Dr. Howard William Fetz, III, age 83, of Maupin, Oregon, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, October 9, 2023. Howard was born in Spokane, Washington, to Howard W. Fetz, Jr. and Ruth Ida (Krug) Fetz. In his early youth the family moved to Coeur d ‘Alene, Idaho, where he enjoyed a carefree life of exploring, riding the trains, and going to baseball games at the stadium across the street from the family home. Howie and his dog, Shawn, would sit in the top corner of the grandstands, where his mother could see him from their front porch, and thus began his lifelong love for the sport of baseball. While living in Coeur d ‘Alene, Howard W. Fetz, Jr. began building Camp Lutherhaven on Lake Coeur d ‘Alene, a Christian camp offering a year-round outdoor ministry center dedicated to faith-building experiences for people of all ages. The family lived at the camp during the summers and Howard helped his father deliver the mail by boat to the cabins and homes around the lake. It was a magical place for the family.

In 1951, the family moved to West Linn, Oregon, where Howard attended Bolton Grade School beginning in the fifth grade. It was at Bolton Park where he first played the position of catcher on a youth baseball team. Howard excelled both academically and in baseball, graduating from West Linn High School in 1958. He was active in Honor Society, Letterman’s Club, Basketball and Baseball; was Class President and Student Body Vice President; and always maintained several jobs while going to school.

Howard enrolled at Portland State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree with Honors in Secondary Education in 1963. A four-year letterman at PSU, Howard was a co-captain of the 1962 PSU Viking Baseball team that finished second in the NAIA National Tournament. The previous year he had been selected as an All-NAIA District II catcher and scholar-athlete, after leading the old Oregon Collegiate Conference with a .500 batting average. Howard was named a State of Oregon Rhodes Scholar representative, and served as an assistant baseball coach at Portland State and the University of Oregon.

In 1963, Howard married Billie (Beagle) Fetz. Howard accepted the position of Head Coach for the Dutch National Baseball Team, and the young couple lived in Holland from 1965-66. In 1967, Howard accepted two positions at Eastern Oregon State College, an Associate Professorship of English, and Head Baseball Coach, excelling in both. For the next two decades, Coach Fetz built a highly respected baseball program where the team played as many NCAA Division I teams as NAIA opponents. In 1985, Mountie baseball featured a perfect 12-0 record in conference play, helping to move their coach into the 400-career win club. In 1986, the veteran coach’s record in conference action moved to 153-68 – a 70% success ratio and advancing his overall record to 442-302. During his career at EOSC, Fetz sent 13 players onto pro ball, with 50 former Mountie ballplayers accepting coaching and administrative positions.

Howard and Billie had two sons, Trevor and Teun. Sports remained a very important part of their lives, with the family supporting each other in baseball, cross-country, track, basketball, and swimming, as well as music. Howard was the recipient of Doctor of Arts and PhD degrees in English from the University of Oregon in 1970. He completed an Administrative Licensure Program through the University of Oregon, Lewis & Clark College, Portland State University, and Eastern Oregon State College.

Upon leaving Eastern Oregon State College, Howard became a public-school Superintendent/Principal. Again, his leadership style of collaborative problem solving, allowed him to be successful in guiding educators in Developmentally Appropriate and Cooperative Learning, Integrated Curriculum, Learning Styles and Multiple Intelligences, and Authentic Assessments, all during a time of fiscal challenges. He led districts to achieve consistently high Oregon Statewide Assessment results, and established an Indian Education Program, while collaboratively establishing an Education Center at Celilo Indian Village. Dr. Fetz cared about ALL students and frequently reminded his staff members of his belief: “Not one way for all, but the right way for each.” He lived by this motto in all areas of his life.

In 2005, Howard married Bernie (Zumwalt Chastain) Fetz, and they settled on Juniper Flat in Maupin, Oregon. Howard and Bernie worked tirelessly together as educators serving students in the K-12 system. Outside of work in public schools, they supported students through athletic and fine arts arenas. Baseball continued to be an important aspect of their shared interests, attending spring training in Arizona for many years. Howard established a 501(c) charitable organization, America’s Game, with the goal of providing funds for baseball facilities, and scholarships for young prospects seeking to play at the college level. They also enjoyed family time with their grandchildren.

As successful as Howard was at mentoring baseball players, he was equally effective in mentoring his students in positive life skills. Countless students and student athletes have carried Howard’s impact and influence on their lives into actions and effects on the lives they have touched, thus passing Howard’s life lessons from generation to generation. Howard had grit, was tenacious, unflappable, calm, strong, brilliant, and caring. He did everything to excess, never giving up.

Howard also enjoyed working as a real estate salesman, a Sports Broadcaster at KLBM in La Grande, and author. He published Baseball: The Winning Fundamentals and its accompanying test book, Tests for Baseball: The Winning Fundamentals. They were two of the major texts in the field, having reached the foreign market in such countries as Holland, Italy, South Africa, England, and Australia. The Kansas City Royals and other MLB teams also used his works in their baseball training schools. His knowledge of baseball, and experience as a coach and player, made him a perfect candidate to be an MLB Associate Scout. He served numerous organizations in this capacity from 1985-2021, including the Chicago White Sox, Cleveland Indians, Florida Marlins, Detroit Tigers, California Angels, San Francisco Giants, Tampa Devil Rays, Houston Astros, Baltimore Orioles, and the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Howard was inducted into the NAIA District II Coaches’ Hall of Fame, State of Oregon; Eastern Oregon State College Athletic Hall of Fame, La Grande, Oregon; and Portland State University’s Athletic Hall of Fame.

Howard is survived by his devoted wife, Bernie Fetz; his children, Dr.Trev Fetz (Dr. Jessica Favis), Dr. Teun Fetz (Katie); his step children, Casey Hayes (Kristi), Abby (Hayes) Kraayeveld (Jeff), Brian Chastain (Tricia), JodiLynn Chastain Kelley (Kyd); his grandchildren, Will and Sarah Fetz; Jackson and Elliot Fetz; Nolan and Piper Hayes; Ava and Hayden Kraayeveld; Grace, Allison, and Kate Chastain; Acie and Tadley Kelley; and his siblings, Dr. Gerald Fetz (Jocelyn Siler), Dr. Joanne Reece (Bill Voxman), Diana (DeDe) Baasham (Gary), and Roger Fetz (Sharry); and many wonderful nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held (rain or shine) on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at Quinton Street Ballpark in The Dalles, Oregon at 11:00 a.m. The service will be officiated by Pastor Tim Morelli. Please dress for the weather and bring a stadium blanket, umbrella, etc. as necessary. A reception will follow at Bargeway Pub in The Dalles, Oregon at 12:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to America’s Game, PO Box 282, Maupin, Oregon 97037; or to another charity of your choice.

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

Dennis Ralph Miles, age 88, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away October 8, 2023. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Marsha Christine Savery, age 70, a resident of Maupin, OR, passed away October 18, 2023. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Dale Scott Buchert, age 69, a resident of Dufur, OR, passed away October 6, 2023. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Alan Bradshaw, age 87, a resident of Wamic, OR, passed away October 14, 2023. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Keith Douglas Smith, age 61, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away October 16, 2023. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

John Addington Langfeldt, age 87, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away October 16, 2023. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

James Byron Bartz, age 68, a resident of Wishram, WA, passed away October 15, 2023. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Robert (Bob) Sproule 82, passed away on October 9 in The Dalles, Oregon after a brief stay in the hospital. Bob was born in Chicago, Il on July 19, 1941 to Mildred and Clayton (Mike) Sproule. Growing up in Dallas TX, Bob developed a love for the game of golf at a very early age, going to the golf course whenever he could with his dad. He continued playing through his years in high school and college.

He married Diane Daugherty while in college and after graduation from East Texas State in 1965, they started their teaching careers in Forney TX. Bob worked for the Forest Service during his summers in Riggins, Id manning a lookout tower for a couple of years and later becoming a smoke jumper in McCall. Their son Michael came along on October 9, 1965. They moved to Riggins full time in 1966 where they taught school. Upon separating from Diane, Bob moved to Clarkston WA and began his golfing career at Clarkston Country Club in 1968. He worked there for 2 years then moved to Kennewick to manage the Columbia Park golf course for one season. In 1970 he moved to Spokane to become the assistant golf professional at the new Hangman Valley Golf Course. In 1972 Bob and his new family: Maralee, Marilyn, Debbi and Doug moved to the Okanogan Valley to manage Okanogan Valley Golf Club. They remained there until 1976 when Bob became the Golf Professional at The Dalles Country Club, where he remained until retiring in 2015. Bob received his pin for 50 years as a PGA Professional in 2021.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents Mike and Millie Sproule and his son Michael. He is survived by his special friend of 20+ years Teresa Harrington of The Dalles, brother Bill Sproule (Camille) of Omak, WA, Sister Pam Murray (Jim) of Richardson TX, niece Michelle Peacock (Nate) of College Station TX, nephew Brent Murray (Becky) of Lubbock, TX, niece Emily Sproule of Seattle and nephew Chad Sproule (Ciara) of North Bend WA, as well as several great-nieces and nephews.

A memorial service for Bob will be planned, at a later time, at The Dalles Country Club.

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

Alice Marie Penman, age 91, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away October 6th, 2023. A Burial will be held in Oakesdale Cemetery in Washington, October 23rd, 2023 at 2:00 pm. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Another member of The Greatest Generation has passed. Alice left this life to her heavenly home on Oct. 6, 2023, at the age of 91. She was born on July 31, 1932, within the golden wheat fields of Washington’s Palouse country to Y Glen and Lou Jones. She was the 3rd of 4 children to this union. She grew up in Oaksdale, at the start of The Great Depression, and finished High School after the close of WW II. After HS graduation she went to Maupin, OR to visit a favorite aunt. There she met a Marine returning from the war in the Pacific and fell in love. She married that rough around the edges Marine, Art Gerity, December 23rd, 1950. They had 3 children Zada Marie (Gerity) Lewis, G. Michael Gerity and April Nadine Gerity. Grievously, April never survived to leave the hospital. Alice’s marriage to Art ended in 1969. She married Robert (Bob) Perkins of Hansen, ID 1971.  They lived in Hansen, ID until Bob’s passing in 1997. She then moved to Wamic, OR to be closer to her daughter Zada. It was there she met and Married Terry Penman in January 2005. Alice and Terry split their time between Wamic, OR and Casa Grande, AZ.  Sadly, Terry passed 2015 in Casa Grande, AZ. She then returned to Oregon, living first in Wamic, then moving to Flagstone, then on to The Springs, 2021 where she passed. Alice is remembered for her sweet smile and helping hand, developing many friendships along the way. She is survived by her 2 children Zada Lewis, and husband Dennis Lewis, G. Michael Gerity and wife Donna L. Gerity, two grandchildren Sean Gerity wife Marci Gerity, and Caitlin Gerity and three greatgrandchildren Lucas, Dylan & Thomas Gerity.

A graveside memorial is planned for Mother’s Day May 12, 2024. 

Barbara A Pashek, age 83, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away October 8th, 2023. A Private family Graveside will be held at St. Peters Cemetery. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Kenneth Clayton Brandt, age 99, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away September 20th, 2023. A Graveside service will be held at Odd Fellows Cemetery on 3 mile rd. in The Dalles, OR, October 14th, 2023 at 9:30 am with a Memorial following at the First Christian Church in The Dalles, OR, at 10:30 am. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Patrick William Quigley, age 75, a resident of Hood River, OR, passed away October 03, 2023. A Celebration of Life will be held at The Ruins in Hood River, OR, October 29th, 2023 at 2:00 pm. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

David L. Neitling (1936–2023)

David L. Neitling, 87, of The Dalles, was born in Stayton, Oregon on May 21, 1936, to Chris and Mary “May” Neitling, the second of three children. His parents taught him the value of volunteering and he did so everywhere he lived. He died on October 6, 2023, due to injuries from a fall.

He spent an active life living in several of Oregon’s small towns. From Klamath Falls to Newberg, to Rainier, to The Dalles and a few others along the way. He was an avid runner, competing in 48 marathons and 2 ultra-marathons. He climbed all of the major peaks in Oregon.

David is a graduate of Stayton High School and St. Mary’s College in Moraga, California. He served in the U.S. Army for four years, spending most of his time in Germany. His primary career interest began when he was hired as a teller at First Interstate Bank and eventually became a loan officer. He worked for the State of Oregon Department of Energy and later in the Environmental Department, arranging financing for worthy projects.

You may have seen him over the years working on the Riverfront Trail, sealing cracks or cutting back overgrowth. He may have waved at you and said hello and stopped to ask about your life or cheer on your walk, run or bike ride. You may have seen him cleaning up tree limbs in Sorosis Park or working on the tennis courts. Maybe you met him when he was building houses with Habitat for Humanity. Or it could have been that he helped prepare your income taxes at the Senior Center. Whether you knew him or not, David had a big impact on the community of The Dalles.

He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Juanita (Williams) Neitling, his two children, David and Jennifer Neitling, and his three grandsons, Garrett Neitling, Kai Rifani, and Dane Rifani. He was a loving uncle to Rita, Robert, Joe, Cathy, Donald “Dee,” Joelee, Glenda, and Lynn. His parents, brother Bruce and sister Margaret pre-deceased him.

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” ~ Winston Churchill

David’s Memorial Service will be at Spencer, Libby and Powell’s Funeral Home, 1100 Kelly Avenue, The Dalles, at October 21, 2023 10:00 AM. Interment will follow at Cascade Cemetery, North Bonneville, WA.

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

Douglas John Macnab, age 75, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away October 5, 2023. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Daniel Bruce Kuehnl, age 72, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away September 30, 2023. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Carolyn Rae Ellett, age 74, a resident of The Dalles, OR, passed away September 27, 2023. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Timothy (Tim) John Timmer passed away peacefully on September 25, 2023, at his home in The Dalles, Oregon surrounded by his family. He was a loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, and friend to many.

The youngest of six children, Tim was born in Butte, Montana, on February 10, 1959, to John and Ione (Linton) Timmer. Tim attended school in Butte, until he moved to The Dalles in 1976, where he graduated in 1977 from Wahtonka High School. It was during his attendance at Wahtonka where Tim met the love of his life Patti (Deg).  

Patti and Tim were married on March 3, 1979 and lived a fulfilling life raising their two children, Heather and John.  He played a dynamic role in the lives of their grandchildren, attending countless sporting events, school programs, birthday parties, and family gatherings.

Tim, always known as a hard worker, held several jobs at Northwest Aluminum, where he worked until 2002. In 2002, inspired by his infamous love of spreadsheets, Tim decided to attend Columbia Gorge Community College to study accounting. Tim not only graduated with a degree in accounting, but graduated with honors, including an award for Student of the Year. Following his graduation Tim began work as a Finance Specialist at Columbia Cascade Housing.

Tim will be remembered as a kind and patient man with a great sense of humor. Tim had many interests including fishing, cheering for his Dallas Cowboys, and listening to his favorite bands (especially AC/DC). He was an avid volunteer who had helped coach several local sports teams over the span of two decades. However, Tim had no greater pleasure in life than spending time with his family. He was a man whose presence touched the lives of many and he will be greatly missed.  

Tim is survived by his wife, Patti; daughter, Heather Ornelas; son, John Timmer; grandchildren, Natalie, Eric, Alyssa, Jaxon and Elliette; siblings, Gayle, Jack, Bonnie and Cheryl. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ione Timmer and his sister Gladys.

A viewing will be held for Tim at Spencer, Libby & Powell on Friday, October 6th from 9 AM to 12:30 PM, with the funeral to follow at 1:00 PM. A celebration of life will be held later that day at The Civic Auditorium (Community Room) at 3:00 PM.

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

Austin Michael Greene, 22, rode into the gates of heaven Friday September 22, 2023.

            Austin was born May 28, 2001, in Moses Lake, WA. to Jason and Christina Greene.

In 2019, Austin Graduated from The Dalles High School. He excelled in sports, playing varsity football, wrestling, and baseball. He had many friends whom he loved to hang out with.

            Austin had made his career with Les Schwab Tires starting in 2019. Austin who was a well-respected young man by anyone that he encountered even with all the moves in his journey, his outgoing upbeat personality was infectious and anyone who he was around gravitated towards him to become lifelong friends.

He had a real passion for the outdoors. Austin loved his dog Hailey, fishing, and hunting. At the age of 12 he started joining his dad and papa on hunting trips to Washington, Oregon, Colorado, and Utah. He also enjoyed supercross, riding horses, and working cows on the ranch.

            Austin loved his family more than anything. He was an amazing son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend. He loved beach trips to the Oregon Coast, Disneyland, and weekends at Whidbey Island as well as the Seattle Seahawks games.

            Austin is survived by his parents, Jason and Christina Greene, brother Zak, maternal grandfather Bob Luhn and wife Jane (Richland), paternal grandparents Mike and Linda Greene (WA.), as well as aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Austin was proceeded in death by his maternal grandmother, Kathy Luhn.

A Gathering will be held at Spencer, Libby, and Powell Funeral Home September 30th, 2023, at 4:00 pm with a Celebration of Life at a later date.

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

Gereld Glen Lee, age 75, a resident of Dallesport, WA, passed away September 20th, 2023. A family gathering will be held at a later date. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.