Karla Jean Lillquist, loving sister, wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great grandmother and friend, died peacefully on October 24, 2020.

Karla lived a long, rich life. She was a kind, supportive, hard-working, strong-willed, positive, and independent person who was the family “glue.”

Karla was born January 12, 1935 to Art and Erma Ring in LaConner, Washington. She grew up bossing around her older brother John on a Skagit Flats farm just outside LaConner, where she loved working with her dad and his dairy cows.

After graduating from LaConner High School in 1953, she enrolled at Washington State University. Her college days were short-lived, though, as she had met and fallen in love with Les Lillquist the previous summer. Karla and Les were married at Salem Lutheran Church in Mt. Vernon, Washington in August 1954, thus beginning 58 years of loving marriage.

She and Les made their first home in Coulee City, Washington where Karla was soon a mother when Edwin came along in 1955. Ed was followed by Victor in 1957 and Karl in 1961. Together with Les, she created a loving home for their sons and friends. Karla was the consummate mother who spent hours cooking and baking for three growing boys. She was fully supportive of her boys’ activities– from hunting to horses to Scouts. After retirement, she and Les returned to her beloved Skagit Flats where they built a home on the family farm.

Karla was a devout Lutheran. She was confirmed at Bethel Lutheran Church in Coulee City and was later a member of Faith Lutheran in Oroville, Washington and Fir-Conway Lutheran in Conway, Washington. She loved the beauty of the world and was able to capture that beauty through art, first with oil painting and later with watercolors. Karla was as comfortable in the outdoors as in. To her final days, she loved the feel of the sun on her face. She enjoyed camping and snow skiing. She was a wonderful gardener who created beautiful flower beds everywhere she lived. She loved catching king salmon on the Skagit River and trout at Lost Lake, especially if she caught more and larger fish than Les! Swimming with her grandkids at Banks Lake and Bay View were a highlight as was digging her toes in the sand at Rosario Beach, where she vacationed with her family as a child.

In 2014, Karla was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and eventually moved into a dementia care facility. Even as her mental and physical capabilities declined she retained her sense of humor and her positive views on life, and was a favorite of the care givers.

Karla is survived by her brother, John (Berdean) of Burlington, Washington; sons, Ed (Jan) of Oroville and Karl (Nancy) of Ellensburg, Washington; six grandchildren, Jenny (Ben), Wayne, Kelty, Cade, Erik, and Jensen; two great grandchildren, Colter and Mesa and many lifelong friends.

She was preceded in death by parents, Art and Erma; husband, Les and son, Victor.

Funeral arrangements are being made by Kern Funeral Home in Mount Vernon. Because of the Coronavirus, the family will hold a small, private ceremony at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Fir-Conway Lutheran Church or Skagitonians to Preserve Farmland.

Bill Peterson, 97, of Oroville, Washington, passed away on October 16, 2020 at Extended Care in Tonasket. He was born in Lynn, Massachusetts on October 30, 1922 to William (Sr.) and Adria Peterson.

Bill’s family settled north of Ellisforde, Washington when he was seven-years-old, and he lived in the area for the rest of his life. Bill attended school in Ellisforde and Tonasket. As a child, he spent a year of his life bedridden with Rheumatic Fever. Fortunately, he recovered and flourished. At Tonasket High School, he was class president, quarterback of the football team, played basketball, competed in track and field and graduated in 1941.

Bill worked a variety of jobs in the years following high school. During World War II, he stayed home to help care for his ailing father. He had a strong sense of loyalty and the desire to always do the right thing was a guiding principle throughout his life.

Bill married Margaret Lund in 1947. They had three sons: Greg, Jeff and Roger. Bill was an excellent provider for his family. He planted a 10-acre apple orchard, worked full-time as an apple packing foreman at Oro Fruit Company and still found time to build his family a house, where he lived until the last few weeks of his life.

It was a difficult time for Bill and his sons when Margaret passed away suddenly in 1970. He married Nina Reese in 1973; they spent over 45 years together. Nina’s health deteriorated in her final years and Bill was her full time caretaker until she passed in 2019.

Bill enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, hunting, skiing and working in his orchard and garden. He had a curious mind, always seeking to learn new ideas and skills. He took up woodworking in his 70s, creating wooden bowls, Christmas decorations and replica Oro Fruit bins. Bill was a long-time member of the Ellisforde Church of the Brethren, where he served on the board, sang in the choir, helped maintain the pipe organ and performed many other duties.

Bill Peterson was, by all definitions, a truly good person who gave much more than he took, and the world is a better place because of him.

He is survived by son, Jeff (Adrienne) of Richland, Washington; Jeff’s daughter, Ellen; Greg’s sons Eliot and Daniel and Roger’s son, Andrew.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Adria and Hank; first wife, Margaret; second wife, Nina and sons Greg and Roger.

A celebration of life will be held at a future (post-pandemic) date. Contributions in Bill’s honor can be made to Okanogan County Transportation and Nutrition (octn.org) or the North Valley Hospital Foundation (nvhospital.org).

Okanogan County Crematory is in care of arrangements.

Ida Mae Hawkins, 97, of Oroville, Washington, died at home October 30, 2020. She was born in Seminole, Oklahoma to parents Jack and Narrie Biggs.

She was born and raised in Oklahoma and later married Verlin Hawkins in 1944 and they moved to California. In 1974, she moved with her husband and three children to Oroville. After her husband died in 1980, she continued working in the apple packing sheds until she retired.

Ida is survived by her children, Dan Hawkins, Ted Hawkins and Mike Hawkins, all of California; Phyllis St. Pierre, of Massachusetts; Janice, Jim, Joe and Anita Hawkins, all of Oroville; many grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Verlin Hawkins and son, Steve Hawkins.

The family had a private family graveside service at the Oroville Riverview Cemetery with Pastor Cody Humborg officiating.

Bergh Funeral Service & Crematory is in care of arrangements.

Philip Maurice Turner, 78, passed away at home November 1, 2020, surrounded by his loving wife and children. Philip was born December 2, 1941 in Tonasket, Washington.

He grew up in the Chesaw and Loomis areas which instilled in him a deep sense of love for the outdoors and a dedicated work ethic.

As a young man in the U.S. Army, he served as an MP and then as a Special Forces Medic in Vietnam. He had many careers, including being an officer in the Seattle Police Department, a skipper of crab fishing vessels in Alaska, and started a nut and fruit orchard in Northern Idaho. Later he owned and ran the family orchards in Loomis. He spent his retirement continuing to serve his country by volunteering with the American Legion Post #56.

Philip enjoyed and always made time for hunting, fishing and being outdoors. He took great pleasure in visiting friends and family, BS-ing and telling stories, puttering and tinkering, and tending the fire in his shop, carving intricate jewelry out of bone and antlers depicting big game, volunteering his time to support the elderly in his community and cultivating his prized elephant garlic and many trees and plants. Locals may even come across one of his nut trees growing in nooks and crannies throughout Okanogan County due to his deep desire to constantly plant trees.

Philip had many illnesses relating to his time in Vietnam; yet not one of them held him back from continuing to work hard and live life to its fullest. He was one of the strongest, bravest, and most honorable men and many lives were made better because of his efforts and intentions.

He is survived by his wife, Roberta Turner; six children, Will Turner, Laura Turner, Terry VanDyke (Dalana), Amy Radcliff (Jason), Jennifer Steinshouer (Sam), Andrew Gilmer (Beth), and 15 grandchildren. Each one of them felt a deep sense of love, respect and admiration for him. His stories of wild and harrowing adventures, his games of cribbage and his loving presence will be deeply missed.

Philip is preceded in death by his mother, Prebble McCuistion-Branger; father, Maurice Turner; stepmother, Luella Turner and sister, Pam Johnson.

His immediate family will hold a private graveside service, and a celebration of life is planned for Father’s Day 2021. In lieu of flowers, his family is asking that donations be made in his name to American Legion Post #56, P.O. Box 1956, Omak, WA 98841.

Bergh Funeral Service & Crematory is in care of arrangements.

Marilyn Ethel Finsen

Marilyn Ethel Finsen (Fisher), 78, of Oroville, Washington, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at home on November 6, 2020 after a long battle with cancer. Marilyn was born on March 22, 1942 in Oroville to the late Orville and Ethel Fisher (Borders).

Marilyn was raised in Oroville where she attended Oroville High School. After high school, Marilyn met James Howard and moved to Texas where she welcomed her daughter Tammy. After several years away, Marilyn decided Oroville was home for her and Tammy.

Soon after returning home, Marilyn began to nanny Jerry and Jeff Hilderbrand for the widower Zeke Hilderbrand. As their relationship developed, they decided to marry and raise their children together. After 10 years of marriage, they added a daughter, Lisa and a year later they welcomed their son, John, to their family. As her family grew, Marilyn was always busy following all of her kids through many school activities and was always in the bleachers cheering them on hardly ever missing a game. Once the grandkids started school, she followed them with their activities and sports as well. Watching her family grow and play gave her a lot of pride.

Marilyn and Zeke owned the Pastime Tavern for 30 years where she could be found helping to keep the place fun and making friends. After a long and successful partnership, Marilyn and Zeke grew apart and later divorced.

Marilyn was swept off her feet by Kenneth Finsen and after many adventures of camping and fishing together they decided to spend the rest of their lives together and were married in 1995. Marilyn and Kenneth loved spending time together and could be found out in the shop working and building many craft projects. They also took great pride in the beautiful rock garden they built together along with the yard that overlooks the river. Marilyn spent countless hours building bird houses adding her special rocks that she loved to collect. She would take the grandkids to the shop to have them help her in building their own which they will cherish forever.

During this period of her life, Marilyn was also very active at the Hodges American Legion Post 84 where she was an Auxiliary member for over 20 years. Marilyn, who faithfully dedicated her time and love, was a volunteer bar manager and she also organized many fundraisers for the Legion. One of the most memorable being the M&M (Marilyn & Marilyn) hamburger night once a week to raise money for the lodge, booster club, and many other charities.

Marilyn had a unique way about her – you never had to wonder what she was thinking. Many appreciated and admired her for that, and she will forever have a special place in our hearts.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, Orville and Ethel Fisher; her sister, Betty Cline and previous husband, Zeke Hilderbrand.

Marilyn is survived be her loving husband, Kenneth Finsen; her children, Tammy (Rick) Peery, Jerry (Natalie) Hilderbrand, Jeff (Cathy) Hilderbrand, Lisa (Mike) Carlquist, John (Cori) Hilderbrand and Connie Finsen; three sisters, Nancy (Dick) Waddell, Carol (Robert) Walker and Linda (Jim) Lutz and one brother, Lee (Christine) Fisher. Marilyn also leaves behind 11 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren that she loved spending time with and who cherished her, along with many nieces and nephews that will always remember the “spatula shaking” at breakfast time during our family reunions. Marilyn had many close friends that adored her and will always remember her.

Marilyn’s family will gather at Full Circle up Nine Mile where she will be set free to her final resting spot to be with her mom and dad. Due to COVID-19, a celebration of Marilyn’s life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, Marilyn’s wishes are to donate in her name to the Auxiliary of Hodges American Legion Post 84, P.O. Box 272, Oroville, WA. 98844 or to the Wellness Place, Compassionate Cancer Support, 609 Okanogan Ave., Wenatchee, WA 98801.

Carol Faye Pucket

Carol Faye Pucket, age 77, of Oroville, died November 13, 2020. She was born February 10, 1943 in Scobey, Montana to parents Bud and Helen Dahl.

Carol loved playing cribbage with her husband, watching the wildlife in her yard, reading, and watching bull riding. She was a member of the Eagles Club.

She is survived by her children, Terri Dahl, Jerry Crane and Donna King; siblings; Art, Diane, Linda, Lois, Sharon, Judy, Benny and Kenny and grandchildren, Amanda Crane, Dalton Crofutt, Renee Lucero and Hailee Lucero. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bud and Helen and her husband, Roy Pucket.

A memorial service will be held in the spring.

Bergh Funeral Service & Crematory is in care of arrangements.

Darleene Joyce Owyen

Darleene Joyce Owyen, a 91-year-old resident of Burley, Idaho, passed away at her home on Saturday, November 21, 2020.

Darleene was born January 10, 1929, in Airdrie, Alberta, Canada, the daughter of Laurence E. Loney and Martha L. Eby Loney.

The night of her birth was bitter cold, with the temperature dropping to 60 below zero, causing her parents to keep her close to the oven door for warmth. She attended school through the 12th grade in Oroville, Washington, graduating as the salutatorian of the class of 1947. A few months after graduation, she married George R. Kidwell on August 3, 1947 in Oroville, Washington.

George became a manager for an apple farm and Darleene worked alongside him for 27 years packing apples amongst other jobs. Prior to modern equipment, the work was labor intensive in those days. She also worked as a baker for 13 years providing baked goods to school students. In addition to her professional careers, she was a wonderful homemaker to her household.

Darleene and George enjoyed 45 years of marriage until George’s passing in 1992. Four years later, Darleene married Allan N. Owyen on October 10, 1996, in Lake Tahoe, Nevada.

Darleene was a devoted Christian and member of the Assembly of God in Oroville and later in Heyburn, Idaho, where she was involved in many extra-curricular roles, including that of being an organist for 30 years.

As an owner/manager of “Home of the Open Door Youth Center,” she touched the lives of many youth for 18 years. Additionally, she spent time in other pursuits such as school and civic committees and workshops; assisting in the Women’s Jail Ministry, serving as a hostess for historical functions and supporting town and school financial support activities. Later in life, Darleene wrote and published a book detailing her life’s story.

Darleene loved all things decor; crafts, sewing, decorating, clothing design and accessories and gardening and landscapes.

Darleene is survived by her children, Keith (Mary) Kidwell of Washington and Lawana (Steve) Floyd of Burley, Idaho; six grandsons and 13 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husbands George and Allan and her son, Kent Kidwell.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, December 2, at Rasmussen-Wilson Funeral Home, 1350 E. 16th St., in Burley, with Pastor Dan Renz officiating.

Maybelle ‘Dot’ Kuhlmann

Maybelle J. “Dot” Kuhlmann was carried into the waiting arms of her Savior on November 24, 2020 at the age of 91. She was born March 31, 1929 in Tonasket, Washington to William and Erna “Babe” (Battermann) Harneit.

Dot, an active member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Havillah, bountifully served her family and faithfully served her Lord through various ministries including the LWML, quilting and Camp Ortoha. Her husband, Leonard H. Kuhlmann, preceded her in death. She is survived by her four children, Lenette (Paul) Schuldheisz, Jim (Linda), Bob (Billi) and Paul. Also surviving Dot are her sister, Irene Kuhlmann, of Havillah; eight grandchildren and their spouses, Amy (John) Kimsey, Jenny Schuldheisz, John (Leah) Schuldheisz, Doug (Sara) Kuhlmann, Gregg (Julie) Kuhlmann, Jaima Kuhlmann, Jillian Kuhlmann and Caitlin (Patrick) Lewis and 13 great grandchildren.

Due to COVID a private service will be held at the Havillah Cemetery. Memorials may be sent to Immanuel Lutheran Church (1608 Havillah RD, Tonasket, WA 98855) where the memorial will be used to erect a park bench in Dot’s honor at the Havillah Cemetery. Excess funds will support Camp Ortoha and the church’s quilting ministry.

View the entire obituary at BerghFuneralService.com.

Wreathel J. Loose

Wreathel J. Loose of Oroville, Washington, passed away peacefully November 23, 2020 at North Valley Extended Care. Wreathel was born July 15, 1931 in Rogersville, Missouri, to Harrel and Hallie Bowers.

She graduated from Logan-Rogersville High School, keeping in touch with many of her classmates through the years and returning for reunions. Wreathel met her future husband, Joe Loose, in high school and married in 1950. While Joe served in the Army, Wreathel opened “Joe’s Cafe” in Rogersville.

While Joe was in Korea, Wreathel and her parents made the great western crossing to settle in Oroville, Washington, where other Missouri relatives had landed. Upon his return, Joe and Wreathel made their life-long home there, where they raised their children Leann and Joe, Jr. (“J”).

Wreathel maintained an active role in her family’s activities including scouting, 4H and the county fair. She was also a long-time member of the Oroville Grange, serving the organization in many offices.

Wreathel worked each harvest in her parents’ orchard and in the packing sheds. In the 1970s, she became an insurance agent for Grange Insurance Association, eventually owning her own agency and becoming a trusted advisor to many farm families.

Wreathel was preceded in death by her husband, Joe and her brother, Bill. She is survived by her brother, Harrel Lee and her children, Leann and Joe.

Memorial tributes may be made to North Valley Hospital District Extended Care Activities. Please mark checks “Donation.”

Bergh Funeral Service & Crematory is in care of arrangements.

Stacey Kay Sawyer Carleton

Stacey Kay Sawyer Carleton was born to Maurice and Kay Sawyer on June 10, 1970 in Sitka, Alaska. Jesus called her home on December 1, 2020.

Stacey attended the Oroville schools, graduating in 1988. May Day activities included First Grade Princess, dancing the May Pole in fourth grade and being chosen as May Day Queen her senior year. She was active in cheerleading, kept the scorebook for basketball and played tennis.

After graduation, she moved to the Wenatchee/East Wenatchee area to work and make her way in the world. Returning to Oroville, she borrowed a horse to participate in the Omak Stampede Parade of Flags. She also worked at the Duty-Free store at the border. Another job she held and thoroughly enjoyed was being a dispatcher for the Oroville Police Department.

She moved to Kirkland, Washington to attend Kirkland Hair Design and obtained a cosmetology license in 1997. Her love for Oroville was strong. She returned once again to work at International Hair Design, later purchasing the business for herself – which she operated from her home until her passing.

Stacey met Steve Carleton and after three and a half years they were married in Oroville. To this union, two children were born; Dorian James in 2001 and Darbey Kay in 2004. She was very dedicated to her family. The proper physical and spiritual upbringing of her children took top priority.

Stacey had an incredibly generous heart and could be counted on to lend a hand when needed. She was a good friend and often hosted gatherings for holidays, reunions, pool parties, family, friends, her kids’ friends and sometimes it was everyone together. If you were at Stacey’s, you had food!

She loved to hunt; evidence of her successes is on display on the walls of her home. Fishing with her friends and family was also a favorite pastime for her. She enjoyed talking to people, and she had a great laugh. When you met Stacey, you met a genuine person who was your friend for life.

Stacey was a member of the Bible Faith Family Church in Oroville. Stacey’s presence in our lives will be missed by all who knew her.

Stacey is survived by her husband, Steve; her son, Dorian of Spokane; her daughter, Darbey of Oroville; parents Maurice and Kay Sawyer of Oroville; brother Bryan Sawyer of Oroville and wife Rebecca Sawyer of Yakima; nephew, Brandon Sawyer of Seattle; niece, Rachael Sawyer of Spokane; parents-in-law, James and Ann Carleton of Palmer Lake; sister-in-law, Sarah Carleton of Cheney, numerous uncles, aunts, cousins and a host of friends near and far.

Memorial contributions may be made in Stacey’s name to Bible Faith Family Church, P.O. Box 897, Oroville, WA 98844.

Bergh Funeral Service & Crematory is in care of arrangements.

Pamela Jean Kelly

Pam left this world November 27, 2020 and was welcomed into the gates of Heaven by her mother, Alice Marie Gouchenhour, father, Kenneth T. Milligan Sr, and daughter Cristalynn. Born in Renton, Washington on September 26, 1957, the youngest child of four and the only girl.

As a young woman she became interested in skating competition. She excelled as an athlete and loved to skate. Before she could explore that life path further, the Lord blessed her with her first daughter. She then hung up her skates for tennis shoes. She loved being a mom, and “loved ALL of her babies” she always said. She gave birth to Heidi, David, Cristalynn, Heather and Megan. She was also notorious for “adopting” extras all through the years and was a loving step mother to Wayne as well.

When she wasn’t adopting extras, one of the projects that was near to her heart was making quilts, booties, swaddling blankets and burp cloth kits for all newborns, free of charge, to the recipients at North Valley Hospital in Tonasket. She was a talented seamstress, and was passionate about quilting. Each little kit was different, but all were soft “hugs from Nana Kelly,” as she always said. That way she could love as many new babies as possible. She would always beam when showing off her new and adorable creations. She also received numerous thank you cards from dozens of people she’d never met sincerely thankful for the set they received. She kept every card, and every picture of “her precious babies” wrapped snug in a “Nana hug” next to her sewing machine. Nana Kelly donated over 300 quilt sets. That is a lot of love!

Pam’s greatest love was for her devoted husband of 36 years. They were best friends, and equal teammates through all. And, in being the wife of a fighting Seabee, she proved she could fight right beside him by raising three little girls at home alone and taking on all home repairs needing done while Mike was deployed in the Gulf War. Later, she, Mike, Heather and Megan went on to build the house of their dreams, becoming the first established home on that mountain. Pam never wavered through the huge life change and sacrifices she and Mike had to make to accomplish the dream of building their home. At times, it was a daunting, grueling process. Yet, she was always looking forward to the next task needing done and where in life she could apply her broad pioneer skills. One of those sacrifices while building, was having to use an outhouse for about two years. After a harrowing incident with a screaming varmint in the little house out back, she was VERY excited to move into the house before it was even chinked. It had indoor plumbing!

Mike and Pam shared a rare love, usually only wished for. They had an unbreakable bond, that was strong in nature and forged to become unbreakable. Together, they realized their dreams, overcame otherwise impossible obstacles and inspired those around them. He even still chased her around the house in play and she would “let him chase her, until she caught him,” up until this year.

She loved playing with words. Pam loved books, English, grammar, crossword puzzles, etc. She was always on the lookout for new, interesting words to learn and use.

Pam was a strong supporter of local rodeo associations such as O.C.J.R.A, C.T.J.R.A, Tonasket Founders Day Rodeo and the Omak Stampede. Her youngest daughters both served on various rodeo courts as rodeo queens. Pam proudly made beautiful rodeo shirts, outfits, a serape and assembled exquisite parade bouquets to adorn the horses.

She was a very versatile woman. She loved to learn, and always referenced the Robert Heinlein quote on her sewing room wall that ended with “specialization is for insects.” A small sample of her interests and skill set are in no way limited to: quilting, sewing, processing wool from fleece to spool, quill work, cooking, gardening, canning, wild foraging, hunting, trapping, beading, and anything to do with art. She did all of this, while being legally blind. She had battled glaucoma most of her life and was told she would be completely blind by 40. Miraculously, she retained all but peripheral vision.

Pam Kelly was a beacon of hope and pillar of strength. She loved intensely, and helped those around her however she could. Pam always took the opportunity to smile or laugh whenever it arose. She was the strong shoulder, words of wisdom, and safe place to be for many youth through her life. She loved all her grandchildren wildly, both, natural and adopted. ‘Nana made’ Halloween costumes will be forever missed, yet cherished, as will many Nana gifts.

It is with heavy hearts we lay to rest this legendary woman. She was a daughter, sister, wife and one of the best mothers to have ever existed. Her presence on this earth was powerful, and her exit left a resounding echo through this valley.

In the poem, “The Dash,” it speaks how it isn’t the beginning date nor the ending date that is the most important in one’s obituary, rather it is the time in between those dates that counts— the dash. Pam’s dash in this world was a remarkable one. She lived a full life, created a strong and worthwhile family, loved the love of her life and together built their dreams. Poker runs on the Harley, camping, hunting, prospecting, mountain man rendezvous, Jr. Rodeo mom, and more… What a dash it was.

The family would like to extend an open invitation to anyone who has received a baby quilt made by Nana Kelly. Please feel free to bring these with you, as we would love to display as many as we can at her services. At this time, we plan to have a memorial on May 1, 2021 at the Tonasket Eagles.

Bergh Funeral Service & Crematory is in care of arrangements.

Robert Dean McCammon

Sadly, we lost our brother Robert Dean McCammon, age 89, of Omak on November 30, 2020. Bob was born October 5, 1931 in Webb City, Oklahoma to parents Louis E. and Ruby I. (DeVore) McCammon.

U.S. Air Force

Bob attended and graduated from Tonasket High School, served four years in the Air Force, and married Nancy C. Heath in September of 1952. He was the founder of the Tonasket Airport Fly-In. Bob was an airplane pilot and snow ski instructor for years.

After Bob retired from the U.S. Post Office, he had the Sears store in Tonasket and then a travel agency in Spokane. Bob and Nancy spent winters in Quartzsite, Arizona for more than 30 years.

Bob was a member of the Masons, The Eagles and The American Legion.

He is survived by his sisters, Patricia Bell and Nancy (Edwin “Mac”) McKeen; sisters-in-law, Dottie Skelton, Sara Heath and brother-in-law, Jim Heath, plus many nieces and nephews, which Bob loved them all. Bob had many close friends throughout his life, to name a few: Duane Wilson, Dave Hanna, Lee Ore and Wally Going.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Louis E. and Ruby I. McCammon; wife, Nancy G.; sisters, Linda Stalder and Betty Lundy.

A graveside service will be held at the Loomis Cemetery at a later date.

We will speak for the whole family. Rest well dear brother; we all love and miss you.

Bergh Funeral Service & Crematory is in care of arrangements.

Carol Ann Didra

Carol Ann Didra, age 68 of Oroville, Washington, died on December 4, 2020 at her home. She was born September 12, 1952 in Renton to parents Jack and Catherine Stewart.

Carol grew up in Oroville where she attended school. She had two sons and raised them in Tonasket. On January 24, 1985 she married Danny Didra in Reno, Nevada. Carol worked for many years in local apple warehouses. She enjoyed gardening and was an avid reader and was a member of the Tonasket Eagles.

Carol is survived by her husband, Danny; two sons, Micheal of Ridgefield and Patrick of Spokane Valley; one sister, Janet (Mike) Swearngin of Yakima and five grandchildren, Tanner, Jacksen, Tyler, Zachary and John.

She was preceded in death by three brothers, Pat, Dennis and Dave.

A memorial graveside service will be held at a later date. Bergh Funeral Service & Crematory is in care of arrangements.

Jack Elrey VanBrunt (Brunt) was born January 31, 1931 in Ashland, Oregon and passed away Friday, November 27, 2020 with his loving wife, Mert, by his side.

Following his military career, Jack moved back to Okanogan County and started his truck driving career. He worked for several companies: Biles Coleman, Figenshaw Transportation, Grillo Trucking, Gallagher Logging, Will Logging, Jaws Logging, Johnson Logging, and Jones Logging. Jack enjoyed owning and driving his own Log Truck, known as Mer-Jac Logging. ‘Black Jack’ enjoyed each day in the woods and retired after many years of doing what he “loved.”

Jack enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, friends, his church family and telling stories at the coffee table.

Jack is survived by his loving wife, Mert VanBrunt; daughter, Julie Worley (John) and five children; son, Karl and three children and daughter, Laura and one child. He also had step-children, to whom he loved as his own: daughter, Berta Gallagher and two children; son, Terry Nixon (Jackie) and three children; daughter, Barb Willis and two children; son, Bill Nixon (Judy) and two children; daughter, Diane Anderson (Rick) and two children; 33.5 great-grand-children and two great-great-grand-children.

Jack is preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Myrtle VanBrunt; daughter, Crystal; siblings, Jerry, Harold, Helen, Clyde (Dutch), BethAbra, Billy, Clifford (Red), Fay Apostol, Wallace (Stub) and Dell VanBrunt; his nephew, Art VanBrunt and nieces, Martha, Nicole and Marilee Apostol and Patsy VanBrunt.

The family would like to express their thanks for the exceptional care and love from all the staff at North Valley Extended Care.

There will be a memorial for Jack at a later date.

Bergh Funeral Service & Crematory is in care of arrangements.

Jim Clarkson, age 64, of Tonasket died December 5, 2020. He was born September 18, 1956 in Tonasket to parents Kenneth and Betty (Oakes) Clarkson.

He was raised in Tonasket; attending and graduating from Tonasket school in 1975. He was an athlete; playing football, basketball and baseball. Jim attended Spokane Falls where he earned his A.A. and then continued on to attend EWU where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree.

On July 1, 1978 he married his high school sweetheart Lisa Workosky in Oroville. Jim worked with his father-in-law at the Lund Insurance Agency in Tonasket where he later became a partner. Jim continued to work as an Insurance Agent throughout his life. Jim was very involved in the Tonasket Athletic program. He spent many hours in the gym coaching his children in AAU basketball for numerous years. He refereed many high school games & was the voice for the Tonasket Tigers as he announced at both football and basketball games. He loved hunting, fishing, and his orchard.

Jim is survived by his wife Lisa at home; three children, Stephanie (Kory) Schertenleib of Brewster, Jessica (Dave) Hylton of Tonasket and Zack (Jo) Clarkson of Marysville; sisters, Barb (Bunk) Ayers of Tonasket and Terri (Rod) Armbruster of Chewelah; five grandchildren, Tyson, Kara, Cash, Tessa and Noah. Jim was preceded in death by his parents.

A graveside service will be held at the Tonasket Cemetery with Pastor Brian Bowes officiating on December 21, 2020 at 1 p.m. Memorials can be made in Jim’s honor to the Jim Clarkson Memorial Athletic Scholarship that will be set up in Jim’s name. Donations can be mailed to 31255 Hwy 97, Tonasket WA 98855.

Bergh Funeral Service & Crematory is in care of arrangements.

Beloved mother and grandmother, Hazel Utecht, went home to be with the Lord on December 10, 2020 in Tonasket, Washington. She was born Hazel Marie Denison on June 20, 1934 in Davenport, Washington. She married Marvin F. Utecht on August 23, 1954.

Hazel’s children and grandchildren were the pride and joy of her life. Hazel’s kind spirit, enthusiasm for camping and hunting, love of baking, and ability to brighten the lives of others will live on through them.

Hazel is survived by four sons, Vern (Sandy) Whitmore, Les (Lisa) Whitmore, Marvin Utecht, Ron (Melony) Utecht; three daughters, Cherry (Joe) Lorz, Vickie (Marty) Whaley, Terri Utecht (Ron); one brother, Charlie; 13 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Hazel has been reunited with the ones she has missed so dearly; her husband, Marvin Utecht; sons, Russell and Alan; great grandson, Dalyn; brothers, Jim, George and Emmit and sisters, Marian and Caroline.

A memorial dinner will be held next summer.

The family of Paul M. Chavez, 83 of Oroville Washington, announces with great sorrow his passing on December 10, 2020.

Paul bravely finished his battle with cancer and went home to be with his friends/family in heaven, which include his late wife Audrey J. Chavez and his late son Paul M. Chavez Jr.

Paul is survived by his son Alan E. Chavez and his daughter Faith M. Chavez.

Paul was born in February of 1937 to Rosa Martinez and Abel Chavez in Concho, Arizona and in which he was one of twelve children.

Paul had a very loving soul and gave all that he had to offer to those in need. Paul and his late wife Audrey opened their home to many individuals in the Oroville community throughout their lifetime, including many years as foster parents.

No service has been scheduled as his family has chosen to hold a private spreading of the ashes at a later date.

Bergh Funeral Service & Crematory is in care of arrangements.

Myrtle “Mert” Elane VanBrunt

Myrtle “Mert” Elane VanBrunt was born September 4, 1935 to Emma and Bacil John in Harden, Montana. Jesus called mom home on December 10, 2020.

Her mom, dad and brother (Gerald) moved to Washington in 1941. Mom attended school in Tonasket in the first and second grade and then her family moved to Spectacle Lake where she attended school at Enterprise. Mom’s fondest childhood memories were living on Spectacle Lake. Mom’s dad died in 1944 leaving her mom to support her and her younger brother. They moved into Tonasket where she attended school until she married our dad Robert Nixon in December 1949.

From that marriage were born Berta, Terry, Barb, Bill and Diane. Mom’s greatest joy and her life’s dream was to be a mom. She was the best mom one could ever have.

Mom being married and starting a family at such a young age, she did not finish high school. Mom received her GED in 1971, the same year her first son Terry graduated high school. We were so proud of her and she was always so proud of that accomplishment.

Mom was first a housewife and mom. Mom was involved and wore many hats in her church; from teaching the high school Sunday School, Women’s Missionary Society, helping each summer with Bible School, Sunday School Superintendent and many years on the Leadership Board.

Most of all, Mom was a great ‘Prayer Warrior.’ Her greatest joy was praying for her children and grandchildren and watching them turn to her Almighty God for their own personal walk.

After Diane started school she went to work in the apple warehouse packing apples. Throughout her life she worked at our local library, worked at the school in the cafeteria, worked at both of the local pharmacies and took the position as secretary for Jim Bear in his insurance agency.

Mom married Jack VanBrunt on June 5, 1976. Mom stayed home and helped all of us kids with our own families, whether it be needing a babysitter, caring for them in times of need, even teaching them to swim. When Jack purchased his own log truck mom became bookkeeper for their business.

Mom and Jack moved into the North Valley Extended care in May 2019. Mom felt God had placed her there to show everyone around her how great and mighty her God was and is. Mom met some amazing people in her time in the Extended Care. She loved her caregivers; nurses, NAC’s, housekeepers, dietary and everyone in between. She loved having lunch with ‘the girls’ and playing BINGO along with other activities. She loved the Friday BBQ’s outside in the courtyard.

Mert VanBrunt is survived by her children, daughter Berta Gallagher of Spokane and children Chris, Trina; son, Terry (Jackie) of Ephrata and children Ryan (Maggie), Rachelle, Stacia (Jeff); daughter, Barb Willis of Elmer City and children Joe (Alice), Jon (Charity); son, Bill (Judy) of Moses Lake and children Tasha (Adam), Manda (Mike); daughter, Diane Anderson (Rick) of Tonasket and children Jerry, Ricki (Bob); stepchildren, Julie Worley (John) and four children, Karl VanBrunt and three children, Laura VanBrunt and one child. Mom and Jack shared 34 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Mom is preceded in death by her loving husband, Jack VanBrunt (11-27-20); first husband, Robert Nixon; parents, Bacil John and Emma (John) Evans; step-dad, Carl Evans; brother, Gerald John and step-daughter, Crystal VanBrunt.

There will be a family only ‘Celebration of Life’ on January 9, 2021 at 1 p.m. at the Tonasket Free Methodist Church. Please join us via ‘live stream’ at www.tonasketfmc.org

In lieu of flowers, donations to the North Valley Extended Care, Activities Department would be appreciated.

We miss you mom, but you have no more pain or tears. You lived life as a Godly woman and you are in His presence forever more. We love you beyond words.

Bergh Funeral Service & Crematory is in care of arrangements.

On November 27, the Green family lost their beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend Patricia to a tragic accident. Patricia was born March 29, 1937 to Edith and Wally Katterhagen in Tonasket, Washington.

She grew up in the area with a love and passion for friends, family, and animals. She developed many skills, including arts and crafts. Many of her paintings have won awards at the Okanogan County Fair, even Grand Champion in 1972. She was a certified lifeguard as a teenager, eventually introducing her own children to swimming at early ages. She and her many friends loved to attend dances at Maple Hall.

Patricia graduated from Okanogan High School in 1955 and continued her friendships and bonds with fellow classmates, often coordinating reunions and informal get-togethers. On November 12, 1955 she married Gerald Green of Tonasket and they had three sons: Doug, Darrell and Gregg. She instantly became a loyal and devoted community member of the Tonasket School District by participating in her boy’s activities which started as “Room Mother” in their grade school years and included activities like being a major volunteer in creating floats for THS where she used her creativity and skills to make sure the Blue and Gold was represented with pride.

Over the years, Patricia sold Avon, managed the books and employees of the Green orchard, as well as volunteered at the library. Patricia loved to read! She was a member of the Garden Club, Bible Study, and Good Fruit Grower Association.

But her true passion was being her sons’ biggest sports fan! She kept score for Pee Wee and Little League baseball games, never missed a game and was always proud, no matter the outcome. Patricia’s loyalty moved out of state in the early 1980s when her youngest son, Gregg played football for the University of Montana Grizzlies. Gerald and Pat made many treks to Missoula and other places, showing their pride of school colors and the Green name. In this era, both went to Tokyo, Japan when the Grizzlies played Army in the 1984 Mirage Bowl, not only experiencing a crowd of 50,000, but the Japanese culture, riding a rickshaw and bullet train, and always making friends.

Patricia’s life took on more meaning when her son, Darrell, married Mitzy Bucholtz. Together, they raised a family of their own with Alissa, Darrick, and Dylan. Mitzy became a wonderful addition to the family, bringing joy to Patricia. She got to live sports life again through her granddaughter Alissa’s dance recitals, plus Darrick and Dylan’s sports, always proud of the name and colors they represented. When Dylan went to school at Carroll College in Montana, she traveled with family to attend games in Helena. Patricia so proudly walked down the middle of the field with her grandson Dylan on Senior day. There were a few defeats over the years, but Patricia was elated when Darrick and Dylan both won State wrestling championships, bringing her emotions to “tears of joy”.

In recent years, Patricia continued painting and creating gifts for family and friends, as well as developing computer skills and was a fan of Gonzaga basketball.

Patricia is survived by her husband, Gerald; sons, Doug, Darrell (Mitzy) of Tunk Creek, Gregg of Bella Vista, California; grandsons, Dylan of Tunk Creek, Darrick of Sheridan, Oregon; granddaughter, Alissa of Omak; sisters, Judy Rounds and Cathy Payne of Tonasket and Linda Whitaker of Ephrata.

In leu of flowers or gifts, the Green family asks to continue your wonderful thoughts and kind words for our beloved Patricia. Extend those positive thoughts to the folks directly involved in your life and never forget kindness to a stranger. It might just make someone’s day and may even be the start of a great relationship that Patricia had so many of.

The Green family will have a celebration of life once COVID restrictions are lifted

Bergh Funeral Service & Crematory is in care of arrangements.

U.S. Veteran

Terry Donceel, age 73 of Tonasket, died December 21, 2020 at the North Valley Extended Care in Tonasket. He was born December 4th, 1947 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to parents Donald and Helen (Hamilton) Donceel.

Terry was the first of five siblings in a combined family. He enjoyed working on his grandfather’s farm where he evolved his aptitude for the finer aspects of mechanization as well as his love for all manner of farm living and play. He served his country during the Vietnam Era after which he returned home to family and friends. Terry showed respect, tolerance, strength, honor, humility and helpfulness to all who met him.

He is survived by his step-mother, Beverly Donceel; son, Kannon Donceel; daughter, Toma Donceel; brothers, Craig and Steve Donceel and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Helen Donceel; father, Donald Donceel and two sisters, Sherry and Kerry Donceel.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Bergh Funeral Service & Crematory is in care of arrangements.