OMEGA Funeral & Cremation Service - Obituaries

Inice P. Bell

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 13:54:45

Inice P. Bell

March 8, 1936 - June 4, 2026

It is with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Inice P. Bell on June 4, 2026, at the age of 90. Born on March 8th, 1936, she was raised in North Portland. Inice carried the values of hard work, kindness, and devotion to family throughout her life. She was a woman of quiet strength, unwavering faith, and a generous heart who touched countless lives through her love and compassion. Inice married the love of her life in November of 1952, beginning a partnership that would span more than seven decades. Together they built a loving home and raised two sons, creating a family that remained the center of her world. Throughout her career, Inice worked for Lerner Shops and later First Interstate Bank, which became Wells Fargo, where she dedicated many years of service before retiring. She was respected by colleagues and known for her reliability, warmth, and dedication. She was a life long member of the Peace Lutheran Church community. Inice was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ralph Dale Bell; her parents, Frank and Antonia Quady; and her brother, Floyd Bruce. She is lovingly remembered by her sons, Bruce and Brice; her grandsons, Shaun Bell and Justin (Jennifer) Bell; her granddaughter, Brittney Bell; her great-granddaughter, Kaitlyn Bell; her great-grandsons, Grayson Bell and Garrett Bell; her nieces, Peggy Vosgien and Barbara (Mike) Hildebrandt; her nephews, Daniel Bell, Steven Bell, David Bell, Mike Bell, and Lawrence Bruce; and many other family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her love and presence. The family takes comfort in knowing that Inice has been reunited with the love of her life, and is now at peace. Service information is to follow at a later date. To honor Inice's passion for animals, the family welcomes contributions to the Oregon Humane Society in lieu of flowers.

Ralph "Dale" Bell

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 13:53:19

Ralph "Dale" Bell

June 27, 1927 - April 9, 2026

Ralph “Dale” Bell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2026, at the age of 98. Born on June 27, 1927, Dale lived a long and meaningful life marked by dedication to his family, hard work, and kindness toward others. A proud veteran of the Army Air Corps during World War II, he later dedicated his career to the United States Post Office. In 1952, he married the love of his life, Inice, beginning a remarkable marriage that spanned 73 years. Together they raised two sons and built a family rooted in love and commitment. When he wasn’t working or home he loved spending time at the family beach cabin in Gleneden Beach, Oregon, relaxing and taking in the ocean air. He was an avid bowler and spent years competing with the Federal Clerks League. He also loved to collect stamps and was a member of the Beaver Stamp Club. He is proceeded in death by his parents, Therol "Ed" and Ella Bell; and brothers, Ed and Charles. He is survived by his wife, Inice; sons, Bruce and Brice; grandsons, Shaun Bell and Justin (Jennifer) Bell; granddaughter, Brittney Bell; great-granddaughter, Kaitlyn Bell; great-grandsons, Grayson Bell and Garrett Bell; nieces, Peggy Vosgien and Barbara (Mike) Hildebrandt; nephews, Daniel Bell, Steven Bell, David Bell, Mike Bell, and Lawrence Bruce. Service information is to follow at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Oregon Humane Society.

Johnny O. Johnson

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 13:35:44

Johnny Otis Johnson

December 8, 1952 - June 2, 2026

Johnny Otis Johnson, aged 73, born on December 8, 1952, in Little Rock Arkansas, gently passed away on June 2, 2026, in Portland, Oregon. Johnny was born to Birdie Nipper (mother) and Leotis Christopher (father), and he was joyful, and resilient throughout his life. Johnny was a loving and dedicated family man who was preceded in death by his father Leotis Christopher, grandmother Charlene Sims, and loving partner Shelia Miles. He is survived by his loving mother, Birdie Nipper, his treasured daughter, Birdie Rose, his steadfast brothers , Wallace Tidwell, and Randy Smith, and admiring nephew and nieces Wallace Jr, Kaneta, Bobbyann and Nikki. Johnny’s life was enriched by the presence of his cherished grandchildren, Nahaven, Baden, Avery, Miles, and Elijah, who will miss their grandfather’s wisdom, kindness, and laughter. Johnny was a man of many talents and accomplishments. His legacy is evident in the love and respect he garnered from those who knew him. Johnny’s hobbies were as varied and vivid as his personality, and his life was a testament to the power of hard work, passion, and dedication. Johnny was known for his charismatic demeanor and his ability to make everyone feel important and loved. He was a man of integrity who set high standards for himself and inspired others to do the same. His traits were his guiding principles that helped him live a life of fulfillment and joy. Johnny’s life was a beautiful testament to the power of love, resilience, and determination. His personal message would have been one of hope and positivity, urging everyone to live a life filled with laughter, kindness, respect, and love for one another. We want to remember Johnny for his love of life and his unwavering spirit. He believed in the power of kindness and the strength of the human spirit. He was a man of great courage and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. In the coming days, as we mourn the loss of Johnny, let us celebrate his life and the love he shared with us all. His legacy will forever remain in our hearts and memories. Rest in peace, Johnny Otis Johnson. You will be missed but never forgotten.

Rachel L. Washington

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 10:48:58

Rachel Lynn Washington

January 16, 1987 - May 31, 2026

The Washington family is saddened to announce the passing of Rachel Lynn Washington on May 31st, 2026, at age 39. Born on January 16th, 1987, in Portland, Oregon. Rachel was known for her passion and love of Justin Timberlake, foxy women, the Seattle Seahawks, Coca-Cola, Xxtra Flaming Hot Cheetos, cats and dogs, and her family and friends. She was a funny, caring, and passionate woman, and she touched the lives of those around her. She made friends wherever she went, and she’ll be lovingly remembered by her family and friends. Rachel is survived by her brothers, Michael Moody Sr, Derek Kirk Washington Jr, and her nieces and nephews, Timothy Walker Washington, Glenda Marie Washington, Anthony Jaycee Washington, Alyssia Christine Washington-Krein, and Sierra Lilyann Washington-Krein. Her service will be held at Omega Funeral & Cremation Services on June 16th, 2026, from 12 pm-4 pm. There will be a ceremony of dressing, drummers and singers, open viewing, smudging, and prayers. Followed by a dinner service held at Great Spirit United Methodist Church. The family thanks all who are able to attend in her cherished memory.

Elimu N. Jackson

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 14:33:32

Elimu Nyoka Jackson

December 20, 1979 - May 10, 2026

Elimu Nyoka Jackson was called home on Sunday May 10, 2026. Born in Los Angeles, California. Lived in Portland Oregon, where he led an active family life with his 2 children, family and friends. Elimu will be remembered for his artistic spirit, his deep love for his children, and his ability to bring a smile to someone's face when it was needed most. He had a kind heart, a quick sense of humor, and a special gift for making others laugh, especially his daughter, who cherished every silly moment they shared together. He loved his mother, brother, daughter, son and niece deeply and cared for other family and friends in his life in ways both big and small. His creativity, warmth, and generosity left a lasting impression on those who knew him. Whether through a joke, a conversation, a piece of art, or a simple act of kindness, he had a way of making people feel seen and cared for. Like many people, he faced challenges throughout his life and carried burdens that were not always visible to others. Yet beneath those struggles was a man who loved deeply and was deeply loved in return. Those who knew him best remember not only the hardships he endured, but also his laughter, his talents, his gentle heart, and the love he shared with family and friends. Elimu is survived by his mother, Jacqueline Jackson-Freeman; his stepfathers, Larry Freeman and Ondre Matthews; his brother, Omare Matthews; his daughter, Emberlee Love Jackson; and his niece, Sadra Matthews. His Uncles: Elisha Jackson, Stanley Jackson, Gerald Jackson and Ronald Jackson. Aunts: Adama (Babatu) Hight, Carolyn (Abubakar) Bankole, Allysia Williams (daughters’ mother) and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his Grandmother Olivia Jackson, Grandfather Elisha Jackson Jr and son El-imu Jackson Jr. He leaves behind memories that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him. Though his journey was not always easy, his life touched many people, and his presence will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of his family and friends. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the love that remains with us still.

James E. Schrumm

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 09:29:08

James E. "Jim" Schrumm

April 26, 1965 - February 22, 2026

James E “Jim” Schrumm, age 60, son of the late Jack and LeDonna Schrumm. passed away on Sunday February 22, 2026. James was born on April 26, 1965, to Jack and LeDonna Schrumm. He grew up in Portland. He came from a Norwegian family on his mother’s side; a heritage was part of his family’s background and identity. Jim was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church in Portland and identified with the Lutheran faith, which was part of his upbringing and life. He worked as an automotive repair mechanic and worked alongside his father Jack, maintaining rental property. These roles reflected his practical skills and the time he spent contributing to family responsibilities over the years. James lived much of his life in the Portland area, in the family home on Cesar Chavez boulevard, where he cared for his mother until her passing. His family remembered the steady presence he provided over the years. He moved in with his brother Joe after mom’s passing. James enjoyed spending time at his family’s property at Lake Merwin, a place that held special meaning for him as well as visiting the Oregon Coast at Fort Stevens. He was known for his strong personality and being very opinionated, and he did not hesitate to share his views. Those who knew him best understood that beneath his directness was a deep connection to his family and the people closest to him. He enjoyed bowling, Seattle Mariners, Basketball and Football. James was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and LeDonna Schrumm, and his beloved dogs, Melvin and JJ. James is survived by his sister, Janet (Mark) Wiesner, Joseph and Jeffery Schrumm, along with his extended family. At the family’s discretion, services will be private or announced at a later date.

Robert H. Sternberg

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 13:15:30

Robert Harold 'Bob' Sternberg

April 24, 1953 - May 30, 2026

Robert Harold “Bob” Sternberg passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, in Portland, Oregon, at the age of 73. Born on April 24, 1953, in Elgin, Illinois, Bob lived a life defined by adventure, friendship, family, and a deep love for the water. While he spent many years working as a truck driver, those who knew him best knew that his heart was always on the river. As the oldest of four siblings, Bob was remembered by his brothers and sister as a protector, a peacemaker, and someone they could always count on. To them, he was their rock. His siblings recall a brother who was greatly loved and who will be sorely missed. His loss has left a hole in the hearts of those who grew up looking up to him. From an early age, Bob had a love for adventure and fun. Whether it was fast cars, camping trips, scuba diving, boating, or spending time with friends, he was always searching for the next great memory. In the 1970s, alongside his stepfather, siblings, and lifelong friends, Bob earned his scuba certification, creating stories and friendships that would last a lifetime. Those who knew him as a young man remember his adventurous spirit, loyalty, and ability to bring people together. Many of the friendships he formed in his youth remained important to him throughout his life. If there was a place Bob loved most, it was the river. Whether he was on a houseboat, behind the wheel of a ski boat, watching fireworks light up the night sky, or singing karaoke with family and friends, Bob was happiest surrounded by the people he loved. He loved gathering people together, sharing stories, creating memories, and making sure everyone was having a good time. His enthusiasm for life was contagious, and he had a gift for turning ordinary days into unforgettable ones. Bob valued friendship and family above all else. He formed lifelong friendships wherever life took him and left behind countless memories with those fortunate enough to know him. The outpouring of love from friends and family in his final days was a testament to the impact he had on so many lives. To his daughters, Bob was much more than a father. He was a source of unwavering love, strength, support, and guidance. He was the person they could count on, the person who showed up, and the person whose love never had to be questioned. The bond he shared with his daughters was one of the greatest joys of his life, and theirs. Bob will be remembered for his generous heart, adventurous spirit, love of the river, enthusiasm for karaoke, and his ability to turn any gathering into a celebration. Though he will be deeply missed, the stories he created, the friendships he built, and the love he shared will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Bob is survived by his beloved soulmate of 15 years, Vicki Keller; his daughters, Christi Harris and Chelsea Sternberg; his grandchildren, Seaira Harris, Austyn Harris, DJ Harris, Jaidyn Phelps, Sara Harris, and Charly Behnke; his siblings, Pam Lazoff (Gary), Jim Sternberg (Julie), John Sternberg (Debbie), and Larry Mardis; Vicki’s children and grandchildren, whom he loved as family; and many extended family members and dear friends. A memorial and inurnment service honoring Bob’s life will be held on Friday, June 12, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Wilhelm’s Portland Memorial Mausoleum, 6705 SE 14th Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97202. Family and friends are invited to gather afterward to share stories, memories, and celebrate Bob’s life at Platinum Pub, 20101 NE Sandy Boulevard, Fairview, Oregon 97230, following the service. Bob’s family would like to thank everyone who offered their love, support, prayers, visits, stories, and friendship during his final days and in the days following his passing.

Susan J. Meyer

Fri, 22 May 2026 10:15:18

Susan Jeanette Meyer

January 13, 1958 - May 15, 2026

Susan Jeanette Meyer passed away on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the age of 68 in Portland, Oregon, after a sudden stroke. Born in Portland on January 13, 1958, Susan lived in the Portland area, where she led an active family life with three children and six grandchildren. She spent her career in the transportation field, working at UPS and then at TriMet as a bus driver, MAX light rail operator, and streetcar operator. She later worked as an Uber driver to continue her love of driving. Susan was a humble person who did not seek credit or attention, preferring to quietly help others. She dedicated her life to her extended family and the community, always tuned into what others might need or enjoy. She was always learning and growing, seeking to be a better parent, grandparent, friend, and member of the larger human family. She used her own challenges to learn and look for ways to make the world a better place for everyone. Susan was passionate about food security, volunteering with Meals on Wheels and organizing food donations. To teach her children about the beauty of giving, she created a family fund called JARS, named using the initials of her family, to collect change for local food security programs. She also volunteered at church, in the schools, and in community support groups. Even at the end of her life, Susan chose to donate her organs as one final way to care for others, and she was able to donate multiple organs to hopeful recipients. Though she was quiet about her own accomplishments, Susan possessed a creative, vibrant, fun, and adventurous spirit. For those who knew her, “joy" was the word most often used to describe her. She loved painting and crafting, planning parties, organizing games, and pulling pranks to bring laughter to her friends and family. Susan introduced her children and grandchildren to the simple pleasures of bingo, garage sales, early morning Black Friday shopping lines, and the comedy of Jerry Lewis. She loved to walk, and was intimately familiar with the birds, flowers, and trees in every neighborhood she lived in. She was an avid reader. Although most of her life she stayed close to home, in her later years she traveled across the globe to visit family, including overseas. Just days before her passing, she was eagerly planning a trip to Canada, where she had dual citizenship. Susan is survived by her loving children, Jennifer Gilley and her husband, Brian, Ryan Eoff and his wife, Heather, and Andrew Eoff and his wife, Jill. She leaves behind her six grandchildren, Tyler Nicks, Zachary Nicks, Asher Eoff, Ella Eoff, David Eoff, and James Eoff, as well as her great-granddaughter, Evangeline Marie Jewell. She is also survived by her siblings, Donna Meyer and her spouse, Jan Lonnquist, Joan Meyer and her spouse, Lauren Semler, and David Meyer and his spouse, Mai Meyer. Susan was preceded in death by her parents and beloved sister, Jill, who passed away in 1998. Cremation services are scheduled for Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. through Omega Cremation. A Memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at East Hill Church in the Kid City building in Gresham, Oregon. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to local food security programs, such as Meals on Wheels, in honor of Susan's lifelong passion of helping others.

Brown William

Fri, 15 May 2026 16:37:17

Brown William

October 10, 1949 - May 3, 2026

Pahpa Brown’s Obituary

Brown William, 76. Passed away on May 3rd of 2026 at Peace Health Hospital surrounded by family & loved ones by his side. He was born on October 10th of 1949 in Kolonia Pohnpei, Micronesia. He was the second oldest son of the late Alik Brown and Mary Brown. He was united in marriage to the late Damaris (Dannis) William. He was a hard-working man who had gone to New York to receive an outstanding recognition certificate for his dedication & talent in electric engineering. He was an electrician for more than 20 years. He was charming, charismatic, adventurous & was an amazing individual. He had an unmatched ability to bring out the best in everyone he meets. His selflessness & huge heart gravitates the hearts of those near & far, forming a connection with such ease from his natural charm & authenticity. Brown finds joy in everything he embarks upon. It could be just relaxing, listening to music, chit-chatting with a friend or loved ones, taking walks, fixing things or just enjoying God's creation. He was also a godly man, a transitional deacon who loved to spend his time in church, giving back and helping his community wholeheartedly. He was a loving and humorous man, father, brother, son and grandfather to so many. He welcomed others with a smile that lit up a room, a kind heart and warm presence that made people gravitate towards him, one who always knew how to make everyone laugh, at ease & welcomed. He had his own inside jokes with everyone. Teasing his grandkids that they would turn into chickens if they ate too much fried chicken skin. He made sure they went to church and Sunday school, prayed over our family often, and would scold and tease his grandkids if they woke up late for Sunday school. Some favorite memories with him were spending weekends having family dinner together, conversing, laughing, enjoying good food and each other's company. He loved taking his grandchildren on adventures like going to the ice cream shop, car rides for the scenery, camping, and much more. Brown made every moment with him special. He will always be remembered for his kindness, big heart, consideration for others, sense of humor, and calm demeanor but most of all the unwavering love he showed so freely to everyone dear to him. His compassion is truly inspirational. His song might have ended, but his melody lingers with us forever. Brown is survived by his children, Nicky (Kelina), Brainard (Kay), Angie (Dixon), Duke (Cindy) & Kurt His Grandchildren: Daryl, Brikaya Jontel, Damika Bk-lynn, Heaven Braila Angienaya, Zion Brainard Donieu, Dj Alexander, Desamarie Marisa, Danessa May, Yosko, Nicka Zshjeaphatenneace, Keni Jairus, Adrienna, Liliuokalani Trinity, Zachary, Dasha Porchea London Lemari, Zemarion Lemari Great Grandchildren: TeOkailani Raikynn, Tenchiro Oden, Fienne, A’neia, Anfi. His Siblings: ….. Merlusi, Elias, Taylor, Merlina, Merjelina, Koyen, Arlihda, Lilihda & Issac. Predeceased by his late wife Damaris William, (Older brother) Elias & (younger sister) Merjelina & (Nephew) Kneller & (Niece) Jayleen. Goodbye is not forever. Goodbye is not the end. It simply means we will endure a lifetime of missing you until we meet again Pahpa.

Gertrude P. Reusser

Mon, 11 May 2026 13:38:07

Gertrude Palm Reusser

June 6, 1939 - October 21, 2025

Gertrude “Trudy” Reusser left this earth on October 21, 2025 at the age of 86. Trudy is preceded in death by her husband of 34 years, Col. Kenneth Reusser, Sr. and her sister, Winny Spellman. She is survived by her older brother Bernie Palm, several nieces and nephews, and an extensive family tree on the Reusser/Witting side. Trudy was born to Bernhard and Emmi Palm in Gummersbach, Germany and travelled via ship to the U.S. in 1952. Her education took her all the way from Pius High School in Milwaukee, WI to the Wharton School of Business. Trudy lived in Wisconsin, California, Virginia, and finally Oregon and traveled the world for her work with multiple technology companies. In her later years, Trudy’s two largest communities were the Calvary Parkside Church in Beaverton, where she led bible study sessions, and the VFW Auxiliary 4248, where she was both a lifetime member and a past president. Trudy’s hobbies included researching natural health topics for people and animals alike as well as making and selling jewelry. She and Ken shared many joint ventures including building homes at the Oregon Coast, designing and building Ken’s dream house on Cooper Mountain (southwest of Portland), working with farmers and ranchers to heal wounded animals, and several other entrepreneurial pursuits. The love she showed her family and friends was extraordinary; she always remembered birthdays and holidays and often sent thoughtful presents. Even those who knew her casually said that she always greeted them with a smile. She will be deeply missed by many. The family would like to express sincere gratitude to all those who supported Trudy in her final weeks. Condolences and comments are welcome at OmegaServices.com

Travis L. Mills

Tue, 05 May 2026 16:32:20

Travis Lee Mills

September 8, 1989 - December 21, 2025

Travis mills passed away December 21, 2025. He passed peacefully in his sleep. Mother, Cheryl Mills, father Shane Mills, his son Skyler. He was a father, brother, son and cousin. He will be missed. He cared about family and loved them all. He is at peace now with no more problems.

Keith R. Swensen

Mon, 04 May 2026 08:10:36

Keith Roland Swensen

August 1, 1948 - March 21, 2026

Keith Roland Swensen passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, generosity, and deep connection to family, community, and the many lives he impacted.

Keith was born on August 1, 1948, in Portland, Oregon, to Roland E. Swensen and Winifred Rose Frainey Swensen. An only child, Keith shared a close and lifelong bond with his parents. He spent much of his life in the Portland area, where he built strong roots both personally and professionally.

Keith attended Oregon State University before earning his Juris Doctorate in 1974. He went on to practice law for more than 44 years, building a respected career and lasting partnerships, including Thorpe & Swensen and later Swensen & Gray, where he practiced for over two decades.

In December 1974, Keith married Darla Kofner. Together they shared many years and raised one daughter, Andrea. He was also a grandfather to Olivia, whom he loved very much.

Beyond his professional life, Keith was known for his passion for sports- especially rugby- and his unwavering commitment to youth athletics. He played for many years with the Portland Rugby Club (Pigs) and remained a lifelong supporter of Oregon State athletics. More importantly, he dedicated countless hours to coaching, mentoring, and fundraising for youth sports programs. Whether coaching Little League, supporting high school and collegiate programs, or serving as Athletic Director at St. Clare School, Keith believed deeply in the value of sports in shaping young lives and was tireless in giving back to his community.

Keith also had a love for gardening and took great pride in creating and maintaining beautiful outdoor spaces. He found joy in working with his hands and sharing that passion with others.

Proud of his Danish heritage, Keith celebrated it each year with tradition, bringing family and friends together and honoring the culture that meant so much to him.

Keith will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his commitment to helping others, and the lasting impact he made on the many people he coached, mentored, and supported throughout his life.

He is survived by his daughter, Andrea Swensen; his granddaughter, Olivia Rodocker; and his former wife, Darla Swensen.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, May 31 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Eastmoreland Golf Course. All who knew Keith, or whose lives he touched, are warmly invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Keith’s name to Oregon Youth Sports Donate

Judson J. Tibbetts

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 10:15:02

Judson Jay Tibbetts

October 4, 1934 - April 17, 2026

Judson Jay (Bud) Tibbetts, born, October 4, 1934 passed away at the age of 91 years old on April 17, 2026 of congestive heart failure at Heritage Heights Assisted Living in Oregon City, Oregon. He leaves behind his beloved wife Alice Tibbetts (Sally) and five children. Kim Roberts (Clark), Kellie Peterson (Jim), Kris Burns (Ken), Greg Tibbetts (Jody) and Tony Tibbetts (Wendi). Bud also leaves behind 14 grandchildren; Katie, William, Christian, Quinton (deceased), Connor, Collin, Cooper (Alexis), Alex, Sam (Bekkie), Luke, Ben, Nicolle, Jaime (Jay) and Robbie. Also four great grandchildren; Solomon, Willow, Shepherd and Judson. A funeral service will be held at Saint Anthony’s Catholic Church 3720 S.E. 79th Ave. in Portland, Oregon on Friday, May 15th at 12 noon. The family would like to ask that flowers be sent directly to St. Anthony’s Catholic Church the day of the service as Bud loved springtime and flowers. No easels, please. Donations to St. Anthony’s Catholic Church are also welcome.

Margaret M. Dechenne

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 10:33:52

Margaret "Margi" Dechenne

September 30, 1945 - December 29, 2025

One of Portland’s most ardent advocates for unhoused people, Margaret “Margi” Dechenne, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025. She was born on September 30, 1945, in St. Paul, Minnesota, where she was also raised. Margi was preceded in death by her parents, Ted and Grace Kubesh. Margi was married for 47 years to her beloved husband, Tom Dechenne, whom she met when they worked together at Cenex, a farm cooperative in Minnesota. Together they moved from St. Paul to St. John, Washington, and later made the move to their permanent home in Portland, Oregon, in 1979. Margi devoted her life to helping others, especially unhoused children and women. She had a long and deeply respected career in social services, working with United Way and then the Salvation Army’s Greenhouse, a program to help homeless children, which she helped start from its inception alongside former Congresswoman Edith Green. For 20 years Margi led Greenhouse as its executive director, the crowning achievement of her career. The program garnered national attention and inspired many other programs to assist homeless children. When Greenhouse lost its funding and closed its doors, Margi stayed in touch with several of the young people she had worked with, many of whom successfully transitioned off the streets. Margi later worked at Elizabeth House, a group home supporting teen mothers. After Elizabeth House, Margi continued her remarkable career at Catholic Charities’ Housing Transitions Program, where she helped unhoused women find stable housing. Among her many accomplishments at HTP, Margi pioneered Portland’s Kenton Women’s Village, the city’s first tiny home community for the unhoused. She retired from Catholic Charities in 2020. Margi was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend. Her home was always open to a friend in need, and she often invited the Jesuit volunteers from Catholic Charities to stay with her after they finished their year of service. As long as they rooted for her beloved Seattle Mariners (she never missed an opening day), they could stay with her and Tom as long as they wanted. She is survived by her husband, Tom, and her five children: Nick Dechenne, Andrea Dechenne Bergman (Eric), Danielle Dechenne Engles (Jeff), Molly Dechenne (Stephen), and Sam Dechenne (Kay). She is also survived by her treasured grandchildren: Gabrielle, Nina, Henry, Lakshmi, Han, and Didi. She was the silly, fun-loving “G’ma” with a sparkle in her eye. She brought laughter and radical love and acceptance to all who knew her. Margi was truly unique — funny, smart, and always fully present. In addition to being a gifted writer and storyteller, she learned to make soap, sew quilts, bake to perfection (those pies!), and skydive. She was of course a wonderful mother—not only to her own children, but also to the many others who needed her loving, steady presence. By embracing and loving the many homeless children and women she worked with over the years, she showed a traumatized and marginalized group of people that there are people who care about them and won’t give up on them. She will be terribly missed by her family, including her sister, Dianne Hoffman, and her many cherished nieces and nephews, and by the countless people whose lives she touched. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to the Catholic Charities Housing Transitions Program. Housing Transitions - Catholic Charities of Oregon

Artayzah F. Caldwell

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:24:53

Artayzah Fetiece Caldwell

August 6, 1996 - March 13, 2026

Artayzah Fetiece Caldwell, 29, of Tualatin, Oregon, passed away on March 13, 2026, at Meridian Park Hospital. She was born on August 6, 1996, in Springfield, Massachusetts, to Cynthia Marie Caldwell and Arthur Fee Caldwell, Sr. Affectionately known as “Tay,” Artayzah was a compassionate and caring soul who touched the lives of many. She had a natural gift for caregiving and was known for her kindness, empathy and ability to make others feel seen and supported. Tay had a deep love for singing and acting, and she found joy in expressing herself creatively. She also had a special place in her heart for animals, especially rescue animals, and spent much of her time caring for others, both people and pets alike. She will be remembered as a devoted daughter, sister and friend whose warmth, laughter and loving spirit brought comfort and connection to those around her. Artayzah is survived by her loving Mother, Cynthia Marie Caldwell; her siblings, Arthur Anthony Caldwell, William Darnell Fryar, Dominique Jerome Fryar, Arthur Fee Caldwell Jr. (“Little Art”), Justin Jermaine Watson Sr., Mariaha Monique Muckle, Aaron Antoine Caldwell, and Malachi James Fryar; her sister-in-law, Anna Marie Watson; her grandfather, Charles Elwood Fryar Sr.; her aunt, Aretha Lavette Manning; her uncle, Charles Elwood Fryar, Jr. (“Uncle Jr./Hamzah”); first cousin Shaniqwa Renee Fryar; and a large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews who will continue to honor her memory. She was preceded in death by her father, Arthur Fee Caldwell, Sr.; her brother, Orville Horatio Watson, Jr.; and her grandmother, Mabel Louise Fryar. A funeral service will be held on April 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Omega Funeral & Cremation Service 223 SE 122nd Ave, Portland, OR, with burial to follow at 3:00 p.m. at Skyline Memorial Gardens 4101 NW Skyline Blvd, Portland, OR. Artayzah’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Please contact the family or their organizers to send flowers or memorial gifts.