June Marie Thompson, age 73, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge on June 23, 2026. A Graveside Service will be held July 11, 2026, 10:30 AM at Lone Pine Cemetery in Wamic, OR. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Long time resident of The Dalles, Ralph William “Bill” Boyden III, 65, passed away in his home on June 22, 2026, after battling cancer.
He was born in Seattle on February 17, 1961, and shortly after his family moved to White Salmon, WA, where he grew up participating in boy scouts, playing baseball and basketball, and developing a love for rock music and playing the guitar. He graduated from high school as a Columbia Bruin. He went on to study at Washington State University for 2 years before he married Shelley (Fink) of White Salmon in August of 1984. They moved to Vancouver, WA, where Bill worked as a recording engineer at Recording Associates in Portland. He went on to complete a computer programming certificate through the Computer Career Institute in 1987. There he won multiple awards and secured a job prior to graduation with R&R Sy-Tec in The Dalles, which began his 40 year career in computer programming and IT. After 10+ years with R&R Sy-Tec, he spent 20+ years between Goldendale Aluminum and Northwest Aluminum Specialties, during which he started his own small business, eggKrate Custom Computing, of 15+ years, and concluded his career with 10+ years at NORCOR, from which he retired in April 2026.
Bill was an active member of his community: attending church, playing music on worship teams, volunteering with AYSO soccer, coaching little league baseball, volunteering with TCBS, and helping friends with computer questions. He enjoyed many activities: playing guitar, golfing, camping, huckleberry picking, playing cards, and spending time with family and friends. He and Shelley were avid attendees of their children’s and grandchildren’s sporting activities, and he loved spending summers swimming in his above ground pool with his children and grandchildren.
Bill leaves behind his wife, Shelley, in The Dalles; his 3 children: Angelica (Kevin) Chambers in McMinnville, OR, Marten Boyden in Leander, TX, and Emily (Remy) Wills, in The Dalles; his 8 grandchildren: Whimsy Bliss Boyden, Glory Jane Boyden, Oren Micah Boyden, Olive Susan Wills, Hannie Grace Wills, Pippa Rosemary Wills, Tate Wilson Chambers and Lane Belami Chambers; as well as his sisters: Elaine (Colin) and Jennifer, and numerous nieces and nephews between him and Shelley.
Bill was preceded in death by his mother, Margaret Louise Boyden, in 1999 and his father, Ralph William Boyden Jr. D.D.S., in 2012.
A memorial service is planned for 11 AM on Friday, July 24, 2026, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in The Dalles, with a celebration of life to follow for family and close friends.
In loving memory of Bill. Father. Husband. Friend.
Nancy Ellen Brown, age 89, a resident of Dufur, OR, passed away at home on June 17, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Celebrating the Life of Kenny Catlin
April 1st, 1965 – June 13, 2026
Kenneth "Kenny" Catlin was a huge man with an even bigger heart—a larger-than-life presence who spent his days ensuring no one around him ever went hungry, felt unloved, or stood without a friend. On June 13, 2026, at 4:51 p.m., Kenny was summoned home too soon after a fierce courageous battle with ALS. As he took his last breath, a powerful gust of wind swept through the garden, carrying his legendary spirit home to the family awaiting him, leaving a world that will never quite be the same without his light.
A Journey of Passion, Hard Work, and Flavor
Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and 400 pounds, covered in tattoos, Kenny could easily command a room, but it was his profound kindness and booming laugh that truly captured it. In his younger years, Kenny worked the sawmills and braved the open ocean as a galley cook and fisherman on commercial fishing boats sailing to Alaska. It was during those rugged maritime days that he earned the affectionate moniker "Kenny Foo Yuk,” given to him by his brother Bobby, a testament to a lifelong passion for feeding people that started long before he ever owned a business.
In 2015, Kenny realized his ultimate dream and ambition by opening the Beachwood Eatery. The restaurant became his absolute pride and joy. Despite the endless trials of running a business, Kenny was always in his element there—happily greeting customers with a smile, sharing a story, and pouring his soul into his cooking. He used his kitchen not just to serve food, but to care for and uplift his entire community.
A Love Story and an Ever-Growing Family
The true anchor of Kenny’s life was his family. He met the absolute love of his life, Nancy, when she was just 13 years old. They shared a beautiful, rollercoaster romance filled with highs and navigating the lows together for many years, culminating in their marriage on June 25, 2006. Though they faced many seasons, Kenny’s heart always brought him right back to his beloved Nancy. His brother-in-law, Terry, beautifully noted the depth of this bond, sharing:
"Let me tell you about a man. Not just any man…. The man with the largest heart I ever have met. Kenny would do anything for you if you were friends or family... today was his anniversary to my beautiful sister Nancy. He fought hard to make it, but in the end had to say goodbye early. He was giving to his last breath."
To Kenny, family was never defined strictly by blood; it was defined by love. He proudly claimed three sons: Austin, Cody, and Billy. From day one to his very last breath, Kenny never saw Billy as anything less than his own son. As his boys grew, Kenny welcomed their significant others—Katelyn, Gabriella, and Jessi—with open arms and instant compassion. When Jessi joined the family and came to work alongside him at the Beachwood Eatery, they formed an unbreakable bond. He became a mentor, teaching her not only the art of cooking but the true meaning of community stewardship, leaving behind lessons that will be carried forward forever.
Among the proudest moments of his life was the day he became a grandfather. Kenny was the very first person to ever hold his grandson, Johny—fondly known to him as "JJ"—and he cherished him with a fierce, protective love from that exact moment.
A Lasting Legacy
Kenny would do absolutely anything for anyone at any time. To list every life he touched, every mouth he fed, and every person who considered him an "adopted" father, brother, or friend would fill an entire book. He accepted people exactly as they were, and if his children loved someone, Kenny loved them instantly too.
Kenny was preceded in death by his beloved mother, father, brothers, and sisters, who were called home before him. He leaves behind a massive, heartbroken, but deeply grateful village, including his loving wife, Nancy Catlin; his three sons, Austin Catlin(Gabriella), Cody Catlin (Katelyn), and Billy Byram(Jessi); his cherished grandson, JJ; his brother, Bobby(Diane);his brother Jeff (Connie) his sisters, Vickie and Nina; his mother-in-law Virgina Mckay; his father-in-law Frank Mckay; his brother-in-laws, Terry Mckay (Carey),Frankie Mckay and David Helms (Lana) and countless nieces, nephews, extended family, and community members.
Celebration of Life
In true keeping with Kenny’s explicit wishes, his family will not be dwelling only on the sorrow of his departure, but rather throwing a gathering worthy of his memory. A Celebration of Life will be held on July 18, 2026, where stories will be shared, his memory will be honored, and a life incredibly well-lived will be celebrated.
In honor of Kenny’s giving spirit, his family asks that you take a moment today to hug your loved ones a little tighter, say a prayer for Nancy and the family during this transition, and live as Kenny did: with an open heart, a ready laugh, and a kindness tha
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Reece Andrew Miller, age 26, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on June 13, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Joshua Ray Hill, lovingly known as Josh, passed away on April 26, 2026, at the age of 31.
Born in Clackamas, Oregon, to Jim and Cresen Hill, Josh graduated from South Wasco County High School in 2013 and spent much of his life in Wamic, Oregon, a place he deeply loved. In 2025, he moved to Phoenix, Arizona, to continue building his future.
Josh had a lifelong passion for motorcycles and mechanics. He worked as a motorcycle mechanic in Wamic before relocating to Phoenix, where he worked in maintenance while attending Motorcycle Mechanic School at UTI. He earned his HondaPro Certificate and was proudly working toward graduation in August 2026.
Josh loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, riding dirt bikes, and working on vehicles. He was always willing to help others and cherished time spent with family and friends. His kindness, humor, loyalty, and adventurous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Josh is survived by his parents, Jim and Cresen Hill; his brother, Jimmy Hill, and sister-in-law, Kayla Hill; his nieces, Juniper and Aspen Hill; and many extended family members and close friends.
A celebration of life will be held on June 20, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Wasco County Fair & Rodeo Grounds.
Though his life was cut short, Josh’s memory lives on in the stories shared, the trails ridden, and the hearts of all who loved him. His spirit will forever ride with those who knew him.
MaryRuth Stranz, age 73, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on June 6, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Cleeve Roger Canning, age 78, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at The Dalles Health and Rehabilitation Center on May 24, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Brenda Sue Gaither, age 71, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Columbia Basin Care Facility on June 1, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held on June 27, 2026, 1:00 to 4:00 PM at Bargeway Pub, 1535 Bargeway Rd., The Dalles, OR 97058. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Daren Wayne Leazer, age 63, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge on May 30, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Michael Arthur Johnson, 77, of The Dalles, Oregon, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service, friendship, and devotion to family and community.
Born on September 16, 1948, in Yakima, Washington, Michael was the son of Arthur and Opal Johnson. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, an experience that remained an important part of his life and identity.
For many years, The Dalles was the place Michael called home. A hardworking man who never shied away from a challenge, he worked throughout his life as a truck driver, limousine driver, landscaper, and at John Day Dam. No matter the job, Michael was known for his reliability, determination, and willingness to lend a helping hand.
Service to others was at the heart of who Michael was. He dedicated many years as a volunteer firefighter with The Dalles Fire Department, eventually earning the rank of Volunteer Captain. He took great pride in serving and protecting his community and formed lifelong friendships through his years of volunteer service.
Michael was also a passionate model train enthusiast. His love of trains inspired him to establish a train club at the Oregon Veterans Home in The Dalles, where he enjoyed sharing his hobby and bringing joy to fellow veterans and residents. Whether working on a model railroad display or discussing trains with friends, Michael's enthusiasm was contagious.
When he wasn't volunteering or working on trains, Michael enjoyed watching movies, especially classic westerns and films starring John Wayne. He appreciated the stories, characters, and values reflected in those timeless favorites.
Above all, Michael cherished his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Marion Johnson; his son, Brad Johnson; his daughter, Danette Johnson; his brother, Richard Trevis; his sisters, Marilyn Kafulides and Barbara Shannon; and his niece, Katrina Kafulides. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Opal Johnson.
Michael will be remembered for his generous spirit, strong sense of duty, and unwavering commitment to those he loved. His kindness, humor, and willingness to help others touched many lives and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at I.O.O.F. Three Mile Cemetery, 2565 Three Mile County Road, The Dalles, Oregon 97058.
Spencer, Libby & Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.
Sandra Ann Mausolf, age 63, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at home on May 29, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Barbara Frances Strickland Bailey (84), of The Dalles, Oregon, died on Mother’s Day, May
10, 2026, at her home.
She was born in 1941, to Rex Strickland and Lorena Matthews Strickland in Seattle,
Washington. Barbara grew up on Magnolia in Seattle before moving to Edmonds, Washington
where she attended high school, trained her Appaloosa horse “Palouse”, and water skied on
Puget Sound. Although she spent her freshman year of college at Washington State
University, she graduated from University of Puget Sound where she was a member of the
Alpha Phi Sorority.
She met her future husband on a blind date, and made him wait for her while her father made
sure he was acceptable. She married Bob Bailey in 1963. She moved to her husband’s cherry
farm in The Dalles, Oregon and had two children, Brenda Frances and Bridget Suzanne.
Barbara was married for 62 years, and lived a life centered around farming, traveling, and trying
to make the world a better place. Her work was as varied as teaching 6th graders at Dry Hollow
Elementary, and later, serving as President of her family real estate business. Barbara’s advocacy
as a “Concerned Citizen” resulted in the relocation of a planned Zirconium plant away from the
Columbia River Gorge. She also testified before Congress to create the Columbia River Gorge
National Scenic Area. Later, Governor Roberts appointed Barbara to serve on the initial
Columbia River Gorge Commission. She beautified her community as a Master Gardner, and by
creating a public green space along Mill Creek, where the Fort Dalles US Army horses were
tethered and cared for.
Barbara backpacked in the Wallowa Mountains and the Three Sisters Wilderness. She trekked
the Himalayas with her brother Tom, guided by her friend Tenzing Norgay. She purchased a
beach house on the Oregon coast and lovingly renovated it to share with friends and family. She
studied dressage, Italian cooking, and gardening techniques in Britain and France. She loved all
animals, and especially her corgis.
Barbara is survived by her husband Bob (The Dalles, Oregon), daughters Brenda (Thomas)
and Bridget (Nisley Bailey), son-in laws Sterling Thomas (The Dalles Oregon), Eric Nisley
(Madras, Oregon), grandson Augustus Thomas (Chicago, Illinois), grand-daughter Elizabeth
Nisley Bailey (San Francisco, California), sister Nancy (Port Townsend, Washington) and
brother Tom (Edmonds, Washington). She was preceded in death by her sister Lorena.
Memorials or donations may be made to Friends of the Columbia Gorge or Columbia Gorge
Humane Society.
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral home in care of arrangements.
Penny Sue Deurwaarder, age 79, a resident of Wamic, OR, passed away at home on May 20, 2026., Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Beau Joseph Christopherson, age 34, a resident of Hood River, OR, passed away May 19, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Sally Ann Hall, age 72, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at the Oregon Veterans Home on May 23, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Matthew Michael Oakes Geary, age 42, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at OHSU Hospital on May 22, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Wanda Ive Willis, age 91, a resident of Maupin, OR, passed away at Canyon Rim Assisted Living on May 12, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Irma Irene Nichols, age 61, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away at OHSU Hospital on May 1, 2026. The Funeral Mass will be Friday, May 15, 2026, 4:00 pm at St. Peter Catholic Church, following the Funeral Mass there will be a viewing at Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home from 5:30 to 8:30 pm. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Kozet Ann Mitchell, age 50, a resident of Tygh Valley, OR, passed away at home on May 7, 2026. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.