Obituaries

’41

William H. Kilkenny
January 29, 1919–March 12, 2023

 William Kilkenny, long-time president and CEO of the Hyster lift truck company, died on March 12, 2023 at the age of 104. With the support of family, dedicated caregivers and friends, he continued to live in an assisted living apartment at Mirabella in Portland. His death occurred peacefully at home, after a brief decline in health.

Bill was born in Portland on January 29, 1919, to John Earl Kilkenny and Ella May Edmondson Kilkenny. He graduated from Washington High School in 1938. He fell in love with Doris Dunbar at a high school dance held at the Rose Ballroom in 1937. They courted during his senior year and while he attended college at Willamette University, marrying on October 13, 1941.

Bill recounted how tragedy struck his family shortly after he and Doris married. The day after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Bill returned from Seattle after receiving his commission as a US Navy officer. He drove directly to the Kaiser shipyards to share this proud news with his father. When he arrived, co-workers informed him that his father had died earlier that day in a workplace accident. While grieving the terrible loss, Bill maintained the optimistic outlook that would become his defining trait. Eighty years later, when asked how he remained positive through the many travails of life, he replied, "What's the point in not being optimistic?"

After enlisting in the Navy, Bill and Doris spent two years in a series of stateside assignments, during which Bill attended an officer training program at Harvard Business School and enrolled in graduate school at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Two years later he was assigned to the US Naval base on Guam, where he was lieutenant commander of a battalion of 5,000 Seabees charged with loading and unloading ships supplying the Pacific theater.

Although he did not see combat during World War II, Bill survived a harrowing airplane crash. Curious after hearing news of the fierce battle for Iwo Jima, he convinced two pilots on a stopover on Guam to bring him to Iwo Jima on their troop transport flight. Upon final approach to the unfamiliar runway, with visibility hampered by the setting sun, the pilots misjudged their altitude. The plane crashed, hurtling Bill and the pilots onto the tarmac, while dozens of troops trapped in the back of the plane died in the conflagration. With no hope of rescuing survivors, the burning plane was pushed off the runway by bulldozers in order to clear the landing strip for circling aircraft awaiting clearance to land.

After the war ended, Bill and Doris celebrated the birth of their son Robert in 1947. Bill took an entry-level job in the parts department at the Hyster lift truck company. Hyster was at that time a local forklift manufacturer which was founded in Portland in 1929 - its name derived from Oregon loggers yelling "hoist 'er" when loading lumber onto trucks. Bill had noticed the great utility of forklifts in the Navy and thought this could become a burgeoning industry with widespread application. Years later, he told the story of Doris' concern upon opening his first paycheck from Hyster, which was substantially less than his Navy salary. Nonetheless they adjusted their budget and thrived, as Bill established himself in what would be a very successful career.

Bill gained multiple promotions and became president and CEO of Hyster in 1975. He successfully led the company through one of its most trying times - when several Japanese corporations engaged in below-cost "dumping" of lift trucks to drive out competition. In his quintessential optimistic style, Bill stated, "It was the best thing that could have happened to Hyster. It forced us to innovate, and when it was over, most of our competition was gone." In fact, that innovation was shepherded by Bill, who prevailed upon the very reluctant Hyster board of directors to dramatically simplify lift truck designs and move new product manufacturing to subsidized production facilities in Northern Ireland and Kentucky. This ensured that the company would survive the economic challenges and emerge stronger. Hyster-Yale remains today an international manufacturer with numerous dealerships.

Bill contributed to Oregon corporate and civic life in many ways, beyond stewardship of Hyster. He served on the boards of the Bank of California, ESCO Corporation, Omark Industries, and Jantzen Apparel. He was a trustee or director of the Oregon Business Council, Willamette University, the Portland Art Association and the Columbia Pacific Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Bill was a long-term member of the Multnomah Athletic Club and Waverley Country Club. He made sizable donations to Willamette University, Portland First Presbyterian Church, Keawala'i Congregational Church in Maui, OHSU Knight Cardiovascular Institute McAnulty Endowment and the Historic Columbian Cemetery.

Despite his demanding career and volunteer activities, Bill and Doris made ample time to enjoy each other's company. During trips to Europe, Doris would join to sightsee, and he shared fond memories of their tradition of sailing home together on the Queen Elizabeth 2. Both loved Maui (known to one young guest as "Mr. Kilkenny's island"), leading them to enter a partnership to build a large luxury resort. When interest rates rose precipitously in the early 1980s, Bill's partners entered bankruptcy, leaving him as the sole investor. He persevered, and Makena Surf remains one of the island's premier condominium developments.

Bill's business endeavors continued after he retired from Hyster. He and Bob started W. H. Kilkenny Co LLC in 1989 to manage their investments and family business. In 1994 they moved the company to a location on the Columbia River in Vancouver, where it remains today. The company was an integral part of Bill and Bob's lives. They made business trips to the East Coast and on two occasions took memorable, meandering road trips back to the West Coast. In 1992 Shar Ludwig joined the company, followed by Monica Gruher in 2007. The family wishes to thank both Shar and Monica for not only their long service with W. H. Kilkenny Co., but also their love and assistance in coordinating Bill's care in his later years.

Bill lost Doris to chronic lung disease in 1999, when she was 79 and he was 80. During the illness leading up to her death, they continued to travel and enjoy their life together. Bill set the example for friends and family with his indefatigably positive outlook during her decline, as well as his total dedication to her care. Doris' death was extremely difficult for him, but Bill worked to create a life without her. He continued taking cruises and spending winters in Maui, where Bob joined him frequently. He enjoyed frequent games of squash (a ranked player at the Multnomah Athletic Club in his younger years) and golfing with friends. Bill's birthday parties were legendary; the more friends and family the better, and he loved each one.

In the 24 years after Doris died, Bill and Bob together negotiated the progression of aging and its inevitable health and lifestyle challenges. Throughout this process, Bill's optimistic personality perfectly complemented Bob's pragmatism and attention to detail. Not surprisingly, at the end of his life, Bill's world became much smaller. But his positive attitude and the example he set for others only increased. He enjoyed video calls and drop-ins with friends, family and dogs; ice cream and burgers at the park; and trips to the Oregon Coast. Until the end of his life, he watched livestream services from First Presbyterian Church. He loved listening to jazz and watching WWII and Western movies. In his last days, when his health was failing and he was no longer able to eat or drink, Bill would still muster moments of wakefulness when he recognized that friends had come to visit. The sincere, broad smile, known so well to his friends and family, remained with him to the very end.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to Maggie and Clifford Paguio, who cared for Bill with such love, kindness and dedication in his last years. Words cannot express how much their care meant to Bill and the family. They would also like to thank Luis Vergara who joined the care team in Bill's final months. The family is also very grateful for Bill's long-time physicians: Dr. Elizabeth Haney, his primary care physician for many years; Dr. Eric Stecker, his cardiologist; Dr. Eric Simpson his dermatologist and two surgeons who were there for Bill when he needed them, Dr. Daniel Herzig and Dr. Michael Breda.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife Doris, his parents and his sister, Ruth Skibinski. He is survived by his son Robert (Rebecca Pullen), his grandson Daniel Kilkenny and his granddaughter Maria Ponce (Steve). He is also survived by great granddaughters Selena Barrera, Karrisa Barrera, Aleah Brus (Alen), Rachel Ramirez (Joe), Kimberly Ponce and Eve Ponce and great grandson Jarad Ponce as well as great-great grandsons Laro Brus, Huxley Ramirez and Tylor Ponce and great-great granddaughter Leonna Ramirez. Bill is also survived by his niece Jane Gille and nephews Scott Wintermute and Steve, Scott, Ken and Paul Smith.

’48

Ward Clarkson Miles
May 4, 1922–April 15, 2023

Born in Salem, Oregon, Ward earned a BA from Willamette U and an MD from U of Pennsylvania. In 1954 he began work at Group Health Co-op in Seattle. In 1972 he helped open the Olympia Medical Center. He moved with his wife Alice and two of their children to a small farm on Fish Trap Loop. Ward served on the State Health Care Coordinating Board and on the Group Health Foundation board after he retired in 1984. In 2001 Ward and Alice moved to Panorama City. They stayed active in Olympia Friends Meeting and were able to have a garden, which both enjoyed. Alice died in 2010. Ward moved to an apartment, then to Panorama's nursing facility. Until the end he enjoyed being part of Olympia Meeting and the Panorama community.

’49

Louise (Ellis) Wilcox
August 20, 1927–January 26, 2023

Louise (Ellis) Wilcox graduated from Willamette in 1949 with a degree in French and enjoyed  being a member of Alliance Francais for many years. She married Orland Wilcox who preceded her in death after 58 years together. Survivors include 4 children, 13 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

’51

Albert J. Lund Jr.
Febuary 8, 1930–January 29, 2023

Albert (Bert) J. Lund Jr., loved and appreciated by family, friends, and former students, went to heaven on January 29, 2023, at age 92. We will miss his unswerving dedication to our family, guiding example, leadership, and (sometimes corny) sense of humor. Bert was born on February 8, 1930, in Portland to Albert and Bertha Lund. An only child, he grew up on Portland's east side, usually in homes near his father's auto repair shop. The small family regularly attended Grant Park Baptist Church. Bert was an adept student and skipped two half-years during grade school. He played French horn in the Grant High School band and orchestra, appearing in all-state and all-Northwest bands, and was a pitcher on the baseball team. In 1947, he enrolled at Willamette University, where he continued to play music and baseball. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in history in 1951 and earned a master's degree in education from the University of Portland in 1956. Bert began his teaching career with two years at Stanfield High School in eastern Oregon, followed by a year each at Scio and Gervais. He taught students from high school to grade school in a variety of subjects: band, chorus, geography, math, English, and his specialty, history. In 1956, he moved to Eugene for a job at Wilson Junior High, where he taught social living (history and English) for the next eleven years. In 1967 he switched to Jefferson Junior High, where he taught social studies and served as department chair until retiring in 1985 after 33 years as an educator. In August 1957, Bert began dating a fellow Willamette alum who would become the love of his life: Betty Leonard. He remembered her from a play she was in when they were students. They married on June 29, 1958, and spent the rest of their lives in Eugene. Their first son, Jim, was born in 1960, and second son, Dave, arrived in 1962. Bert treasured the four grandchildren that eventually followed: Emily, Erik, Sonja, and Peter. Bert and Betty were happily married for 51 years until her death in 2010.

Marjorie A. Coffman
July 10, 1929–January 14, 2023

Marjorie “Margie” Ann Coffman, of North Bend, was born in Los Angeles, California on a nice summer day on July 10, 1929 and died on January 14, 2023 at her home in North Bend at the age of 93. Margie attended North Bend High School and went on to Willamette University and Oregon State University where she had membership in Phi Kappa Phi National Scholastic Honor Society. Membership represented the highest campus honor for outstanding scholastic achievement. After graduating, she began teaching elementary school at Roosevelt Elementary in North Bend and later volunteered for the SMART reading program. She belonged to the Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Good Sam camping group. Margie married Claude Oliver Coffman on November 26, 1948 and they spent 75 years camping, hunting, fishing, building houses, and working on rentals. They were called on two missions for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, one in Bandon and the other at Martin’s Cove, Wyoming. Margie was also a young women's and a relief society leader for her church. Margie enjoyed many hobbies including spinning, knitting, quilting, sewing, pottery and ceramics, as well as working with leather. Margie will be greatly missed by all of her family and friends.

'54

Dale T. Ackerman
October 23, 1932–September 21, 2024

Dale and his wife, Janet, had a beautiful love story and celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary together on September 18th, 2024, at their assisted living home in Simi Valley, surrounded by family. Shortly after, on September 21st, 2024, Dale passed away peacefully in his sleep to be with the Lord. In God’s graciousness, they were only separated a few short days as on October 9th Janet passed away peacefully in her sleep to be with the Lord and be reunited with her husband.

Dale was born in Douglas, Minnesota in 1932 to Ernest and Rosina Ackerman. He grew up in an impoverished family with his brother, Richard. They were nomadic, living in tents following work where it could be found. Dale had a strict, but memorable childhood. He graduated from high school in 1950 and became the first in his family to graduate from college. Dale was a hard-working man who paid his way through Willamette University with two jobs. He studied history and earned his master’s in education at California State University Northridge.

Dale would go on to marry his high school sweetheart, Janet. They met when they were 15 years old and were married on September 18, 1954, when they were 21 years old. Together they had two children, David, born in 1956, resides in Northern California, and Karen, born in 1959, resides in Simi Valley. Dale and Janet moved to Camarillo where he worked with Oxnard School District, while Janet stayed home to take care of their children.

In 1962, Dale helped open Thousand Oaks High School where he worked for 26 years. He held many positions from coach, teacher, counselor, and administrator. He started the high school basketball program, chaired the Social Studies Department, and finished his career as the Athletic Director. Dale was also the inaugural counselor at Westlake High School where he spent five years guiding students. Dale was highly involved with the California Retired Teachers Association, and he was later inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame, Education Hall of Fame, and Ventura Educators Hall of Fame.

Together in 1962, Dale and Janet became founding members of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Camarillo where they served as both Elders and Decans. They established the Christmas Dinner Dance where members could come celebrate the Christmas season with the congregation. They traveled on mission’s trips to Mexico to help build houses for those in need. Dale and Janet loved the Lord and shared their faith with those around them. Their generous hearts supported numerous charities including the Nadine Griffey Academy and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

After retirement, Dale and Janet traveled everywhere visiting countries including Papa New Guinea, Japan, China, and all over Europe to visit new places and do school accreditations. Dale remained in education after retirement as interim principal at Oaks Christian, Camarillo Heights, Oak Park, and Somis School.

Dale lived a full life. Dale loved to ride horses with Karen, go fishing, garden, tutor students, travel, hunt, and train his hunting/pet black labs (his favorite dog breed). Dale loved his children and grandchildren with everything he had. He was present and involved in every event, sport, and activity. Dale even came out of retirement from coaching basketball to coach his grandson Matthew’s varsity basketball team when they were without a coach for his senior season. He was blessed to meet his great-grandchildren and loved watching them grow. Dale truly left a legacy to remember that lives on through these children.

They are survived by their children: David Ackerman and Karen (Steve) Riley; their grandchildren: Matthew (Stacey) Riley and Bryan (Laken) Riley; their great-grandchildren: Nolan, Ryder, and Kaden whom they dearly loved.

’55

Julie A. Reid
June 6, 1933–October 28, 2023 

Julie died at home in Alhambra, CA following a short span of illness. She is survived by her daughter, Leslie, niece, Karen and her numerous friends and associates.

William McKinney JD'61
Apr. 28, 1933 – Feb. 13, 2023

William C. McKinney passed away on February 13, 2023, at the age of 89. Bill was born in Salem, attended Salem schools, and graduated from Willamette University and Willamette Law School. He was an Eagle Scout, a flying instructor in the Air Force, and a member of several organizations. He was a lawyer in Salem and retired in 1999. Bill is survived by his wife Betty Pihl McKinney, her son Christian Turpen (Jennifer), and three grandsons Tyler, Jacob, and Zachary. There will be a celebration of life in June 2023.

’57

Douglas Houser
July 11, 1935–October 1, 2024

At Willamette University, Doug earned his bachelor's degree in 1957 and became a proud member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity, an affiliation that would become a lifelong commitment. He served as the fraternity's national President in 2011-14. After graduation, he attended Stanford Law School on a scholarship, where he served as the first-year class president and ultimately as student body president. His leadership skills and academic excellence set the stage for a remarkable legal career.

Doug's legal career spanned nearly six decades at the firm that would become Bullivant Houser Bailey PC. Renowned for his expertise in insurance law, he tried 140 cases in 21 states, building a national reputation for handling complex litigation. The National Law Journal named him one of America's outstanding defense lawyers - just one of the numerous honors, achievements and awards Doug received over his remarkable career.

One of his most notable professional achievements was his role in the establishment and growth of Nike, Inc. He incorporated the company and served on the Board of Directors for Nike for 50 years.

Beyond his legal practice, Doug was deeply committed to his community. He served on the Board of Trustees for Willamette University for thirty years before becoming a Life Trustee in 2007. His volunteer leadership extended to numerous organizations, including the Oregon State Bar, Oregon Law Commission, Salvation Army, Episcopal Church, Waverly Children's Home, and the Arlington Club. Doug loved spending time with his friends at the Arlington Club and served as its president in 2013. The club was a significant part of his social life, where he fostered deep friendships and enjoyed his toastmaster events.

Upon retirement, Doug enjoyed playing golf at his home in Henderson, NV. However, his heart and soul remained with Waverley Country Club in Portland, where he cherished lifelong friendships. He always looked forward to his weekly "Dew Sweepers" early morning golf games, a tradition that brought joy and camaraderie into his life.

Doug was married to the love of his life, Lucy Houser, for over 61 years until her passing in 2022. Together, they built a family rooted in love and mutual respect. Doug is survived by his three children: Brooks Bonham Houser and wife Lori; Bradley Knight Houser and wife Jaimie; and Anne Elizabeth Houser. He was a proud grandfather to five grandchildren: Brooks Bonham, Jr.; Grant Knight; Claire Bryn; John Douglas; and Hallie MaKenna.

He was predeceased by his parents, his brother Rod and sister-in-law Lois. Doug is survived by his niece Sue Shirley and her husband, David, as well as the sons of his late niece Maryanne Christman: Sam; Jesse; and Joe.

This summer, Doug and his late wife, Lucy's, ashes will be spread in a beautiful mountain meadow near a lake where Doug and his brother, Rod, camped and fished as young boys. The Houser family made cherished memories over 50 years vacationing nearby at Black Butte Ranch.

Doug's life was enriched by his relationships and his unwavering commitment to others. He was known for his wit, optimism, and the mentorship he provided to many. His journey from overcoming a childhood speech impediment to becoming an eloquent communicator is a testament to his determination and resilience. His legacy is one of excellence, integrity, and service-a true embodiment of Willamette University's motto, "Not unto ourselves alone are we born."

Doug's passing leaves a significant void in Portland's legal and civic circles. His influence will continue to be felt through the countless lives he touched and the institutions that benefited from his leadership.

A memorial service will be held on January 18 at Waverley Country Club. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made in Doug's memory to OHSU Knight Cancer institute or a charitable organization of your choice.

James (Jim) Ronald Jones
April 17, 1935–June 15, 2024

James (Jim) Ronald Jones, 89, San Jose resident, beloved husband and father of five, died peacefully of natural causes on the eve of Father’s Day, June 15, 2024.

Jim was born in Visalia, California on April 17, 1935 to Ralph and Annella Jones, who later moved the family to Burlingame, California during World War II. During his teen years, Jim thrived as a Boy Scout, ultimately earning the rank of Eagle Scout. After graduating from San Mateo High School in 1953, Jim went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Willamette University in Salem, Oregon, where he also served on the Spirit Squad while working various jobs to pay his way through college. During his university years, Jim participated in the Air Force ROTC program, hoping to become an Air Force pilot and eventually fly for a commercial carrier. After his imperfect eyesight disqualified him from pilot training, he made the choice to pursue a career in business. During his early career years, Jim was employed with United Airlines at San Francisco International Airport and later found his career calling as a salesman: first with Addressograph-Multigraph and later with Xerox Corporation. He served 24 years at Xerox, earning many top sales awards and a promotion to National Account Manager before going on to hold key positions in marketing and finance as well. Jim enjoyed the challenge of creative endeavors, from home remodeling and landscaping projects to making drawings, etchings, and oil paintings. He owned and managed a small apartment complex in Santa Cruz for many years, doing most of the building maintenance work himself. Jim loved the outdoors. His favorite family hiking and camping destinations included Lake Pillsbury, the Trinity Alps, Pinecrest Lake, and Lake Tahoe. He also built a beautiful sailboat, made of mahogany, which he enjoyed sailing with his family over the San Francisco Bay, Monterey Bay, and his favorite mountain lakes. Jim also volunteered his time with Boy Scout Troop 80 in Mountain View during the years his sons were active in the Scouts. Throughout his life Jim made many friends, was well-liked, and renowned for his sense of humor. He lived a successful life both professionally and personally, always working on ways to grow towards his better self. He died as a cherished husband and father surrounded by the love, presence, and prayers of his family. He will be dearly missed. Jim is predeceased by his sister Sharon Jones and survived by his loving wife Diane; close family friend and former wife Ann Bunn; sister Linda Simmons; children Carl Jones, David (Jackie) Jones, Laura (Sam) Fogleman, Sarah Jones, and Michael Jones; grandchildren Joshua Jones, Lauren Jones, Alexander (Lisa) Fogleman, Briana Fogleman, and Carolyn Fogleman; and great-grandchildren Natalie Fogleman and Sierra Fogleman.

’58

George W. Hoyt
March 26, 1936–April 3, 2024

George W. Hoyt IV of Sandy, Oregon, passed away just before midnight on April 3, 2024 in the presence of family after a brief illness, one week after celebrating his 88th birthday. He will be missed by all who knew him. George was a devoted husband to his wife of 42 years, Colleen, and lived a life marked by professional success, community service, philanthropy, and capacity building, especially for the three organizations closest to his heart - the Sandy Library, the Sunshine Division and Willamette University. He was just as comfortable in the Boardroom as he was in the weekly gathering of his friends known affectionately as the "Beer Boys."

George was 1954 graduate of Franklin High School, where he was inducted into the Order of the Kite in 2023. He attended Willamette University, graduating with a degree in economics in 1958. While at Willamette, he was a freshman glee formation leader for four years, and a member of Beta Theta Pi, where he was voted outstanding freshman and senior. After basic military training in California, George went on to serve in the Oregon National Guard through 1962. Following in his mother's footsteps, he went into media, first selling advertising for the Tigard (OR) Times. In 1960, he married Joanne McGilvra. They had two sons, Brian and Mark. After earning an MBA from the University of Oregon in 1963, George became general manager for the Times Publications in Forest Grove, Oregon.

In 1970, he and the family moved to Chicago, where he became president of Pioneer Press, a group of seventeen suburban Chicago newspapers then owned by Time Inc. After Chicago, George moved to Northern Virginia and became publisher of The Washington Star in D.C. from 1978 to 1981, and then relocated to New York City to work for Time Inc., where he was responsible for the production of several monthly magazines, including Life and Fortune. He married Colleen Mueller in 1982. The last decade of his career was spent in California as president of Lesher Communications in Contra Costa County (1985-91) and then of the San Gabriel Valley Publishing Company in Los Angeles (1991-94).

Beginning in 1989, George served on Willamette University's Board of Trustees and in that capacity became particularly involved in supporting the university's Atkinson Graduate School of Management, chairing both the school's advisory council and Trustee oversight committee for many years. In addition, he and Colleen have been benefactors of Willamette's Hallie Ford Museum of Art since its founding in 1998 and, among other gifts, have endowed a fund to support the acquisition of contemporary Native American weaving arts.

In 1994, George and Colleen retired to Sandy, Oregon to their beloved home, the Lodge on Cedar Creek overlooking Cedar Creek. The house's two-story "lodge room" was one of George's favorite places. Especially in recent years, he spent countless hours enjoying the views of the home's gardens out of the windows, and his collection of Northwest Coast masks, carvings, and prints displayed throughout the room. Over the course of decades, George and Colleen built a substantial and important collection of contemporary Northwest Coast Native American art that they recently donated to Willamette's Hallie Ford Museum of Art.

An avid newspaper reader, having spent his career in the publishing business, he would wait expectantly each morning for the day's newspapers to arrive and then fully read each section--often pulling tear sheets of articles or advertisements that he thought would be of interest to colleagues or friends. George could frequently be found tending the barbeque grill, whether for dinner with Colleen or a gathering of friends and family for one of their Apple Squeeze events. He appreciated the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, commenting regularly on whether Mt Hood was "out" that day. One of his favorite places to visit was Roads End on the Oregon coast where the family has had a beach house since his childhood.

George devoted his life to serving the communities where he lived and worked. While working in Washington, D.C., he volunteered at the Washington, D.C Community Foundation and the Washington, DC Cultural Alliance-where, under his leadership, the Alliance established the first half-price ticket booth in D.C. Later, while living in California, he served the Contra Costa Taxpayers Association, the California Newspaper Publishers Association, and the United Way. After retiring to Oregon, he contributed time and treasure to the Sandy River Basin Watershed Council and the Sandy Main Street Project, a downtown revitalization initiative, as well as the Sandy Library--where he was instrumental in the 2008 the voter-supported creation of a service district providing dedicated property tax revenue to support libraries in Clackamas County. In 2008, he was named Citizen of the Year by the Sandy Chamber of Commerce. A winner of multiple awards throughout his life, George never sought out the limelight, preferring to rest on knowing that he was making a difference, impacting the organizations with which he was associated, and the individuals they served.

George carried on his mother's tradition of service to the Portland Police Bureau's Sunshine Division, a charitable organization providing emergency food and clothing relief, serving on its Board of Directors for over 20 years, including chairing the Board. He remained a member of the organization's finance committee until his death. He particularly enjoyed pack nights packing holiday food boxes. He told stories about conducting fundraisers for the Sunshine Division in high school with the help of sisters Lory Ann Burns and Martha Hanson.

George is survived by his wife, Colleen Mueller Hoyt of Sandy, Oregon, and sons, Brian S. Hoyt of Oakmont, Pennsylvania and Mark C. Hoyt of Salem, Oregon. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Lorcy Ann Burns and Martha Roean Hanson.

Per Helge Tonning
June 26, 1932–November 3, 2023

Per Helge Tonning, 91, was born on June 26, 1932, in Stryn, Norway. He recently passed away on November 3, 2023, at Swedish Hospital in Issaquah. Per attended Firda Gymnas (high school) in Sandane, Norway, and later went on to study at Willamette University. He worked for St. Peter Hospital. 

'59

Louis Donald "Don" Williams
December 21, 1936–November 1, 2024

Don Williams, class of 59, was member of Beta Theta Pi, played freshman basketball and was on the golf team. He was a double major in Math and Physics, and was Senior Scholar in the Physics department.

He attended the University of Washington on an AEC fellowship and started his career as a radiation monitor for General Electric at Hanford. He was later employed by Battelle Memorial Institute and was involved in a variety of reactor experiments. At the time of his retirement in 1995, he was Director of Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Carolyn (Miller Williams (class of 59), his daughter Diana (class of 84) and his son Michael (class of 86) and 6 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

James Hallisy
July 13, 1937–October 9, 2024

James (Jim) Hallisy was born on July 13, 1937, in Richmond, California to Edward and Mildred Hallisy. He died on September 10, 2024, after a valiant battle against cancer.

Jim spent his early childhood in Crocket, California before his family moved to Salem. Jim was the eldest of three children. He is survived by his sister Cheryl and predeceased by his sister Marilyn.

After graduating from Salem High School, Jim attended Willamette University and earned a bachelor’s degree in economics. He worked his entire career in the insurance industry as a commercial underwriter, primarily with State Farm, from which he retired in 1999.

After retiring, Jim volunteered many years for Meals on Wheels. He enjoyed gardening and devoted countless hours to genealogy research. Jim had a passion for classic cars and owned several over the years. He loved driving them all around town, cranking up his classic oldies music. He had a great love of classic music, especially from the 50s and could play the piano by ear. Jim was also a big Oregon Ducks fan (where both of his children graduated from).

Jim is survived by his wife of 34 years Marilyn (Geri), his children Lisa and Michael from his first marriage to Mary Ann (Hallisy) Clott, grandchildren Brandon, Justin, Ryan and Caitlin, and two great-grandchildren Siena and Sadie.

Herbert Juran
April 29, 1937–September 28, 2024

Herb Juran, a beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on September 28th, with his wife by his side. He lived a life filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Born in Moscow, Idaho, Herb moved to Salem in the late 1940s. He attended Salem High School, before transferring to South Salem High School, proudly graduating in its first class in 1955. As the star quarterback, Herb led South Salem to a State Championship in 1954. His athletic talent earned him a full scholarship to the University of Oregon, where he played football for one year before transferring to Willamette University, graduating in 1959.

After college, Herb served in the Air National Guard and began a successful career at US Bank, specializing in automobile dealership financing. He dedicated 21 years to the bank, ultimately serving as Vice President of Marketing. In 1982, he joined Delon Auto Dealership as part owner, Vice President, and General Manager, where he made a significant impact for 25 years.

Beyond his professional achievements, Herb was passionate about collecting and restoring classic farm tractors, especially John Deere. He was known for his incredible handiwork, tackling any job with skill and determination. An avid runner, skier, and dancer in his youth, Herb cherished the active lifestyle he shared with his family.

Many will remember Herb from his time living in a turn of the century farmhouse on Fairmount Hill, but it was on a hobby farm with a menagerie of animals where he spent the last 35 years. He is survived by his loving wife, Maryann; his children, Jennifer, Jeff, and Jessica; as well as many friends and family members who will deeply miss him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hank and Gladys, and his sister, Shirley Mawicke.

’61

Geranna "Geri" (Stevens) Fleming
December 29, 1938–August 23, 2024

Geranna "Geri" passed away August 23, 2024 in Tigard, Oregon.

She was born in Coquille, OR to Stanton and Eva Stevens. She grew up on the family farm outside of Myrtle Point. She loved all animals and enjoyed raising horses and cows as well as being involved in 4-H.

In addition to her degree from Willamette, she earned a Masters Degree from University of Portland. Her careers in Portland were as a social worker and legal secretary.

She loved riding her horse, Manley, and was an expert horsewoman. She almost always had a cat and loved all the cats at the barn where Manley stayed. Also, she was a dedicated volunteer for the Nature Conservancy's property, Camassia in West Linn.

As a poet, she had a book of her poems published, "Starting with Coquille", as well as having poems published in the book, "Stone City I, Poems by Oregon Poets", and many other publications. Geri loved hiking and walking - her beloved Mt. Tabor, Camassia and neighborhood's she lived in both Portland and Lake Oswego.

She was predeceased by her brother, Robert W. Stevens (Willamette class of '58) and her long time love, James Fleming of Lake Oswego. She is survived by her niece, Ruth Stevens Hilborn (Greg), great nephews, Alex Hilborn (Megan) and Benjamin Hilborn; her nephew, Paul Stevens (Pat), great niece, Ashley Stevens Deasy (Scott) as well as several cousins. Also, surviving her are Jim's son, Collin Fleming (Kim Factor), and daughter, Bryn Fleming.

Patricia Baker-Sevcik
January 23, 1939–September 8, 2023

Patricia “Pat” Anne Laughlin Baker-Sevcik was born in Battle Ground, Washington, on Jan. 23, 1939, to parents Doris Randall and Robert Laughlin. She passed away on Sept. 8, 2023. Preceding her in death were her sister, Nancy Vaughan; brother, Bob Laughlin, of Vancouver; Washington; daughter, Myriam Lanther Baker Motter, of Conifer, Colorado; and stepson, Eric W. Sevcik of Beaverton, Oregon. She is survived by her husband, James “Jim” R. Sevcik, McMinnville, Oregon; stepdaughter, Martha C. Sevcik, of Beaverton, Oregon; grandson, Chase Baker; granddaughter-in-law, Rachelle Baker, of Lakewood, Colorado; granddaughter Roslyn Baker, of Boulder, Colorado; niece, Cindy Laughlin, of Scottsdale, Arizona; niece, Robin Koos, of Albany, Oregon; and adopted son, William Alex Noland, of San Francisco, California. Pat’s early years were on a dairy farm in Battle Ground. She was active in the youth group at the local church. She attended Battle Ground High School, graduating in 1957. Pat received an associate’s degree from Clark College in Vancouver, Washington, in 1959. She transferred to Willamette University in Salem, Oregon. Pat majored in literature and English with plans to teach at the secondary level. Pat and George Franklin Baker married during their senior year at Willamette University. Their daughter, Myriam Baker, was born in Salem in 1962. Pat and George Baker divorced soon after, and Pat began her teaching career in Vernonia, Oregon, from 1961 to 1963.

’63

Martha Jane Boyer Saunders
March 11, 1941–September 16, 2023

"Martha Jane Boyer Saunders of Sun City West, AZ passed away September 16, 2023, surrounded by her family. She was 82. Martha was born to the late Don and Estella Boyer, April 11, 1941, in Prairie City, Oregon. She loved growing up on the ranch, and the Boyer family was well known by all in John Day, Oregon for their contributions to the community. Martha went on to earn the crown of Pendleton Roundup Queen in 1960 and attended Willamette University. Beginning a career in San Francisco in 1966, she married the late Kevin T. Murphy and started a family of her own. By way of Seattle Washington, they eventually moved to Atlanta, Georgia where they raised their three children Brian, Molly, and Matthew.

She lived for her children’s happiness and success and modeled the selfless love they each bring to their families today. Brian, his wife Christie, and their two children Kendall and Braeden. Molly, husband Troy, and their three children Hanna, Greta, and Michael; Matthew, wife Kelli, and their two children Morgan and Abby. Moving back to Oregon in 2003 and marrying Ted E. Saunders, the two eventually settled in Sun City West, Arizona. Martha developed a deep and loving relationship with her new larger family that included Ted’s son Eric and his wife Amanda, along with their children Cora and Cooper. Arizona also brought dear friends whom she valued as family. Love defined Martha. Her heart was in serving others and her family with true care for each person in her life. Her ongoing joy in life was always her family who all knew her as Nana. All carry forward her caring spirit and love for family and friends. They remain blessed by her and will forever miss their Nana. Everyone who knew her, loved her. But more defining was the way she loved each of them."

'64

Susan Vigil
December 29, 1941–August 1, 2024

Susan Elaine Vigil passed away on August 1, 2024, holding hands with her husband after a brave battle with ovarian cancer.

Born December 29, 1941, in Astoria, Oregon, Susan was the daughter of Henry and Beatrice Sorick who were greatly blessed by the gift of her adoption. The family moved from Astoria to Newburg, Oregon where she attended elementary school then later to Salem, Oregon as her father took a position in the Oregon State Department of Education.

Susan grew up an only child until her senior year in high school when her family welcomed Shireen Kotwal Mehta, an exchange student from Karachi, Pakistan. Their friendship grew into a sisterhood that lasted the remainder of her life. After graduating from North Salem High school in 1960, she attended Willamette University, where she majored in English and was a member of the Delta Gamma sorority. The daughter of two educators, Susan realized that she too wanted to pursue a career in education, obtaining her teaching certification from Western Oregon University in 1964.

While on a post-graduation trip to Seattle, Susan was invited to dinner at the home of family friends. There she met a handsome, aspiring architect named Ronald Vigil. Ron was a recently divorced father of three small children (Steve, Dawn and Mike) and informed Susan that he would never marry again. Six months later Susan and Ronald were engaged and on February 18, 1965, they were married. In 1966 the couple welcomed a son Peter, and in 1969 a daughter, Sara. Susan primarily taught elementary age children in the Bellevue School District as well as at Seattle Country Day School. During her summers, she worked towards receiving a masters equivalency in education at Seattle Pacific University.

Susan's life was a testament to her deep Christian faith, enjoying active involvement in many church communities including Sandpoint United Methodist Church, Lakeview Free Methodist Church, and University Presbyterian Church. She found great joy singing with the church choir, teaching Sunday School and was a dedicated member and teacher of Bible Study Fellowship for over 20 years. Susan enjoyed reading, knitting, gardening and was a talented calligrapher who wrote everything including grocery lists, school notes, and checks with style and flair. She loved crossword puzzles and was a gifted seamstress. Her talents also extended to the kitchen, where she created warm family memories with her delicious meals. Susan was a devoted sports fan, passionately following the Mariners, Seahawks, and Huskies. Her enthusiasm for the Seahawks was so great that she shared season tickets with her friend Billie for many years, enjoying countless games together.

Above all, Susan's greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, who took immense pride in attending endless sporting events, concerts, and plays featuring her children and grandchildren. Susan is survived by her husband of 59 years, Ronald Vigil, children Peter (Leslie) Vigil, Sara (Andy) Tempelis, stepchildren Steve Vigil, Dawn (Matt) Daniels and Mike (Leigh) Vigil, grandchildren Lindsey, Josh, Andy, Mallory, Ian, Riley, Mackenzie, Alaina, Julia and Henry, great-grandchildren Noah, Delaney, Landon, Holly, Kyle and Perrie.

’65

Dale Bunse
February 4, 1939–November 25, 2023

Dale Laverne Bunse passed away on November 25th, 2023. He was born in Montana, in February 1939, the middle child between brothers Don and Richard – the first of Geneva Sherseth and Clayton Bunse’s sons to be born in a “hospital” and the last to be born in Montana.

Over the years, all three would become artists. After spending the war years in the San Francisco Bay Area, the family relocated to Oregon and Dale attended Salem schools and then Willamette University. Dale studied painting and ceramics and spoke with great admiration for his professors, especially Carl Hall and Dr. Cameron Paulin.

He met his former wife Loie van Loben Sels at Willamette and they both then attended Arizona State University. After daughter Meta was born, Dale’s first job as an art instructor was at Maryville College in Tennessee. Dale and Loie had their son Garth before returning to the West where Dale taught art for nearly 30 years at Columbia Community College in California’s Sierra foothills. He loved the creative process and creative people and helping students discover art. He was a prolific painter and potter and founded the Clayton Gallery in Jamestown where he often hosted other artists’ shows.

Dale’s travels throughout the Western US, and trips to Europe, Mexico, South America, China, and Uzbekistan infused his teaching and his art and he enjoyed bringing those experiences, cultures, and environments into his work.

For the past 25 years Dale lived in cooler, greener Oregon. Even after retiring, he did not stop painting, sketching, throwing pots, or teaching. He volunteered many hours at the Willamette Art Center in Salem, where he could be “the old guy who knows stuff!” In Independence, he joined the River Gallery, collaborating on projects and life drawing and gallery shows with his brother Richard and dozens of other talented artists. Dale maintained a studio and home with his love, Laurie Chambreau. Throughout, he drew inspiration and joy from the rolling hills of the Willamette valley and its surrounding mountains and forests. For him, and those who went along for the ride, every bend of the road and each curve of the hill was a landscape waiting to be painted.

A memorial is planned for January 26, 2024, at the River Gallery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Willamette Art Center, or make a local artist’s day and buy art!

'66

'67

Carmy Mausten Jr.
December 30, 1994–September 23, 2024

Carmy Leonard Mausten Jr. passed away peacefully on September 23, 2024 after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Carmy Jr. was born in Jamestown, North Dakota to the late Carmy Sr. and Josephine Mausten in 1944. His brother Harold was born two years later. The family soon moved to Kennewick, Washington where Carmy developed a love of sports. While attending Kennewick High School he lettered in both baseball and football and developed a deep passion for golf.

In addition to sports, Carmy honed his leadership skills and served as Class President and Student Body Treasurer. Upon graduating in 1963, Carmy was awarded a full scholarship to Willamette University in Salem, Oregon for both Baseball and Football. While attending, he lettered in both sports all four years and served in leadership roles for his Fraternity, Phi Delta Theta and the Willamette Student Body.

Upon graduation in 1967 with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Carmy joined the United States Army Reserve and committed to six years of service. After serving his active duty, Carmy began his career with Bank Of America in Los Angeles, CA. On a blind date arranged by a friend, Carmy met Susan Hoy, a college student at UCLA . As the relationship grew stronger and after her graduation in 1969, Carmy and Susan were married in Anaheim, California. Together, they were blessed with four wonderful children, Jennifer, Carmy III , Elizabeth and Daniel. The family moved throughout the state of California as Carmy’s career advanced. During this time, he also completed a graduate program in Banking at Southern Methodist University. His knowledge of banking and leadership skills helped him excel in various executive positions throughout his successful 45 year career with Bank Of America. In retirement, Carmy continued his love of golf and played often as a member of Crow Canyon Country Club. He also enjoyed watching his grandchildren’s love of sports grow.

Carmy was a loving husband, father, grandfather and a loyal boss and friend. Few people possess the considerate and loving heart that he had and even fewer are willing to give so much of themselves. Carmy Jr. will be deeply missed by Susan (wife of 55 years), his children Jennifer (Don Pollnow) Carmy III (Lisa) and Daniel (Victoria); his four grandchildren Maverick, Carmy IV, Jameson and Grace and his brother, Harold Mausten (TJ). He was predeceased by his daughter Elizabeth.

’70

Michael Ronald Stebbins
September 20, 1948–March 11, 2023

Michael Roland Stebbins, 74, died at home in North Bend, Oregon, on March 11, 2023, but only after his family finished singing his favorite John Prine and Roger Miller songs. Mike departed as he liked to live, hosting a raucous crew near a blazing fire with superb food and music.

A memorial will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023, at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 2250 16th Street in North Bend, followed by a reception from 4:30-8:00 p.m. at Black Market Gourmet, 495 Central Avenue in Coos Bay.

Steady, always with a plan, a sense of purpose, and leather work gloves in his pickup, Mike was a raconteur and romantic who believed in family and the dignity of the individual. He frequently wore suits to children's sporting events. A trial lawyer representing Coos County's injured workers by day, there was no time to change clothes.

Born in Seattle, Washington on September 20, 1948, to Bud, a WWII bomber pilot turned accountant, and Frances, a nurse. Mike attended Coos Catholic and North Bend High School, graduating in 1966. A lifelong supporter of Bulldog athletics, Mike played on both sides of the ball for North Bend's football team in the fall, wrestled in the winter, and played catcher on the baseball team in the spring.

Mike was a Willamette University Sigma Chi fraternity member and proud Bearcat. He played on the school's first soccer team but never got around to graduating. After departing Willamette for reasons explained only in stories too marvelous to confirm, he graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh in 1971 with a History degree.

In December 1971, at Slim Otto's bar in Appleton, Wisconsin, sweaty and a few beers deep from celebrating a city league basketball win, Mike happened upon Mary Lou Welhouse, fresh out of the convent and nearly a nun. Mike inquired. Mary Lou demurred. Ever undeterred, he persevered. A notoriously slow decision-maker throughout life, it took Mike three months to ask Mary Lou to marry him. She said, "No." After getting married on July 22, 1972, at St. Aloysius Church in Kaukauna, Wisconsin, they left for Oregon in a yellow Ford Mustang packed with camping gear.

By welding fireplace parts and installing pool tables Mike paid his way through night school at the Northwestern College of Law at Lewis & Clark. He also worked for the National Lawyers Guild Prison Project in Portland before and after passing the bar, but ultimately, he couldn't resist the pull of the South Coast.

Mike practiced law in North Bend for 46 years, starting in 1975. With a window looking out into the lingerie section of the Emporium department store, the law firm Hayner, Waring & Stebbins dabbled in various areas of law and offered wills for $50 from their office at Pony Village Mall. The firm evolved into Stebbins & Coffey. Mike and his law partner, Jim Coffey, worked together for 37 years and developed a reputation as the preeminent firm serving individuals and local governments on the Southern Oregon Coast. Their former office on California Street closed in 2022 and is slated to become a visitor center for the City of North Bend. A spirited litigator throughout his career, Mike never ceased being inspired by the people he represented in Coos County. He was proud to obtain millions in compensation for "people that work in the woods and on the water."

Mike has yet to really retire. He loved mentoring young lawyers and continued to take phone calls to discuss cases even in his final weeks.

Mary Lou and Mike raised six children in North Bend. He loved books, hearing all the filthy jokes his son Mac had on offer, and completing the New York Times crossword - but only Thursday through Sunday, otherwise "too easy," so please don't waste his time. A true coastal boy, Mike fished, hunted, and played golf with his friends whenever possible. He had a decent approach game.

Mike loved holding court by the fire pit in his backyard or with passing friends while sitting in his worn leather chair facing Simpson Avenue in the "old garage." He officiated the wedding of one friend he met in this manner. He could captivate any audience with a story and loved dispensing advice, solicited or otherwise. Still, his most incredible skill was making others feel heard.

Through the years, Mike coached hundreds of South Coast kids on soccer, basketball, and softball teams. He served in the National Guard for 6 years and on the boards for St. Catherine's Nursing Home and the North Bend Community Scholarship Fund. He was barred from teaching catechism class in the 1980s for pushing the boundaries of church doctrine but served on the Parish Council anyway.

Mike is survived by his wife, Mary Lou; their children, Kate (Jeremy) Stinson, Franky (Ken) Collins, Jane Stebbins, Mac (Haylee) Stebbins, Hank (Emily) Stebbins, and Duke (Kailee) Stebbins. In addition, he is survived by his brother, Dale (Donna) Stebbins; and sisters, Jean (Tom) McKnight and Kathi (Howard) Hintz, and their children, all of whom held a special place in Mike's heart.

’71

Alison Daines Brown
March 21, 1949–February 13, 2023

Alison was born on March 21st, 1949 in Boise, Idaho to Gordon Daines and Lucy Cutler Daines. She was the youngest of three children born to the couple, which included Joseph Gordon (Pete) Daines of Boise, Idaho and Holly Daines Underwood of Wenatchee, Washington.

Alison attended schools in Boise and graduated from Borah High School in 1967. She attended Willamette University and received a degree in Political Science. In college, she became a member of the Chi Omega sorority. While there she made and maintained friendships that lasted the rest of her life. A pattern that was to be repeated over and over throughout her lifetime. Although she would have a lifelong love of politics her true passion lay in helping students from all walks of life. In 1976 she received her master's degree in Speech Pathology from Portland State University. Alison was hired as a Speech Pathologist for the Hood River County School District in 1977. She was noted for her warmth, generosity, and compassion which she used to grow working and personal friendships that lasted well past her 30-year career.

She was also known by her family to stay up well into the night creating individualized lessons for each of her many students. Alison and her husband, Ross Allen Brown, were married in Boise on November 15th, 1980. Their son, Ben, was born in 1982, followed by their daughter, Kaitlin, in 1986. Over the course of their 42-year marriage, Ross and Alison enjoyed watching their children participate in their various community ed sports from basketball to swim team. There were also Thanksgiving trips to Boise to see family and a 25-year tradition of camping at Lost Lake every Labor Day weekend.

Alison is survived by her husband of 42 years, Ross, and her two children, Benjamin Robert Brown and Kaitlin Daines Brown, as well as Ben’s wife Jena Flatau, and their child Nora Grace Flatau-Brown. She is also survived by her brother Gordon and his wife Susan, and sister Holly and her husband Todd as well as too many friends to count. In lieu of flowers donations for a memorial bench can be made care of Anderson’s Tribute Center or to the SMART reading program of Hood River County Schools where Alison was involved and loved to read.

’72

Robin Duggan
January 29, 1950–March 16, 2024

Robin, a Chi Omega, was a resident of Mountain View, California, and is survived by her husband of fifty years, Kevin Duggan, and her two children, Julie Duggan Pieron, and Andrew Duggan. She is also survived by her sister, Linda Walker Kelly 69’, her niece Sarah Kelly Kaster ‘98, and her nephew Tyler Kelly ‘03.

Craig Henry Wisti
February 28, 1950–March 8, 2023

Craig Henry Wisti was born and raised in North Bend. Craig’s parents were George A. Wisti and Erros M. Wisti.

Craig attended Willamette University, where he graduated with a degree in biology in 1972. After two years of graduate school, he found his ideal job working with young people in an educational setting. Craig loved working with his students, and enjoyed helping them achieve more than they thought they could. He was a firm, but caring teacher. He received various teaching awards.

Craig is survived by his loving wife, Sara; his children, Ann and Erick (Alisha); grandchildren, Emma and Henry; and brothers, Bob and John (Joani) Wisti.

’75

Michael B Batlan
January 9, 1953–March 20, 2024

Michael Brant Batlan was born on January 9, 1953, in New York City, to Richard S. Batlan and Suzanne Herman Halsey. He spent his childhood on Long Island, moving to the Bay Area as a young teen, ultimately graduating from Santa Monica High School, before moving to Salem, Oregon to attend Willamette University in 1971.

Michael’s years at Willamette provided him with the sound underpinnings of a happy life: a good education, football, and most importantly, lifelong friends—many of whom became like family. Graduating with an MBA in 1982 (as it turns out, in the same ceremony where his future wife Kathy would receive her JD), Michael served many years as a federal bankruptcy trustee and state court appointed receiver. He stepped in and solved problems, learning anew about each business as it came.

His avocation, however, was officiating football, starting while he was still an undergraduate, and continuing through years working games for high school, small college, the Pac-10, and the Pac-12, coming off the field as a referee in 2016. Still devoted to the game, he worked in the Pac-12 Command Center in San Francisco, coordinating with Instant Replay. Football gave him more friends to cherish, more problems to solve, and more experiences to enjoy.

On March 20, 2024, we lost the best husband, father, grandfather, uncle, son, and brother. Michael adored his daughters Celia (Russ) and Libby (Ramin), on whom he imparted his life’s wisdom and sense of humor, whether it was during untold hours on volleyball courts, on bike rides through backroads in the Willamette Valley, or on one of many family vacations. He cherished his grandchildren Graham, Jonah, Gillian, and Isabel; and he loved his nephew Aaron, his wife Sarah, and their children Madeline, Miles, and Grayson. Michael was predeceased by his parents and his sister Patricia and is survived by his sister Emily.

’77

Elizabeth Rose Carey
February 11, 1955–June 14, 2023

Beth was born February 11, 1955, at Good Samaritan Hospital, Corvallis Oregon. She died of cancer on June 14, 2023, at home in Vancouver Washington with husband Bob & daughter Carrie at her side.

Beth was raised on a grass seed farm in Halsey Oregon, with Margaret Carey (mother), Bob Carey (father), Bill Carey (brother). She graduated from Central Linn High School in 1974 and attended Willamette University where she received a bachelor’s degrees in music performance and early childhood education in 1977. She received her Master of Music at the University of Portland in 1996. Beth began her career in Port Orford, Oregon in 1977, teaching music at elementary and middle schools. In 1979, she relocated to Albany, Oregon and ran a Yamaha music school until 1987, at which time she moved to Portland, Oregon and worked at a Yamaha music school in Lake Oswego. She joined the Portland Opera and the Opera Players, where she was able to share her love of music at area schools and community events. She met Bob Lawson in June 1988, and after a short courtship they were married on December 17, 1988. They moved to Vancouver, Washington where she taught music for the Vancouver School District from 1990 until 2014. On October 14, 1993, Carrie Elizabeth Lawson completed the family.

Beth loved singing and teaching. She sang in many productions and was a soloist in church. Beth loved classical, opera and jazz. Her album in 2019 titled Liebe und Leben: Love and Life contains songs following a woman’s life, the first set is classical followed by jazz songs with the same theme. In January 2023 she recorded 12 classical church songs arranged by Brenda Portman, with Martin Ellis and Linda Bergman. These music videos and more will be available on YouTube @ElizabethCareyLawson. She was a member of The Frustrated Maestros, a musical group with Family Motor Coach association. She sang and played both the keyboard and guitar at the rallies. She first met this group in Albany and with the motorhome she and Bob were able to attend rallies in Indio California, Tucson Arizona, and Minot North Dakota. Beth spent the last week before her death singing in a rally in Albany Oregon.

Beth is survived by her husband Robert L. Lawson Jr., her brother Will Carey and her daughter Carrie Elizabeth Lawson. Her funeral was held on August 19, 2023, at St Luke’s San Lucas in Vancouver, Washington.

’79

John Bondurant
November 26, 1956–March 20, 2024

John Wilson Bondurant passed away in Portland, Ore. on March 20, 2024, at the age of 67.

John was born on Nov. 26, 1956, in Leavenworth, Kan., to Marjorie Wilson and John Bondurant. He spent his childhood in NE Portland, attending Beaumont Elementary school and Grant High School (class of 75). He continued his education at Willamette University (class of 79) and the Tulane University School of Law (class of 84). In 1985, John joined the office of The District Attorney of Jackson County, Oregon, eventually rising to Chief Deputy. He also worked in the Division of Finance and Corporate Securities for the State of Oregon. John loved travel and outdoor adventures. Hiking and camping, especially in and through our National Parks, was a favorite. He also had a great fondness for the Bavarian region of Germany, where he attended the University of Munich. He was a fan of the Los Angeles Rams, Portland Trailblazers, Oregon State Beavers and especially the Portland Thorns. He was always hopeful that Portland would land a Major League Baseball franchise. John was predeceased by his brother, Edward. He is survived by his sister, Maggie (Jeff) Smith; nephews, Colin and Drew Smith; niece, Samantha (Jake) Bondurant Wease; and great-nephew, Carter. He will be missed by family and friends across the globe.

’80

Mary Christine Beal
May 14, 1957–April 13, 2023

Mary, 65, died at McKenzie Manor Memory Care in Eugene on April 13, 2023 after a two year struggle with her health following a debilitating stroke. Mary was born in Salem, Oregon, the youngest of four children of parents Donna Beal and Paul Beal. She graduated from North High, briefly attended Willamette University while living on the North Fork of the Santiam River in the family cabin and then attended UCLA in Video Production and got her doctorate from OSU.

James Bryan Fallon
September 9, 1957–January 7, 2023

James Bryan Fallon was born September 9, 1957 in Salem, Oregon to Nancy (Barton) Fallon and Kenneth Fallon. When he was young, his family moved to Lincoln City, where he grew up. Jim graduated from Taft High School as salutatorian in 1975. He went on to earn a B.A. in Physics, from Willamette University in Salem, a B.S. in Petroleum Engineering from Stanford University in Palo Alto, California and an MBA in Finance and Strategic Planning, from The Wharton School, at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. In junior high, Jim made his choice to serve God at Boring convention. He remained true to that choice throughout his lifetime. This focus on trying to do God’s will brought wonderful joy and many precious moments into his life. In 1976 Jim met Karin. They both were attending Willamette University and would go to every gospel meeting they could find from Portland to Eugene, after all, Jim had a car! After graduation, Karin got a job teaching at Creswell High School and Jim went on to Stanford. After he graduated (with distinction) they got married on June 28, 1980, in Dorena Oregon. Jim’s first job was for Unocal Corporation, working as a Petroleum Engineer in Santa Rosa. After three years Jim and Karin were transferred to Manila, Philippines where he continued his work for another three years. Both in Santa Rosa and in Manila, Jim and Karin treasured times with friends, family, and with their ministers who were spreading the Gospel story. Jim and Karin enjoyed traveling, walking, eating, reading, and visiting. Jim was the master of beautiful spreadsheets and organization. He seemed to be able to get a grasp on the big picture and make sure things made good sense.

'81

Rex Pickett
June 14, 1958–October 1, 2024

Rex Eugene Pickett, 66, was welcomed into the arms of his Heavenly Father on the afternoon of Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at his home in Draper, Utah.

Born on Flag Day, June 14, 1958, at St. Luke's Hospital in Boise, Idaho, to Dr. Hal Eugene and Patricia Anne Pickett, Rex was the eldest of five siblings. Together, they grew up enjoying the beauty of Idaho and the great outdoors. As soon as he was able, Rex spent his summers working on the Pickett Sheep and Cattle Ranch in Oakley, Idaho, which his family had settled in 1882. There, he learned the ranching values of hard work, dedication, and the joy of good food, while embracing the wide-open plains and his family's small-town roots.

In middle school, Rex discovered a passion for football, and by his senior year of high school, he had earned All-City Defensive Honors as a linebacker. His talent secured him a starting position on the All-Southern Idaho Conference 2nd Team champions. In addition to his football success, Rex was a state champion in the 400-meter dash and a proud member of the Boy Scouts of America, achieving the esteemed rank of Eagle Scout.

Rex graduated from Borah High School in 1977 and attended the College of Idaho on an academic and athletic scholarship. When the college canceled its football program after his first season, Rex transferred to Willamette University in Salem, Oregon, where he completed his education through a dual program with Stanford University. He continued playing football, served as Chapter President of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and graduated in 1981 with a B.S. in Mathematics and Natural Sciences.

’99

Christopher Zahniser
April 17, 1977–October 1, 2023 

Christopher “Z” Zahniser died suddenly Sunday, October 1st, 2023 at his Forest Grove home. He was 46 years old. Cause of death was determined to have been an aortic aneurysm and cardiac tamponade.

Chris was known for being determined and passionate. A 23-year employee of Intel, he was one of the rare technicians who made the jump to engineering. Working in Metals and Life Safety, Chris was a consummate problem solver who would doggedly focus on problems until they were resolved. He enjoyed his most recent position as a Life Safety Engineer; he happily learned many new skills to support his engineering team.

At home, he was enthusiastic about many hobbies, most famously Star Wars. He enjoyed running Star Wars roleplaying games for his friends and family, as well as being a player in other’s games. He loved to create original costumes for cosplay and was a regular attendee of Portland’s Rose City Comic Con. This year, he achieved a long-held goal and attended San Diego Comic Con for the first time with his family.

In addition to the costuming arts, Chris was passionate about martial arts. Chris studied Kempo karate and Wu Shi Dao under Masters Uriel Villa and Warren Allen, respectively. This year he achieved his 3rd degree black belts in both arts. For the last two years, Chris had been teaching Kempo karate out of his home to close friends. Always looking for more things to learn, Chris recently enrolled in a local Jiu-Jitsu school.

Chris will be loved and missed by many. He is preceded in death by his mother, Connie and aunt, Lynda, and father figure, Howard. He is survived by his partner-in-crime of 15 years, Sarah Zahniser; their sons, Zack and Cai; his father and step-mother, Stephen and Paula of Boise, ID; his aunts, Mary Ellen Mueller of Sacramento, CA and Val Sewald of Kihei, HI; his uncle and aunt, Patrick and Deb Puckett of Weldon, CA; his sister, Jessica of Keizer, OR; his sister and brother-in-law, Amy and Rick Harris also of Keizer, OR; his sister in spirit and her husband, Doris and Kenny Carlisle of CA; his nephews, Jake and Liam; and his nieces, Echo and Elysia.

A memorial service will be held on November 9th from 4 pm-9 pm at McMenamin’s Cornelius Pass Roadhouse.