Leon (Sadie) Nanney of Silver Creek, Washington, and Howard “Nub” Nanney of Morton, Washington, and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his companion, Susan “Susie Q” Sargent of Grangeville.

He was preceded in death by his father, Luen “Hoot” Nanney; a brother, Larry Russell Nanney, and a brother in law, Frank Collins.

This is not good bye Billy, just a “see ya later”, Susie Q.

A celebration of his life will be held on November 22 in Morton.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville.

Cynthia Lynn Sherrer, 59

2008-10-29T13:08:00.000-07:00

Cynthia Lynn Sherrer, 59, of Elk City, passed away Sunday, October 26, 2008, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Cottonwood.

She was born on March 19, 1949 in Fort Worth, Texas.

Cynthia and her husband, Earl Sherrer, were married in Florida, where they both grew up. They later moved to Elk City, seeking the solitude and beauty of the mountains.

Cynthia was a respected and much-loved woman in her community and surrounding areas. She was involved in many community activities including, but not limited to: Elk City Area Alliance, Elk City Dust Devils, Elk City Computer Program, and provided tax services for many within the community. She was also instrumental in the success of access to the internet for Elk City. She built websites for Elk City and surrounding businesses. She tirelessly provided computer expertise to the community.

She touched all who knew her and left a positive mark on anyone’s life that crossed paths with hers. Cynthia enjoyed taking care of their vacation cabins, and meeting all of the people who came to visit with her and her husband in God’s country. She had a love for gardening and taking care of her rabbits and chickens. She also enjoyed mushroom hunting, fishing, and hunting for wild game.

Cynthia is survived by her husband of 40 years, Earl Sherrer; her daughter, Citrina and husband Lance Durst; sons, Chet Sherrer, Custis Sherrer and wife Christine, Cowboy Sherrer, and Colt Sherrer and wife Krystina; her parents, Gwen and Tex Ritter, and Glen and Joan Wilcox; her sisters, Erika Ritter, Dottie Armour, Kyle Holstrom, Kari-Jo Rohr, Kristi Wilson; brother, Kim Wilcox; her grandchildren, Jeffrey, Jonathon, Matthew, Wyatt, Dustin, Shanna, Harley, Mercede, Lance, Rebecca, Richie, Devin, Ryan, Rose, Kalub and Gabryel; as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by grandparents, Abbot Parramore and Hilda Parramore Wright, and a niece, January Aaronson Armour.

Graveside services were held on Wednesday, October 29, 2008, at the Sherrer residence near Elk City. Burial took place in the Sherrer Family Cemetery, also at the residence.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville.

Condolences to the family may be sent to www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.

Edward F. Fischer, 79

2008-10-21T15:54:00.001-07:00

Edward (Ed) Fredrick Fischer passed away on October 19, 2008, peacefully with his family by his side.

Ed was born on March 19, 1929 in Mission Hill, SD to Emil and Eliza Fischer.

As a young boy, the family moved to Idaho. Ed worked as a freight truck driver most of his life, retiring in 1991 with Star Motor Freight.

Ed married Leota Freeman on July 16, 1950. Together they have 4 children: Terry, Rick, Deanna and Doug.

Ed’s passion in life was fishing. He loved to take his grandchildren down on the river and teach them the art of fishing. He was known as a family man with a great sense of humor. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were always foremost in his life. The grandchildren always enjoyed eating ice cream with grandpa every night after dinner.

Ed is survived by his wife at the family home, 2 sons, Terry (Sandy) Fischer of Nampa, ID; Doug (Colleen) Fischer of Florence, MT, a daughter Deanna (Floyd) Hall of Grangeville and a daughter-in-law Gretta Fischer of Grangeville. He is also survived by 2 brothers, Wilbert Fischer of Oceanside, CA and Walter “Skip” (Rosemary) Fischer of Westminster, CO and 3 sisters Dorothy Meyer and Addie Derrick of Grangeville, and Lorene Smith of Sandpoint, ID. Ed is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son Rick Fischer, 4 brothers and 1 sister.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 23, 2008, at 11:00 a.m., at Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville. Pastor Harold Gott of the Grangeville Christian Church will officiate. Burial will follow at Prairie View Cemetery in Grangeville. Viewing will be held Wednesday, October 22, from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., at the Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville.

Family suggests memorial donations can be made to the Grangeville Border Days or the Christian Church in Grangeville.

Send condolences to the family at www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.

Rylan Dwane Crow, 20 days

2008-10-21T15:53:00.001-07:00

Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."

Rylan Dwane Crow, 20 day old son of Chad Crow and Heather Kunkel of Reubens passed away Saturday, October 18, 2008 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Cottonwood.

Rylan was born September 28, 2008 at Lewiston.

We could hardly wait for you and on that special day you came into our world was truly the best day ever! You made our lives perfect. You are our pride and joy and loved by all your family.

Rylan is survived by his parents, Chad Crow and Heather Kunkel of Reubens, grandparents; Toni and Kent Roberts of Grangeville, Mike and Wendy Kunkel of White Bird, Pat and Mike Smyth of Lewiston and David and Leigh Crow of Reubens, uncles; Kelsey Kunkel of Coeur d’Alene, Taylor Kunkel of Grangeville, Freddy Kunkel of White Bird, Kevin Roberts of Coeur d’ Alene, Jason Roberts of Grangeville and Scott (Dana) Crow of Reubens, aunts; Jamie (Cole) Blevins of Lewiston, Colleen (Jake) Owens of Spokane, great grandparents; Doris Baker of Lewiston, Evelyn Crow of Lewiston, Shirley Kunkel of St. Paul, MN, Warren Braucher of Craigmont, Fred and Lila Noland of Clarkston, Sandy Roberts of Grangeville and Marvin and Donna Roberts of Post Falls. He was loved very much by his “special” adopted aunts, Shanna Legg, Jessie Blankenship, Meranda Hazelbaker, Marla Ramirez, and Renee Nuxoll. He is also survived by many cousins, great aunts, great uncles and adoring friends.

He was preceded in death by his great grandfathers, Clyde Baker, Dwane Crow, Herbert Kunkel and great grandmother Louise Braucher.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, October 22, 2008, at 11:00 a.m., at Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville. Burial will follow at Mount Idaho Cemetery in Grangeville.

Send condolences to the family at www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.

Patricia Ann Vessey, 75

2008-10-13T17:36:00.000-07:00

On October 11, 2008, our beloved wife, mother, and sister’s life on this earth came to an end.

She was born February 19, 1933 in Grangeville to Perle and Dorothy Henderson Skinner.

Patricia moved from place to place in her younger years. At an early age, she had lived at the Chamberlain Basin on the Salmon River; near the Badly place, also located on the Salmon River for quite sometime; and also lived in Dixie for approximately two years where she went to a one roomed school house that still stands to this day. She also lived with her grandparents, Carl and Margaret Henderson on the South Fork of the Clearwater River. She eventually settled in Stites where she started the 5th grade at the old school house in Stites and finished her schooling there.

She enjoyed staying home and was very independent and minded her own business. She took care of her family and always told them the better ways of handling things. She loved hummingbirds and everyday she would sit in her back yard and watch them fly around her, allowing her to relax and get away from all of the stressful things. Patricia also loved horses. She was a horse enthusiast and owned one since she was two years old. Another love was being involved in the Grangeville Border Days where in 1949, she was named Border Days Princess.

Patricia married her high school sweetheart, Freddie R. Vessey, on August 15, 1951, and they had three children. They were blessed with their first son, Russell, and not long after, Robin, and soon after, Reuben. Freddie and Patricia were married for 57 years. For two years of their marriage, her husband was drafted into the Korean War with occupational services over in Germany. During that time, Patricia resided with Freddie’s parents, Fred and Nelly Vessey on Battle Ridge Road at the old Vessey Ranch. It was definitely a struggle for her, but she got through it.

Patricia is survived by her three sons, Russell of Battle Ridge (Stites area), Robin of Woodland (Kamiah area), and Reuben of Stites; husband, Freddie of Stites; grandchildren, Danielle and Mary Ann of Kamiah, Alan of Battle Ridge, Nicholas of Winchester, and Marie Edlemon of Spokane; one sister, Carly Key of Grangeville; a first cousin, Barbra Brotnov of Clearwater, and numerous other relatives and loved ones.

May her soul rest in peace. We love you grandma.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2008, at 11:00 a.m., at Fairview Cemetery near Grangeville.

Arrangements are under the direction of Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.

Judy R. Merrill, 60

2008-10-07T15:46:00.000-07:00

Judy R. Merrill, 60, of Grangeville, passed away Saturday, October 4, 2008, at Syringa General Hospital in Grangeville after a 2 1/2 year hard fought battle with cancer.

Judy was born July 7, 1948 at Spokane, Washington. She lived in Harpster, Southern Idaho, Winchester, and Cottonwood before moving to her own apartment in Grangeville.

Her jobs included babysitting, working at the Hilltop Café, Grangeville Senior Center and Tri-Co before her health forced her to stop working.

She enjoyed needle work, circle puzzles, watching movies and playing the card game Skip Bo with anyone that would play, and shopping until she dropped. She was active in Special Olympics and People First. She also attended Opportunities Unlimited in Grangeville where she met many friends. She also enjoyed her dog, Patches, and cat, Goldie, who are with her in Heaven.

She is survived by her mom, Laverne Hayes of Newport, WA; brother, Dwayne and his wife Vanessa of Rathdrum, Idaho; sister, Linda and her husband Robert of Grangeville; niece, Lorraine Gallegos; great nieces, Linda, Toni, Ashley, and great nephews, Todd, Timmy and Kevin of Kamiah; aunts, uncles, cousins, and many other friends and her special friends, Jerry Platts, and Mama Emma and Daddy Jack Hoffman and family from Cottonwood.

Graveside services will be held Thursday, October 9, 2008, at 1:00 p.m., at Prairie View Cemetery with Pastor Harold Gott of the Grangeville Christian Church officiating. Services are under the direction of the Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.

Dorothy Stephens, 82

2008-10-07T10:49:00.000-07:00

Dorothy L. Stephens, 82, of Elk City, passed away Saturday, October 4, 2008, at Syringa General Hospital in Grangeville.

Dorothy was born June 19, 1926 at Orting, Washington, a daughter of Ross and Florence Welch. She grew up and graduated from Orting High School in 1944. She met and married Roy E. Stephens that same year. They made their first home at Mountain Home, Idaho where their first son, Robert, was born in 1945. Around 1950, the small family moved to the Cidade Valley in California to work in the lumber industry. They had four more sons, Charles, Mike, Daniel, and Walter and a daughter, Lucinda.

In the Early 1960’s, the now larger family moved back to Washington State on the coast where they owned and operated a wrecking yard. Over the next thirty years they lived throughout the Northwest, mainly Yakima, Washington and Elk City, Idaho.

Dorothy was a hard worker either as a waitress or along side her husband in various self-employed ventures. They retired to Elk City, Idaho in 1993 to be closer to their grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She loved Idaho’s great outdoors and wildlife and always called it home. She remained in Elk City the last 10 years after Roy’s death in 1998. She loved and cherished her grandchildren and great grandchildren as they did her. She was always the happiest with them. We will miss her, but we know in our hearts she is with her boys again and that is a great comfort.

She is survived by her two sons, Robert Stephens of Wallace, Idaho and Daniel and Debby Stephens of Moscow, Idaho; her daughter, Lucinda Byers of Ilwaco, WA; a sister, Leola and Blaine Johnson of Puyallup, WA; a brother, Ross (Cougar) Welch, Jr. of Orting, WA; 8 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Roy; three sons, Charles, Mike and Walter Stephens; her parents; a sister, Betty Welch, and a granddaughter.

Graveside services for Dorothy have been postponed until further notice from Blackmer Funeral Home.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.

Jeffrey P. Wilde, 44

2008-10-06T10:48:00.000-07:00

On Oct. 3, 2008, Jeff Wilde went home to live with his Lord & Savior, after his battle with cancer.

Jeff was born in McCall, Idaho January 12, 1964. He spent his childhood there and graduated in 1982. That year he was Idaho State wrestling Champ in the lightweight division.

Jeff was a logger for a good part of his life. He has spent the last three years of his life working at Grangeville Builders Supply where he adored his fellow co-workers.

Jeff loved fishing, hunting, NASCAR, and the Dallas Cowboys. He enjoyed attending football games, wrestling events, gardening, looking for mushrooms, and coaching his children, nephews and friends. He was an animal lover and always had some kind of critter around. He volunteered his time with 4-H and was an accomplished carpenter with custom finish work and he did woodworking. Jeff loved family gatherings and to cook & go camping.

In 1997, he met Yvette Gonzales, the love of his life. They were married December 23, 2003.

Jeff leaves behind his wife, Yvette; children, Tyrell & Jacey Langston, Tara Wilde, Jeffery Bateman, Brittany & Kenneth Wilde and Daniella Wilde; step-father & mother, Allen & Margie Jones; grandparents, Don & Wanda Crisp; siblings, Cindy & Ronnie, Wade & Heather and Darcie Talbott; nephews, Marshall, Ryan, Robert, Zeth, Zach and Brandon; nieces, Leann, Misty, Treeya & Hova and in-laws, Annabelle & Lorenzo Gonzales.

Jeff is preceded in death by his father, Robert Wilde and Grandpa Wilde.

The Jeff Wilde fund will continue to be open at Wells Fargo in Cottonwood to assist the family with medical cost.

Memorial services were held Tuesday, October 7, 2008, at the Prairie Middle School in Cottonwood.

Services are under the direction of the Blackmer Funeral Home in Grangeville.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.blackmerfuneralhome.com.