Edwin Ritchie, age 85, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on November 2, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
David Bruce Henderson, age 76, a resident of Tygh Valley, OR, passed away at home on November 2, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Bonnie M Palmer, age 69, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Columbia Basin Care Facility on October 18, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Deon Milban Deswert, age 98, a resident of Dufur, OR, passed away at Flagstone Retirement & Assisted Living on October 31, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Joyce Powell Morin lived a life devoted to faith, family, community, and service to others. Whether she was comforting a patient, supporting a colleague, spending time with family, or embracing a friend, Joyce had a special way of making people feel loved and valued. Caring for others wasn't simply what she did. It was who she was.
Born on October 24, 1954, in The Dalles, Oregon, to Edward and Mildred (Zeller) Powell, Joyce grew up in the community she would call home for much of her life. She attended St. Mary's Academy and graduated from The Dalles High School in 1972. She continued her education at Marylhurst University before transferring to the University of Portland, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1976. She later earned her master's degree from Oregon Health & Science University and received a certificate in Clinical Pastoral Education from Tri-Cities Chaplaincy.
Joyce devoted more than 43 years to healthcare, a profession she truly loved. Her journey at Mid-Columbia Medical Center began as a nursing aide while she was still in college. Through hard work, determination, and a genuine passion for caring for others, she rose through the ranks, becoming the youngest director of nursing in the hospital's history at just 28 years old. She went on to serve in several leadership roles, including vice president of nursing, chief cultural officer, director of volunteer services, and chaplain. Throughout her career, Joyce helped shape not only how patients were cared for, but also the culture of compassion and service within the hospital. She was a respected leader, a mentor, and someone who never forgot that healthcare was, first and foremost, about people.
Her Catholic faith was an important part of her life and shaped her belief in service above self. Joyce understood that healing involved more than medicine. She believed in caring for the whole person, recognizing the importance of dignity, compassion, and spiritual well-being. Her passion for spiritual care and love of labyrinths led her to play an instrumental role in bringing a labyrinth to Mid-Columbia Medical Center, creating a peaceful place for reflection, prayer, and healing. It was one of the many ways she gave back to the community she loved.
While Joyce found great purpose in her work, her family was at the heart of her life. She and her husband, Tony Morin, celebrated their 48th wedding anniversary on April 1, 2026. Together, they raised three children, Jacqueline "Jackie," Jaymie, and Joshua, and built a life filled with love and shared memories. Joyce treasured her role as a wife and mother and later embraced the joy of being a grandmother to five grandchildren. Her family was a source of tremendous pride and happiness, and the time they shared meant the world to her.
Joyce had a special love for butterflies and sunsets, finding joy in the simple beauty of the world around her. Following her Alzheimer's diagnosis, she had butterflies tattooed on her arm as a reminder that even in life's darkest moments, there was still beauty to be found. It was a small but deeply personal expression of her spirit, her hope, and her determination to hold on to the things that brought her joy.
Joyce once said that she measured a day by the number of hugs she received. It was a simple sentiment that spoke volumes about the woman she was. She understood that life's greatest gifts weren't things, but people. A warm embrace, a kind word, a moment spent together. These were the things that mattered most to her.
Joyce is survived by her loving husband, Tony Morin; her children, Jackie Morin, Jaymie Flores and her husband, Jose, and Joshua Morin and his wife, Jacqueline; and her five beloved grandchildren, Hector, Sebastian, Lilly, Holly, and Andre. She is also survived by her six siblings, Judy, Janet, Jeri, Joe, Jean, and Jeff, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Mildred Powell, and her brothers, John "Jack" Powell and James "Jim" Powell.
Joyce leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and service reflected in the countless lives she touched. She will be remembered for the patients she comforted, the friendships she nurtured, the community she served, and the family she loved so dearly. Above all, she will be remembered for her warmth, her generous spirit, and the way she made people feel that they mattered.
Perhaps the best way to honor Joyce is to remember what mattered most to her: to love generously, embrace one another, and never underestimate the importance of a hug.
Funeral Services
A public viewing and visitation will be held at Spencer, Libby & Powell Funeral Home in The Dalles, Oregon, on Monday, November 9, 2026, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m., followed by the Rosary at 6:00 p.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Peter's Catholic Church in The Dalles on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow in the parish hall, providing an opportunity for family and friends to gather, share memories, and celebrate Joyce's life.
Jerome “Jerry” James Betts, age 87, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on October 19, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
James Edward Heitkemper, age 84, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on October 24, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Robin Lynne Wagenblast was born in The Dalles, Oregon on July 26th, 1950, to Robert “Bob” Harold Wagenblast and Shirley Louise Wagenblast (née Martin). Robin was the second of two children to the couple, as she had an older brother Phillip. She had many fond memories of her childhood digging for clams on the Washington coast, traveling with her family while her father sold heating oil, and spending time at her grandmother’s home. Yet none were more precious to her than the summer of 1955 when her family visited Disneyland in its opening summer. Her love for Disneyland and Disney productions was later passed on to her three daughters, as they watched new releases in the cinema and had multiple birthday cakes based on Disney characters. Robin attended school in The Dalles, ultimately graduating from The Dalles High School. She was passionate about theatre, and participated in multiple productions while attending high school.
After graduation, she attended the University of Oregon in Eugene. She majored in Education and minored in Theatre, pursuing her artistic passion but with a keen eye towards the future. At U of O she met Joan Dube, who would become her lifelong friend. While attending university, she worked multiple jobs to pay for her education and was able to graduate early as a result of her fastidious dedication to her goals. After graduation, she completed her student teaching in Dufur, Oregon, accepting a position at the elementary school after completing her training. Robin was passionate about education, striving to find fun and creative ways to teach her students about multiple subjects. Robin cared deeply about her students and their families, a trait that permeated all aspects of her life. She also enjoyed traveling to expand her mind and worldview, and took a memorable trip to Europe, visiting several places including Hungary and Yugoslavia.
After teaching at Dufur for several years, Robin had the opportunity to move abroad, as Australia was seeking international teachers. She moved to South Australia, accepting a job in the suburb of Para Hills in Adelaide. While at this position she chose to live on the coast, as she had always wanted to live at the beach. Robin enjoyed working with the families of her students and the added challenge of cultural and linguistic barriers that were sometimes present. Always seeking understanding, she took great care to learn about the families to help find the best approach to teaching individual students. While at this position, she became friends with a fellow teacher, Lee, who would eventually lead her to a man who would change the rest of her life.
While cooking an extensive meal for Lee & the dinner party guests one evening in 1980, Robin met Carl Edward Smith, a man who she later described as her soulmate. Though Carl lived in Smithton, Tasmania, he and Robin maintained a long distance relationship until they could finally be wed on January 9, 1982. The couple wed at St. Bede’s Anglican Church in Semaphore, South Australia; they were married by Reverend Robert Niehus. Since the wedding was held at the height of the Australian summer, Robin’s bouquet was made of pink and apricot carnations to withstand the 40 degree celcius heat. The flowers matched the ethereal dresses of the maid of honor, bridesmaids, and flower girls, and complemented Robin’s beautiful gown. The wedding was attended by several of Robin’s family members from the U.S., including her parents, brother Phil, and maternal grandmother Isabel. Much of Carl’s family were also in attendance, including his son Brett, mother Phoebe, and several siblings, nieces, and nephews. Carl & Robin honeymooned in Aotearoa/New Zealand, enjoying stunning locations such as Dunedin and Rotorua.
After the honeymoon, Robin & Carl settled down in Smithton, Tasmania. Soon after Robin became pregnant with their first child, Christina Lynne, who was born on April 13th 1983. About two years later, they had their second daughter, Melinda Susan, born on July 24th 1985. Their third daughter, Tameka Ann, was born on March 8th, 1988. Their family was now complete, with four children: Brett, Christina, Melinda, and Tameka. The Smith family lived on Havelock Street in Smithton, in a quirky historical house that Robin adored. Robin made every holiday and event special, cooking feasts, decorating, and inviting loved ones into her home to celebrate together. While living here, Robin raised her children with lots of affection and a focus on their education. Her daughters were encouraged to read, create, and learn about their world through travel. Robin & Carl took the girls on many trips throughout their time in Australia, visiting big cities and small communities alike. The focus on combining joy and education as they traveled was persistent, as Robin was always an educator at heart. The girls participated in a variety of extracurriculars, including dance, theatre, and sports; no matter the activity, Robin was always there to support her children and encourage them to succeed. The girls grew up in the Havelock Street house until the family decided to relocate to The Dalles, Oregon to be closer to Robin’s parents.
In October of 2000, Robin and her family packed up their lives and made the long trip from rural Tasmania to the United States. In order to obtain her substitute teaching license, she started taking classes at Columbia Gorge Community College. She started art classes with local artist Jeff Stewart, and fell in love with oil painting (specifically landscapes). Robin had always been a skilled cook and baker, but her talent for oil painting was a surprise to her. Robin also attended St Paul’s Episcopal Church in The Dalles, where she was a member of the choir and a steadfast attendee. Robin valued her church community and enjoyed her time with them immensely. While living in The Dalles, Robin also learned the family business, and eventually took over The Dalles Marble & Granite from her mother when Shirley retired. Robin was also the primary caregiver for Carl and both of her parents, demonstrating her love and dedication to her family under all circumstances. Robin lived in The Dalles the rest of her life, creating art, sharing her love of food, and showing kindness and compassion to her loved ones and strangers.
Robin is preceded in death by her parents and her husband Carl. She is survived by her son Brett and his wife Merle in Casino, New South Wales; her daughter Christina and her husband Rick in Houston, Texas; her daughter Melinda in Bend, Oregon; and her daughter Tameka, her husband Morgan, and their son Luke in Portland, Oregon. She is also survived by her brother Phil and his wife Nancy in Lithia, Florida, in addition to many cousins, nieces, nephews, and other loved ones across the United States and Australia.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Rowena Wildlife (with a note “for the cats”), or contributing time, money, or food to your local food bank.
Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Robin Smith on Thursday, October 29, 2026.
Viewing
9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home
1100 Kelly Avenue
The Dalles, OR
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
1805 Minnesota Street
The Dalles, OR
Graveside Service
3:30 p.m.
IOOF Oddfellows Cemetery
Cherry Heights Road
The Dalles, OR
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.
Family and friends are welcome to join in honoring Robin’s life and memory.
Shawn Rene Martin, age 65, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on October 20, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
In Loving Memory of Shelly Denice Keele
September 3, 1968 – October 24, 2026
Shelly Denice Keele was born on September 3, 1968, to Earl Easton and Sylvia Wynn. She was a mother to Amanda Middleton, Allyson Keele, and Alexandra Sandoval, and a grandmother to five beautiful granddaughters.
Life wasn’t always easy for Shelly, and she faced many struggles, but she was so much more than those struggles. She was a beautiful woman who kept trying, and she loved her family deeply.
Shelly was preceded in death by her daughter, Amanda Middleton; her mother, Sylvia Wynn; and her husband, Brad Keele.
She is survived by her father, Earl Easton, and his wife, Diana Easton; her brother, Tracey Easton, and his wife, Jennifer Easton; her daughters, Allyson Keele and Alexandra Sandoval; her son-in-law, Kyler Sandoval; and her five granddaughters, Ariya Edwards, Adalynn Edwards, Hendryx Sandoval, Lennon Sandoval, and Ozzy Sandoval.
She is also survived by her nieces and nephews and their families: Kayla and Jaymes, and their children, Andy and Halle; Cody and Natalie; Bradley and Kenna, and their son, Jaxon; and Ryder.
We find comfort in imagining Shelly reunited with Amanda, finally at peace. She will always be loved and never forgotten. ❤️
Douglas Charles Hunter, age 78, a resident of Maupin, OR, passed away at home on October 23, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Christopher Edward Arp, age 63, a resident of Grass Valley, OR, passed away at home on October 15, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Jerry Wilbur Dorzab, age 84, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge on October 22, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Jean Marie Neuberger, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on October 16, 2026, at Callaway Gardens in Kennewick, Washington. She was born on January 17, 1938, in Hazen, North Dakota, to David and Emma Pischel.
Jean graduated from Hazen High School in 1957, and that same year, on July 26, she married the love of her life, Allen Neuberger. Together, they shared 40 years of marriage, building a life filled with family, friendship, and many cherished memories. Their family grew with the arrival of their two sons, Carlyle in 1958 and Kevin in 1961. In 1960, the family moved from North Dakota to The Dalles, Oregon, where they made their home and built their life together.
Jean worked at J.C. Penney, Downey Furniture, and Temple Distributing throughout her career. She was also an active member of Faith Lutheran Church and Gateway Presbyterian Church, where she found community and fellowship.
Jean found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved playing pinochle, dancing to polka music, and traveling to new places. Above all, she treasured the time she spent with Allen. Whether enjoying a favorite pastime or simply being together, those moments were an important part of her life. Her love for her family and the memories they shared will continue to be treasured by those who knew and loved her.
Jean is survived by her son, Kevin, of Kennewick, Washington; her granddaughter, Carly (Travis), of Portland, Oregon; her grandson, Will (Megan), of Dufur, Oregon; and five great-grandchildren, who carry forward her family's legacy.
She was preceded in death by her parents, David and Emma; her beloved husband, Allen; her sister, Ruth; and her son, Carlyle.
Jean's life was one of family, lasting love, and the everyday joys that make a life meaningful. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A graveside service will be held on October 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Odd Fellow Cemetery on Three Mile Road in The Dalles, Oregon.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.
Spencer, Libby & Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.
January 15, 1974 – October 15, 2026
Fa'atamali'i "Li'i / Lia" Heka Davis passed on to peaceful rest after a life defined by extraordinary devotion to her family, a deeply artistic soul, and a boundless generosity that touched everyone who knew her.
Born in American Samoa, Lia moved with her parents to the United States and was raised alongside five of her siblings. Her childhood was spent in San Francisco, California, before her family relocated to The Dalles, Oregon, during her later adolescent years. It was there that she graduated from The Dalles High School (TDHS) before going on to attend Walla Walla University.
Later, after returning home to The Dalles, Lia met the love of her life, Jeffrey Davis. Their journey together took them to Arizona, where Lia proudly embraced the role of bonus mother to Jeffrey's daughter, Paiton Davis Tunstall. Lia poured many years of love and devotion into raising Paiton, caring for and loving her deeply as her own. In 1999, Lia and Jeff were married and soon welcomed their only son, Ryan. They later expanded their family circle as bonus parents to her niece and namesake, Malii Kaelah.
Lia absolutely adored being a mother. Blessed with a naturally nurturing spirit, she extended her maternal warmth to her many nieces and nephews over the years, constantly offering encouragement and love, even from a distance. While residing in Arizona, she dedicated many years to public service, working for the Arizona Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Following the heartbreaking passing of her beloved husband, Jeffrey, she chose to step down from her career and focused on her children and extended family at home.
An old soul with an extraordinarily generous heart, Lia strived to uplift everyone around her. Her deep devotion to her parents was beautifully expressed when she generously had a home built for them in their native homeland overseas. Lia took immense pride in her Samoan culture, its rich history, music, and exotic cuisine, and loved sharing her heritage with others at every opportunity.
Lia was a remarkably talented artist from a young age. As a young student, she won a drawing contest to design a new school mascot. Throughout her life, she channeled this passion into drawing, painting, and crafting—most notably through traditional lei making, which she lovingly created to bless family and friends during their graduation milestones.
An open and compassionate host, Lia welcomed loved ones and friends into her home during the holidays, sharing love, laughter, traditional meals, and homemade baked goods. When relaxing, she could often be found painting, crafting, immersed in a good book, enjoying a period-piece drama, listening and singing to her favorite music, studying her family's genealogy, or rooting on her favorite football team, the San Francisco 49ers.
At her core, Lia was a spiritual individual, drawing even nearer to her Heavenly Father before her final rest. She aimed to share her faith through loving others. She held a lifelong special affection for her childhood Samoan Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) church family.
As she rests in the arms of her Heavenly Father, her absence will eternally leave a void in our hearts. Our beloved Fa'atamali'i will be forever remembered for her creative soul, beautiful smile, quick-witted humor, and the boundless generosity she extended to all who were privileged to know her.
She is survived by her son, Jeffrey Ryan; her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Heka; her siblings, Miliama, Siniua, Sinae, and Sepela; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family whom she loved dearly.
Lia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jeffrey; her brother, Sam; her sister, Litia; and her grandmother, Valelia.
Service Information
Memorial Service: Monday, November 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM
Location: Spencer, Libby & Powell Funeral Home, 1100 Kelly Ave, The Dalles, Oregon
Nikki Jo Amoss, age 79, a resident of White Salmon, WA, passed away at home on October 15, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Lenora Maude Parke, age 88, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at the Oregon Veterans Home on October 14, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Winifred Mary Schecter passed away on October 12, 2026, at the age of 80. Born Winifred Isseks on May 27, 1946, in Portland, Oregon, Winifred was an author, wife, mother, proud grandmother, world traveler, and teacher who lived in Friend, Oregon. Winnie, as she was called by all who knew her, passed away peacefully at home after a battle with Glioblastoma.
In 1970 Winnie and her husband Bob Schecter left Portland for Friend, Oregon, a rural area in the foothills of the Eastside Cascade Mountains, where in Winnie’s words they, “planted trees, built houses, and turned 36 acres of scrub pine into a home”. Bob and Winnie formed a group of tree-planters that planted over a million trees in Wasco and Hood River County forests. They built a small cabin that after several additions became Winnie’s dream home. They raised their two sons and spent most of the next fifty-seven years in Friend. Winnie was the secretary/treasurer of the Friend Community Club that maintains the Friend School House and Friend Cemetery for over twenty years.
Winnie had over a dozen books published under her pen-name Winifred Morris. Her writing career began in 1985 with the young adult novel With Magical Horses to Ride followed by The Jell-O Syndrome and Dancer in the Mirror. She went on to write numerous award-winning children’s books including David and the Ice Elf, Just Listen and What if the Shark Wears Tennis Shoes, and later moved to romantic comic thrillers like The Sometime Burglar and Bombed. Winnie never stopped writing. Her first science-fiction story Narcopia was published in September 2026 by Amazing Stories Magazine.
Winnie graduated from Portland State University with a Master of Arts in English in 1970. She taught Math and English at Jefferson and Lincoln High Schools in Portland. Later, in the 1990s, she taught English and Creative Writing at Portland State University, Portland Community College, and Mount Hood Community College.
Winnie’s travels took her to India, China, Japan, Poland, Italy, Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, and across the United States and Canada. She saw a good portion of the American West from the back of a motorcycle on the numerous road trips she took with Bob. She liked to ride fast on curvy roads.
Winnie was an avid skier who skied Mt. Hood until she was seventy-nine years old. She loved cats, walking in the woods, riding her mountain bike, reading on the porch, and watching the turkeys and deer gather at the pond.
She is survived by her husband of fifty-nine years, Bob Schecter, two sons, Jess and Steve Schecter, grandchildren Colin and Evelyn Schecter, daughters-in-law Varina and Amanda Schecter, and brother Nathan Isseks.
Winnie brought her own unique light to this world, inspiring many through her writing, adventures, and passion for learning. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
A memorial service for Winifred Schecter will be held at The Friend School House on Saturday November 7 th at 2pm. Friend School House, 80060 Friend Rd, Dufur, OR 97021.
Pearl Lucille Munsen, age 98, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on October 11, 2026. A Funeral Service will be held on October 24, 2026, 11:00 AM at Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home, 1100 Kelly Ave., The Dalles, OR 97058, the Graveside Service will follow at Odd Fellows Cemetery on Cherry Heights Road. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
David Alexander Avila Graves of The Dalles, Alex to his friends, passed away October 12, 2026, at OHSU Hospital in Portland.
Alex was born in The Dalles December 5, 1995, to Diana Mary Graves and Raul Avila. He and his siblings attended St. Mary’s Academy in The Dalles in their early school years. Alex completed his GED and some college level classes at the local community college. As a youngster he enjoyed cub scouts, soccer, and basketball. He really enjoyed longboarding and playing Xbox as well as hanging out with some of his good friends.
Alex enjoyed cooking as a kid and gardening. He imagined himself becoming a world class chef. As it turned out he did become a culinary expert with a BBQ grill! Alex also was an outstanding fisherman and absolutely loved fishing.
He had many jobs throughout his life but ultimately enjoyed his time at the Sinclair gas station where he worked his way to and became the manager for several years. As an adult he enjoyed spending time with his children as well as fishing and barbecuing often. He loved taking his kids on weekend outings with a favorite destination being the Oregon Coast.
His humor was an acquired taste; he was always cracking jokes and in a good mood. His positive attitude always shined through no matter what the circumstances. Even in his hardest times of life, he was always the one cheering other people up.
He is survived by his estranged spouse, his children Vanessa and David Jr, Father, Raul Avila; Grandfather, Ron Graves; brothers, Aaron Graves and Adrian Graves; Aunt, Rebecca Tobias; Uncle, Mike Graves, many great aunts and uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews and many friends who were truly like family. Alex was predeceased by his mother, Diana Mary Graves in 2009, and Grandmother Catherine Mary Graves in 2026.
A viewing will be held on Thursday, October 14, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Spencer, Libby & Powell Funeral Home in The Dalles, Oregon.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, October 15, at 1:00 p.m. at St. Peter Catholic Church in The Dalles, followed by a Graveside Services and a reception in the Parish Center.
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.