Evelyn Joyce Clayton (Maiden name - Aas), age 93, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, in The Dalles, Oregon.  A devoted Christian and beloved matriarch, Evelyn’s life was marked by faith, family, and quiet dedication to her community.

Born on December 29, 1932, in Pequot Lakes, Minnesota, Evelyn moved with her family to The Dalles, Oregon in 1943, where she graduated from The Dalles High School in 1950. She shared this milestone with her future husband Gilbert Clayton and her sister Arlene Kerbs. Evelyn and Gilbert’s bond began during his service in the U.S. Navy and National Guard and grew into a lifelong partnership rooted in love and mutual respect. Evelyn worked alongside Gilbert as a bookkeeper in their businesses; Gilbert Clayton Well Drilling and the family cherry orchard on Lambert Street.

Evelyn was an accomplished typist whose professional career spanned three decades. She worked diligently for attorneys and later at First Interstate Bank in The Dalles. Her precision and work ethic earned her the respect of colleagues and clients alike.

A woman of deep faith, Evelyn was confirmed in the Lutheran Church at the age of 13. Her spiritual life remained central throughout her years, guiding her actions and nurturing her enduring love for family.

Evelyn found joy in the simple pleasures of life—gardening vegetables in her backyard, crocheting, quilting blankets with her Lutheran World Relief group, and canning fruits & preserves that filled her home with warmth each season. These hobbies reflected her nurturing spirit and attention to detail.

She is lovingly remembered by her three sons: Craig (Kari), Dan, and Kent (Debbie); brother Orville Ray Aas (Sharon) and family; grandchildren Keith Clayton (Crystal) with children Cameron, Joaquin, Jackson, Zoe, and Sadie Grace; Neil Clayton (Erin) with children Natalie Patzkowski (Luke), Sean, and Samuel; Lindy Mongenel (Matt) with children Braxton and Enzo; Benjamin Chapman; Kenna Clayton; Kyle Clayton; Melissa Clayton (fiance’ Justin Paul), Austin Clayton. In total, Evelyn leaves behind eleven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren who will carry forward her legacy of love.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 66 years Gilbert Clayton; infant daughter Jan Marie; parents Orville Calmer Aas and Ruth Anne Aas; and sister Arlene Grace Kerbs.

May Evelyn’s memory bring comfort to all who knew her. A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Faith Lutheran Church 2810 W 10th St. Light refreshments will be served after the Service.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Faith Lutheran Church, The Dalles or the Oregon Veterans Home.

Richard Allen Miller of The Dalles, Oregon, passed away February 3, 2026, after living bravely with ALS.  He was born February 6, 1946, in Massena, Iowa to Albert and Frances Miller.  Rich grew up on a farm near Corning alongside his three brothers.  The Miller boys spent their days playing baseball in the pasture by the creek, shooting hoops in the barn, and helping with chores on the farm.  These were lessons in teamwork and perseverance that shaped the rest of Rich’s life.

After attending grade school in a one-room schoolhouse, Rich went on to Corning High School where he played football, wrestled, and pitched for the baseball team.  Following graduation he attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (GO BIG RED!) on a combined baseball and wrestling scholarship.  While there, he joined Delta Tau Delta fraternity, was admitted to the College of Pharmacy, and served as the college’s representative to the Associated Students of UNL.  An unlucky ski accident and a fortunate introduction to rehabilitation changed his course.  Rich became one of twelve students admitted to the first Physical Therapy class at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

Rich often said being a part of that first class was the best thing that ever happened to him because one of those classmates was Karen Rieker, who became the love of his life and best friend.  Rich and Karen graduated from the physical therapy school in 1972 and married in 1973, setting the stage for more than 52 years of partnership in both life and work that brought joy, care, and inspiration to many.

In 1974 Rich and Karen set off for Oregon where Rich was hired to start the first physical therapy department at what was then The Dalles General Hospital.  Rich served as Director of Physical Therapy there for 10 years before partnering to form East Cascade Physical therapy, a private practice specializing in orthopedics and sports medicine. He was an active member of the Oregon Physical Therapy Association and represented the state at the American Physical Therapy Association’s national conference.  Rich loved every aspect of his work, but his favorite part was getting to know and care for each of his patients.

Outside of work, sports remained a centerpiece of Rich’s life.  He ran marathons and achieved a personal goal when he qualified for and ran the Boston marathon in 1993.  A devoted coach and mentor, Rich served on local baseball boards for the Hustlers, Babe Ruth, and Little League programs, proudly coaching the Little League All-Stars to a third-place finish in the state tournament in 1991.  He loved golfing with his friends at The Dalles Country Club, white-water rafting and the Oregon coast.  He was a longtime member of Zion Lutheran Church where over the years he served on council, was president of the congregation, and president of the trust fund.

After retirement, Rich enjoyed spending time with family and friends, traveling, golfing, tending his garden, and rooting for his favorite teams.  He faced his journey with ALS with courage, grace, and gratitude, always thankful for the love and support that surrounded him. 

Rich is survived by his beloved wife Karen, his daughter Brittany and her husband Miles Imwalle, his son Collin and his wife Maya Miller and grandchildren Elise, Abigail, Isabel and Isla.  He is also survived by his brothers Tom Miller and Pat Miller, and was preceded in death by his oldest brother Dale Miller.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests gifts in Rich’s memory be made to ALS Northwest (825 NE Multnomah, Suite 940, Portland, OR 97232), an organization instrumental in supporting Rich and his family and others living with ALS in the area, Zion Lutheran Church Trust Fund, or a charitable organization of your choosing.

Gary Elmer Conley January 4, 1935 – February 1, 2026

Gary Elmer Conley was born in The Dalles, Oregon, to Elmer Conley and Sylvia Ayres. He spent his early childhood in Smock Prairie near Wamic, where he lived until age ten. His family later moved to The Dalles when his father began working for the Union Pacific Railroad. Gary attended Wilson Grade School, Whittier Junior High, and The Dalles High School, graduating with the Class of 1953. During his youth he worked summers on his uncles’ farms, especially during harvest, forming a lifelong connection to the land and the people of Wasco County.

In 1953, Gary married Shirley Robertson. This past November, they celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary—a milestone marked by deep devotion and partnership. Together they raised three children.

At age nineteen, Gary began what would become a remarkable 43 year career with the Union Pacific Railroad. His dedication to his work and his community was evident throughout his life. He was a proud member of the Wasco County Pioneers and was honored as Wasco County Pioneer Man of the Year in 2020. He was also active in the Senior Center, delivering Meals on Wheels for more than twenty years.

Gary was a longtime member of the Columbia Gorge Power Sledders, where he oversaw trail grooming for many years and served as the cook for their annual chili feed. His commitment to service extended to the First Christian Church, where he ushered and played a key role in the setup for the “Last Days of Jesus” Easter production. His knowledge of Wasco County history was extensive, and he loved sharing it with others.

He was also active in the Elks Club, the Eagles Club, and the Union Pacific Employees Club, serving as President in 2020 and organizing their annual retirement dinners. Outside of his community work, Gary loved hunting, motorcycles, snowmobiling, and spending time in the mountains—especially at his beloved hunting cabin in Friend.

Gary is survived by his wife, Shirley Conley; his children Cindy Bakke (David) of Gresham, Kelly Carroll (Jim) of Ridgecrest, California, and Ty Conley of Salem; his grandchildren Isaiah Martin, Carl Bakke, Bryce Bakke, and Kylee Koch; and six great grandchildren. He is also survived by his nephew Larry Conley of Bend; nieces Ruth Graham, Lesley Nelson, and Camie Metheny; and nephew Calvin Meyers.

A Memorial Service will be held February 21, 2026, at 10:30 AM at The First Christian Church, 909 Court St., The Dalles, OR 97058.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Dalles Senior Center.

Arrangements by Spencer, Libby & Powell Funeral Home.

Sienna Mondragon, born on February 11, 2010, passed away in the early morning hours of Sunday, February 1, at the age of 15.

Born to German and Lucy Mondragon, Sienna was a cherished and deeply loved daughter and sister whose presence brought light, creativity, and strength to her family and all who knew her. From her first moments of life—when a nurse remarked on her long, beautiful eyelashes—Sienna left a lasting impression.

Sienna was a gifted and passionate young woman who loved the arts, especially theater. She was actively involved in soccer, band, choir, and drama, and approached everything she did with fierce determination and tenacity.

Mature beyond her age, Sienna was often a voice of reason to those in her circles, offering honesty, love, and gentle reminders to be kind with one another. Her voice, both in song and in spirit, filled her home and will be deeply missed.

Sienna was eagerly anticipating her 16th birthday trip to New York with her father to experience the magic of Broadway, reflecting her deep love for the arts.

She is survived by her loving parents, German and Lucy Mondragon, and her sisters, Ebany and Nadia. Though her time with us was brief, Sienna lived a full and vibrant life. Her memory, light, and love will forever remain in our hearts.

A viewing will be held Friday, February 6, 2026, 3:30 to 6:30 PM, at Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home, 1100 Kelly Ave., The Dalles, OR. Funeral Service will be Saturday, February 7, 2026, 10:30 AM at Calvary Baptist Church, 3350 Columbia View Dr., The Dalles, OR.

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

Jean Ellen Waterbury was born on March 5, 1930, in Salem, Oregon, to Otto and Bertha Rogen. She passed away on February 2, 2026, at the age of 95.

Jean was raised in Salem, Portland, and Taft (Lincoln City), Oregon. She graduated from Taft High School in 1947 and later attended Linfield College in McMinnville, Oregon. While there, she met fellow student George Waterbury of Toledo, Oregon. The two were married in 1950.

Jean and George lived in Portland for three years before moving to Salem, where they purchased and operated a janitorial business. There they raised their family of five sons and one daughter. In 1972, they moved to Seattle, Washington, where they lived until relocating to The Dalles, Oregon, in 1997.

In 2012, Jean moved to The Springs at Mill Creek, where she remained until her passing. The family extends their sincere gratitude to The Springs and its staff for the compassionate care they provided her.

She is survived by her children: Jay (Vicky) Waterbury of The Dalles, Oregon; Scott Waterbury of Snohomish, Washington; Mike Waterbury of Snohomish, Washington; Mark Waterbury of Glacier, Washington; Jim (Carla) Waterbury of Newberg, Oregon; and Jill Averett of Yuba City, California. She is also survived by nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Jean was preceded in death by her husband, George Waterbury; her sisters, Dorothy Bard and Olive King; and her brother, Orion Rogen.

A celebration of life may be held at a later date.

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

Steven William Held, age 77, a resident of Maupin, OR, passed away at home on January 28, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Marcia Kaye (Thorson) Nordwalll, 76, of The Dalles, Oregon, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 2, 2026, at The Dalles Health and Rehabilitation Center after a long battle with cancer.

Marcia Kay Nordwall was born on February 18, 1949, to Alvord and Agnes (Odland) Thorson. She attended elementary school in Sunburg, MN, and graduated from Glenwood High School in 1967. She continued her education at Mankato State University majoring in Psychology.

On September 12, 1970, Marcia was married to Earl Nordwall at First Lutheran Church in rural New London, MN. Together they owned and operated fine dining restaurants in Minnesota, South Dakota, Colorado, and Serenity's in Trout Lake, Washington. Marcia's passion was entertaining and cooking special dishes especially old family Scandinavian dishes.

Marcia is survived by her niece, Ariel; nephews, Dennis and Jesse; aunt, June Odland of Spicer; cousins Lynette and Dave Cors and family; Lyle and Charlene Bengtson and family; Lenda and Doug Sammons and family; Wayne and Deb Odland and family; and families of the late Lance Bengtson and Gaylon Odland. Marcia was preceded in death by her husband, Earl; father, Alvord; mother, Agnes Mair; and, brothers Larry and Ronald Thorson.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date at Crow River Lutheran Church, rural Belgrade, MN.

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

Kitty Lou Baylous, age 79, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Columbia Basin Care Facility on February 3, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

William Luther MacKenzie, age 83, a resident of Wasco, OR, passed away at home on February 2, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Colleen Vada Reis, age 65, a resident of Prineville, OR, Passed away February 4, 2026. A private family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Bette Hyatt was born on January 6, 1942, and passed away on January 26, 2026.

Bette was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, leaving behind a strong and lasting legacy. She proudly served her country in both the National Guard and the Naval Reserve for a total of 20 years. She also served her community as a volunteer firefighter and first responder with the Wamic Rural Fire District.

Bette worked in a bakery before beginning a long career with TriMet, where she served as a bus driver and later as a road supervisor for 20 years. She loved the outdoors, especially going on RV camping trips with her husband and family. Bette was known for her outgoing personality and free spirit.

Bette is survived by her loving husband, Howard Hyatt; her son, Dennis Hyatt; her daughter, Tracy Lamance; her daughter-in-law, April Hyatt; her son-in-law, Donald Lamance; seven grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

She will be loved always and never forgotten.

Anna “Nicki” Nicole Chapman, age 38, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge on January 27, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Mark Weslie Keever, born August 12, 1978, to Gary and Janet Keever in St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away peacefully January 22, 2026 in Dufur, Oregon. Mark was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend whose life was rooted in family, hard work, and simple joys. He graduated from The Dalles High School in 1996 and went on to build a life centered around the people he loved most.

On June 30, 2012, Mark married the love of his life, Kayla Keever. Together they welcomed their son, Zachary, in 2013, and their daughter, Tenley, in 2015—his children were his greatest pride and joy. Mark worked at Oregon Equipment since 1996, where he was known for his dedication and strong work ethic. Outside of work, he found happiness in old cars and lawnmower racing with his kids, hobbies that reflected his mechanical skill and love for hands-on pursuits.

Mark will be remembered for his loyalty to family and friends, his hardworking nature, and the joy he found in the things he loved. Known for his quick wit and sense of humor, Mark enjoyed ending a conversation with, “I’m glad you got to see me”. His legacy lives on through his children and the many lives he touched. And though his race ended earlier than any of us wished, Mark crossed the finish line with a life full of love, laughter, and memories that will forever remain.

He is survived by his wife, Kayla Keever; his children, Zachary and Tenley Keever; his sister, Jamie Keever-Barzee; and his grandmother, Arlene Finwick. He is further survived by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Mark also held dear the memories shared with his Uncle Randy and Aunt Cindy Keever, whose love and guidance profoundly impacted his life. Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Gary and Janet Keever.

A service celebrating Mark’s life will be held on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at the Fort Dalles Readiness Center.

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

David Walter Kendall, age 82, a resident of Tygh Valley, OR, passed away at home on January 24, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Steve Earl Baldwin, age74, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on January 21, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Teresa Rae Dirks, age 85, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge on January 21, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Dwayna Lee Holland, age 71, a resident of Tygh Valley, OR, passed away at home on January 12, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Sport Park Club House in Tygh Valley on February 28, 2026, at 1:00 PM. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Roy Robert Johnson, beloved son, brother, grandson, and friend, passed away on October 19, 2025, at the age of 25. He was born on February 16, 2000, in The Dalles, Oregon, to Cheryl Johnson and Jerry Johnson.

Roy grew up in The Dalles and graduated from The Dalles High School with the Class of 2018. Over the years, he worked hard in a variety of jobs — managing a car wash, operating tractors in the vineyards, and working with a tree arborist company. No matter the task, Roy brought dedication, humor, and a strong work ethic to everything he did.

In his younger years, Roy found joy in adventure and the outdoors. He enjoyed dirt bike riding, playing baseball, skateboarding, reading, and spending time with his close friends and family. Roy had a deep love for animals and shared a special bond with his dog, Brody, who was always by his side.

Roy is survived by his parents, Cheryl Johnson and Jerry Johnson; his siblings, Joshua Johnson, Tyson Guastad, and Heather Tufti; and his grandparents, Bernice Miles and Ed Johnson. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Janet Johnson and Dennis Miles.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 1:00 PM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, located at 1815 E 15th Street, The Dalles, Oregon.

Arrangements are in the care of Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home.

Keith Louis Hockman, age 85, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at the Oregon Veterans Home on January 7, 2026. A Viewing will be held January 30, 2026, 4 - 7 PM and the Funeral Service will be January 31, 2026, 12 PM, both will be held at Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home, 1100 Kelly Ave., The Dalles, OR. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Patricia Anne Alfson Hartley (“Trish”) January 25, 1969 – January 8, 2026

Patricia Anne Alfson Hartley, lovingly known as “Trish,” passed away on January 8, 2026. She was born on January 25, 1969, in Madison, South Dakota, to Terry and Dee Alfson.

Trish spent her early childhood in Madison before her family moved to Aberdeen, South Dakota, where she began her elementary education. In 1981, she relocated to The Dalles, Oregon, where she attended The Dalles Middle School and later graduated from The Dalles High School in 1987.

Trish continued her education at Western Oregon State College, earning her Bachelor of Science degree in Business in 1992. Her strong work ethic and dedication began early—while still in high school, she started working for Edward Jones in 1987 alongside her father. After college, she built a long and respected career with Edward Jones, serving as a Branch Office Administrator in Canby, Oregon, and later moving to McMinnville, where she spent the remainder of her career as a Senior Branch Office Administrator.

Trish married Mike in 1996, and together they built a life centered around family and love. She was a devoted mother to her two daughters, Hannah (born in 1997) and Madeline (born in 2000), and she was incredibly proud of the women they became.

In addition to her career and family, Trish gave back to her community through years of service as a board member for Care for Kids, an organization she supported with time, dedication, and heart.

Trish’s personality filled every room she entered. She enjoyed NASCAR, football (especially cheering on her favorite team, the Seattle Seahawks), and had a deep love for the USA and patriotism. She also loved playing Pokeno, watching movies and TV, and most of all, spending meaningful time with friends and family.

Trish is survived by her husband, Mike Hartley; daughters Hannah Hartley and Madeline Esparza (and son-in-law Andres Esparza); her parents, Terry Alfson and Dee Alfson; brother Christopher Alfson (and sister-in-law Heather Lostrom); sisters Tara Donivan (and brother-in-law Ben Donivan) and Heather Runyon (and brother-in-law JR Runyon); niece Olivia Steadman (and nephew-in-law Connor Steadman); nieces Emma Alfson, Morgan Donivan, and Sadie Runyon; nephews Nolan Donivan and Logan Runyon; and great-niece Oaklee Steadman.

Service Details

A Funeral Mass Service will be held on January 16, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Saint Peter’s Catholic Church in The Dalles, Oregon, with Father Rene officiating.

A Celebration of Life will also be planned for late spring or early summer. Additional details will be shared once a date has been confirmed. All are welcome to attend both the Funeral Mass and the Celebration of Life as we gather to honor and remember Trish.

In Trish’s memory, and because her favorite color was purple, guests are encouraged to wear purple if they wish.

Trish will be cremated, and her remains will be distributed among family in places that meant the most to her—Hawaii during our family trip, as well as The Dalles and McMinnville, Oregon.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Spencer, Libby & Powell Funeral Home, The Dalles, Oregon.

The family would like to extend a special and sincere thank you to the entire Providence Medical Team, especially the staff in the ICU and on the 5G floor. Their exceptional care, kindness, and compassion truly made a difference during an incredibly difficult time. They fought right

alongside us as we prayed and hoped for Trish’s life, and their unwavering support will never be forgotten. We cannot thank them enough.

Trish will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her love, loyalty, and the joy she brought to everyone who knew her. Trish lived her life with a selfless and giving spirit, always putting others before herself. She was an inspiration to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her and being in her presence. With her warm smile and contagious laugh, she had a way of lighting up every room she entered. Her strength, courage, and unwavering love for those around her will never be forgotten.