Ruth Irene Brown, age 85, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at a local care facility on April 24, 2025. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Rhue Dean VanCleave, age 88, a resident of Tygh Valley, OR, passed away at home on April 23, 2025. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Juanita June (Crofford) Carpenter, 97, passed peacefully on April 24, 2025, at the Oregon Veterans Home in The Dalles, Oregon. Juanita was born on August 27, 1927, in Yakima, Washington. She was the oldest of five children born to Abram and Evelyn Crofford.

Raised in Whitefish, Montana during the depression, she graduated high school in Cut Bank, Montana in 1945. She spent the war years working for Bell Telephone, in Shelby, Montana, as a switchboard operator. In 1946-47, Juanita enrolled at Northwest Nazarene College, where she majored in Elementary Education. There, she also met her future husband, Donald Carpenter, who was majoring in Music Education. They were married in 1948, and four years later started their family.

Juanita, Donald, and their two boys spent many years in Idaho and Montana before moving to The Dalles, Oregon, in 1957. Juanita took a job as a bookkeeper with the Apex Finance Company. However, having an appreciation for the arts, and being a talented piano player, it wasn’t long before she was hired by The Dalles School District #12 as an elementary music education specialist. Juanita would travel from school to school, classroom to classroom, teaching music appreciation, singing, and playing simple instruments.

During the summers, Juanita and her husband would pack up the family, move to Portland, and attend summer school at Portland State University. In doing so, Juanita finished her degree in Elementary Education. With a Bachelor's of Science certificate in hand, Juanita accepted a 3rd grade teaching position at Dry Hollow Elementary.

When her children were independent enough, she again enrolled at Portland State University in pursuit of a Masters degree. Juanita would commute to Portland for classes during the day, only to return home in time to give piano lessons.

Possessing an affinity for the arts, and as a noted bibliophile, Juanita was awarded with a Master’s degree in Media Science. These credentials allowed her to finish her career in the service of youth in the community as a school librarian. In fact, one of her granddaughter’s-in-law vividly remembers how engaging her library was at Colonel Wright Elementary, no doubt partly due to the introduction of Apple Computers and “The Oregon Trail” computer game, as well as Juanita’s ability to share her love of books. True to form, Juanita’s family is still discovering in her possession personally signed tomes by the likes of authors such as Shel Silverstein, Maurice Sendak, Eric Carle, and Beverly Cleary.

          When it came time to retire from serving the school community, Juanita remained engaged with philanthropic organizations such as P.E.O. International and Daughters of the American Revolution, volunteering as a Docent at Maryhill Museum of Art, she had substantial social involvement in Bridge and Golf at The Dalles Country Club, and the Swap and Swing Square Dance Club. She was, later in life, limited with her active travel time enjoyment due to a freak accident that severely limited her ability to use her legs and hands.

Juanita is survived by her sister, Naomi (Phillip) Beymer of Eugene, Oregon; her son Michael (Lynn) Carpenter of The Dalles, Oregon; her grandsons Kyle (Jennifer) Carpenter of Aurora, Oregon, and Cory (Karyn) Carpenter of Bozeman, Montana; three great-grandsons, Conley, Kase, and Cutler; and one great-granddaughter, Wren. As well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald; son, Steven; parents, and brothers, Calvin, Norman, and Donald Crofford.

Juanita will be remembered for her love of teaching youth, her fierce intellect, her knowledge and appreciation of art, fashion, film, music, and literature, her wonderful culinary talents, her dry sense of humor, and the overall class that she conveyed. She was truly quite the lady, admired for how she could do whatever she set out to do. Donations, in her honor, may be made to the The Dalles-Wasco County Library, or the Oregon Veterans Home. Her family would like to give special thanks for their wonderful care and support at OVH.

Arrangements are under the direction of Spencer, Libby, and Powell; 1100 Kelly Ave., The Dalles, Oregon, where condolences/remembrances may be directed.

Renee Adair Stauffer, age 66, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at a local care facility on April 6, 2025. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Donna Mae Davis, age 94, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on April 19, 2025. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Charles Allen Stanek, age 94, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge Hospital on April 18, 2025. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Gina Marie Turner, age 67, a resident of Lyle, WA, passed away at home on April 13, 2025. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Alexander William Macnab, age 71, a resident of Dufur, OR, passed away at home on April 22, 2025. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Ruth Alice Wilber, age 91, a resident of Dallesport, WA, passed away at the Oregon Veterans Home on April 22, 2025. A Graveside Service will be held Friday, April 25, 2025, 11 AM at St. Peters Catholic Cemetery in The Dalles, Oregon. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Dorothy Ann Lambert, born January 15, 1959, passed away at her residence in The Dalles on March 17, 2025.

Dorothy was a great friend who lived her life to the fullest. She was always helping someone and was always there to listen to you and be there for you when you needed someone.

She will be missed by her friends who truly loved her Bailey, Ryan, Eli, Brad and Randy who spent time with her every day. We miss you and love you dearly Dorothy!

May 20, 1936 – April 11, 2025

Raymond “Ray” Floyd Richmond, 88, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2025, in Portland, Oregon. He was born on May 20, 1936, at his family home in Maupin, Oregon, to Everett and Alma Richmond.

In his early years, Ray served proudly in the U.S. Army for two years as a mechanic and was also a member of the rifle team. After completing his service, he returned home to Maupin, where he joined his father and brother in running the Richmond Service Station. Together, they served the community for more than forty years. Ray became a trusted friend and helping hand to local farmers, especially during harvest time, known for his skill in solving mechanical problems when others couldn’t.

Ray was deeply rooted in the Maupin community. He served on the town council and spent many years as a volunteer firefighter. A familiar face at Redsides ballgames, Ray had a gift for connecting with others—often stopping on his daily walks to chat, visit friends, and share a laugh or a joke. In the summer months, you could find him tending his garden or heading to the mountains in search of huckleberries. A lifelong resident, Ray held a deep knowledge of Maupin’s history and loved reading about the area’s past.

Growing up along the Deschutes River fostered Ray’s lifelong passion for salmon fishing. During the season, he could always be found casting a line at his favorite fishing hole in the early morning or just before dusk. In the fall, he enjoyed hunting with friends—often returning not only with game but also with interesting rocks and stories to tell.

Ray is survived by a large and loving family: his wife, Fran Richmond; brother, Harvey Richmond; daughters, TerriLynne (Scott) Olson and Tiffany Richmond (Dale); stepchildren, Ryan Walker, Ernie Walker, Wade Walker (Vera), and Dena Honald (Mike); eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the South Wasco County Ambulance Service (SWCA, PO Box 125, Maupin, Oregon 97037), in honor of Ray’s lifelong commitment to his community.

A graveside service for family will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at Kelly Cemetery, followed by a Community Celebration of Life at 1:00 p.m. at the Maupin Community Church.

Ray will be remembered for his kindness, his service, and his deep love for the community he called home.

Timothy Jay McDonnell, age 57, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on March 28, 2025. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Gary Emerson passed away on April 3, 2025, at the Oregon Veterans Home in The Dalles, Oregon. He was 90 years old. 

Gary was born on June 4, 1934, along with his twin sister Mary Lou, to Lloyd and Mary (Kiggins) Emerson, in Naponee, NE.  When the twins were in grade school the family moved to Caldwell, ID. Gary graduated from Caldwell High School in 1953. He entered the Navy after graduating and spent 4 years in the Navy Seabees stationed in San Diego, CA, spending time in the Eleuthera Islands and North Africa.

Gary married Carol Ann Toft in 1957 and together they had three children, Debra, Scott and Gordon “Jay”. Gary worked on the Toft farm until 1962 when he joined the Idaho State Police and was stationed in King Hill, then Boise where his family made lifelong friends. Gary was transferred to Coeur d’Alene in 1972 where his family enjoyed spending time in the many recreation opportunities that the North Idaho area provided. He also attended North Idaho College obtaining his Associate Degree in Law Enforcement. Gary left the ISP in 1981, he and Carol returned to the Boise area in 1987 and later divorced.

Gary was an avid gardener, he raised gladiolas for many years for pleasure and as a business. After leaving the ISP, he worked in different agriculture settings.

He also worked as a Private Investigator, Bus Driver and Bus Supervisor at the Meridian School District, and spent a summer as a Campground Host in S.E. Idaho. Gary had many adventures including traveling to New Zealand and rafting the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon.

Gary loved people and their stories and had an abundance of friends. He had so many interests and hobbies over the years which gave him knowledge about a huge variety of subjects. He was definitely our go-to for any plant/gardening questions. 

His last years were spent with his companion Linda Clemens, in Goldendale, WA, where they enjoyed gardening, raising chickens, and the pleasures of country living.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Paul and Ivan and his twin sister Mary Lou King. He is survived by Linda Clemens, Goldendale, WA, his daughter Debra Emerson, Boise, and sons Scott Emerson, Nampa, and Gordon “Jay” Emerson (Dolly), Bellevue, WA. He has six grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Gary’s ashes will be interred at the Boise Veterans Cemetery. His family will gather afterward for a celebration of his life.

Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Klea Espy, born March 30, 1940, passed away on March 28, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, community service, and bright colors. 

After retiring from a career in banking, Klea devoted herself to volunteer work. She helped launch the Habitat ReStore in The Dalles in 2008. She was named The Dalles area "Volunteer of the Year" and served on the boards of Habitat for Humanity, Community Meals, the Mid-Columbia Concert Association, and The Dalles Senior Center. She also managed the Senior Center’s “Nu 2 U” shop alongside a "super bunch of dedicated volunteers."

Klea had a vibrant spirit and a love for color and crazy patterns. Whether it was painting her house purple “because it makes people smile” or organizing Hat Day at church which became a fan favorite, she had a way of spreading joy and laughter everywhere she went. 

She is survived by her half-brother Art Fox; her children Stuart Donckers and Shari Felton; stepchildren Scott Espy (Diane), Sandee Flint (Mark), and Anjee Stiles (Mike); six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Donations in her memory may be made to UCC Congregational Church, Habitat for Humanity, or the Senior Center of The Dalles.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 12th at UCC Congregational Church at 10:00am. We encourage all to wear your brightest colors or craziest hat in honor of Klea.

Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

John E Parker, age 91, a resident of Hood River, OR, passed away at a local care facility on March 27, 2025. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Clyde Thomas Schreffler, age 75, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at OHSU Hospital on March 26, 2025. A Celebration of Life will be held June 28, 2025, 11:00 AM at the First United Methodist Church, 305 E 11th St., The Dalles, OR 97058. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Robert De Bolt, age 69, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at a local care facility on March 27, 2025. A Graveside Service will be held April 1, 2025, 11:00 AM at Odd Fellows Cemetery on Cherry Heights Rd, The Dalles, OR. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Jasper McDonald Alsup, age 73, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on March 14, 2025. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Photo Credit: Terry Richards

Eugene Albert Gravel, 80, passed away at home on March 20, 2025. Born on September 3, 1944, to Lorraine Marie McGraw and Frederick Charles Gravel, Gene was the oldest of four rambunctious boys, a role that instilled in him a sense of responsibility and leadership from an early age.

Eugene served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. After his military service, he pursued a long and impactful career as a civil engineer. Among his many achievements, he contributed to significant projects such as the lock at the Bonneville Dam, a feat of engineering that remains a testament to his skill and commitment. His work also took him to remote and challenging locations, including Alaska's Prudhoe Bay and St. Paul Island, where he oversaw vital infrastructure projects.

In 1973, Gene married Lorraine Jean Rebo, and together they built a loving family. They had two children and over the years, their family grew with the addition of four grandchildren.

Those who knew Gene appreciated his quiet demeanor, which often belied a stubborn determination that served him well in both his personal and professional life. Yet, beneath his reserved exterior lay a gentle soul. Kind and generous, Gene loved giving gifts. He had the habit of quietly humming while he worked, and typically had a dog by his side.

After retiring, Gene fulfilled a lifelong dream by building a ranch on 75 acres of timberland. For the past 27 years, he found peace and joy there, surrounded by nature and the fruits of his labor. Truly a special place, the ranch was a sanctuary where he cultivated memories with family and friends.

Eugene is remembered for his unwavering dedication to his craft, his risk taking, and his love for the outdoors. He is survived by his wife, Lorraine; their two children Ryan and Erin; and his four grandchildren, Birch, Elizabeth, Basil, and Aurora.

Gene's legacy lives on through his contributions to engineering and the lives he touched along the way. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.

Susan Marie Morin (Becker), 71, of Bullhead City, Arizona, passed away on February 19, 2025, after a battle with cancer. She was the daughter of Jack and Ida Mae Becker (Hughes) and was born on July 6, 1953, in Danville, Illinois.

Susan was married to her loving husband, Michael Morin, for 53 years. The two met in San Diego while Michael was serving in the U.S. Navy. After the birth of the couple’s son, they were stationed in Japan, where they later welcomed their daughter. Upon returning stateside, they settled in The Dalles, Oregon, where they made their home and raised their family.

Susan worked for Albertsons for over 20 years, where she served as a manager before later opening and owning an insulation company with her husband. She enjoyed traveling in their RV, boating and camping on the John Day River, and going on cruises. She really enjoyed spending time with her special group of line dancing friends, was an avid reader, loved doing puzzles, and adored her dogs. In her spare time, she spent many hours crocheting baby blankets, gifting them to family and friends. Susan was passionate about giving back, supporting charities such as Wounded Warriors, organizations helping the homeless, and the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation.

She is survived by her husband, Michael Morin; her son, Jason Morin, and his wife, Julie; her daughter, Jennifer Durall (Morin), and her husband, Damon; and her grandchildren, Michael Morin, Jenna Chamness, Emily Judd (Morin), and Hunter Chamness. She also leaves behind her sisters, Sheila Becker and Valerie DiMola, five nieces and one nephew.

At her request, there will be no formal services. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of the charities Susan loved.