Dey-Guntle Rites Read in Portland
Walla Walla friends will be interested in news of the marriage of Miss Winifred Boyd Guntle, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Glen A. Guntle of Portland, former Walla Wallans, to Ross B. Dey, son of Louis S. Dey of Lorane, Ore.
The rites took place May 10 in the Tritt chapel of the First United Presbyterian church of Portland with the Rev. William Faucette officiating. Mrs. Mary Parker played the wedding music and Mrs. Paul Brownies sang "Always" and "Because."
Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a white wool suit with orchid corsage. She was attended by her sister, Mrs. John J. Thibault, and the candles were lighted by a younger sister, Glenna Berniece Guntle.
Louis S. Dey was best man for his son and usher was Ward P. Guntle, uncle of the bride.
At the reception later, Miss Leota Olney poured and Miss Lena Gaviaxno served cake.
The couple will live on a farm at Lorane, Ore. Mrs. Dey is a graduate of Franklin high school in Portland and studied two years at the Central Washington College of Education at Ellensburg. Her husband, a graduate of Lorane high school, spent six years in the navy where he held rank of fire controlman first class.
Out-of-town guests were Miss Maud Guntle and Ward Guntle of Seattle, Mrs. Edward Olney, Miss Leota Olney and Miss Lena, Gavlarno of Prosser, Miss Barbara Wilkinson of Bremerton, Mr. and Mrs. Louis S. Dey of Lorane and Mrs. John J. Thibault and Miss Janet Thibault of Pocatello.
=======================
Winifred Boyd Guntle Dey was born on January 10, 1927 in Walla Walla, Washington to Glen A. and Berniece (Dillon) Guntle. Winnie lived over 80 meaningful years before passing away from Alzheimer's Disease on December 18, 2007 in Portland, Oregon.
She grew up during the depression and World War II with her parents and two sisters in various rural areas and small towns in eastern and central Washington. She developed a love for the outdoors and animals in early childhood, and she continued to form deep bonds with her many animal friends throughout her life. She particularly enjoyed horses, donkeys, cats and dogs.
It is a blessing that she is now reunited with the love of her life, her late husband Ross Dey, who preceded her in passing by 39 years. Winnie never remarried, focusing her love and energy on her family, friends and career.
Ross and Winnie were married in May 1947. Winnie became an instant mother to Ross' one-year-old son, Rodney Ross. Ross and Winnie quickly had two more children, Carol Ann and Wayne Boyd. Wayne was born on Ross and Winnie's second anniversary when Rod was not quite three years old and Carol was 15 months old. In the early years of her marriage, Winnie was very busy with their children and some of the ranch chores. She was very happy when the last milk cow was sold.
Although she was busy with her young family, Winnie made a new and dear friend, Della Schurger (Rod's grandmother). Della's daughter, Beverly, was Ross' first wife; she died in childbirth. For many years, Winnie and Della lived within two miles of each other in Lorane, Oregon, and they became lifelong friends. Their friendship was an early example of Winnie's inclusiveness and open heart (as well as Della's ).
Winnie's first grandchild was born the day before Ross died. Perhaps because of the timing and perhaps because it was Winnie's nature, she doted on all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren . They spent a lot of time with her at her ranch in Lorane, and later in her home in Eugene and her apartment in Portland.
Winnie also excelled in her educational pursuits and chosen profession. She truly was ahead of her time. Once her children were in school, she went back to college and then worked full-time outside the home. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in History from the University of Oregon in 1957 and a Masters of Librarianship from the University of Washington in 1961. She became an accomplished educator during her 30 years of teaching and being a school librarian. She worked at South Eugene High School for 27 years, rising to the position of Head Librarian. She also taught library classes at the University of Oregon.
Winnie's homes presented significant contrasts. After moving countless times within the state of Washington throughout her childhood, Winnie would ultimately live in Lane County, Oregon for nearly 60 consecutive years. Shortly after Ross and Winnie married, Ross built a house for their growing family on the ranch in Lorane that Ross and his brother, Louis, and their wives (Winnie and Maxine) owned together. Louis, Maxine and their two children lived at one end of the ranch, and Ross, Winnie and their three children lived on another part of the ranch. It was a wonderful place to live, and the five cousins fondly remember meeting at the old walnut tree to play together. After 45 years on the ranch, Winnie moved to Eugene where she lived for the next 13 years. Although it was hard for her to leave the ranch, she liked living in Eugene where she was closer to everyone. Winnie was more positive and adaptable than she realized, because she also enjoyed living in the Portland area, where she lived for almost three years before her death. She was very active and popular in her assisted living home and was very beloved by the Muntean family where she spent her last 15 months.
Winnie Dey was a concerned citizen and an involved member of society. Her community involvement increased after she retired in 1985. She volunteered with various organizations, including Hospice, the Lane County Jail and, for many years, the Lane County Historical Society. She also was active in the Lorane Rebekah Lodge.
She spent over four decades tracing the genealogy of the Guntle and Dey families. She was fascinated with her family history, and spent countless hours researching and documenting it.
Intangibles, however, best define Winnie Dey and her effect on the thousands of people who became part of the huge circle surrounding her life. Whether at school, home, work or during retirement, she emitted an indescribable sense of love and kindness. Winnie gave sanctuary, support and lifelong loyalty to those lucky enough to know her. The following quote is just one example of what she means to her loved ones:
"My life would not have been the same without the kind love and giving of herself she provided to me. She was always there when I was in need, and her love was unconditional."
Winnie's impact on those who became integral parts of her life is incalculable. She was a friend to many, a rescuer to a lucky few, and loyal to everyone who shared her life.
Winnie demonstrated, through action, a strength that would provide to many the will to live and try one's best to survive and succeed against the challenges of life. Conversely, though, Winnie could accept and forgive the inevitable flaws all humans possess. She would then continue to provide the kind of positive support that a husband, father, mother, son, daughter grandchild sister other close relative or friend needs.
Winnie has completed her circle of life with grace and cheerfulness. She will always remain a soul of goodness passing in the wind, and her presence will continue to be felt by all of those within that circle. We rejoice now that she is at peace and no longer in pain. We take solace in knowing she is smiling now on all of us who crossed her path in life. While Winnie's impact and involvement in our daily lives will be sorely missed, she will live on in the heart and soul of each person she touched in her own unique manner.
Winnie's survivors include her daughter Carol Dey Hibbs (and Carol's husband, Jim) of Portland; Winnie's two sons Rodney Ross Dey (and Rod's wife Nancy) of Springfield and Wayne Boyd Dey of Eugene; Winnie's two sisters, Margaret Shelton of Eugene and Glenna Richards of New York City; 12 grandchildren and their spouses; 20 greatgrandchildren ; her brother-inlaw and sister-in-law , Louis and Maxine Dey; many nieces, nephews and other relatives; and numerous friends.
A celebration of Winnie's life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 5, 2008 at DaySpring Fellowship, 1580 River Road, Eugene, Oregon 97404. A private burial will be held in the Fir Grove Cemetery in Cottage Grove on January 4.
Contributions may be made in Winnie's memory to the Alzheimer's Association (Oregon chapter), P.O. Box 4168, Portland, OR 97208 or to the Oregon Humane Society, 88530 Green Hill Road, Eugene, OR 97402.
Winnie's family wishes to express its gratitude to the Muntean family in Portland, who provided loving care to Winnie during her last 15 months. We also thank Odyssey Hospice for their extraordinary kindness and gentleness to Winnie and her family during her last two months.
Walla Walla friends will be interested in news of the marriage of Miss Winifred Boyd Guntle, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Glen A. Guntle of Portland, former Walla Wallans, to Ross B. Dey, son of Louis S. Dey of Lorane, Ore.
The rites took place May 10 in the Tritt chapel of the First United Presbyterian church of Portland with the Rev. William Faucette officiating. Mrs. Mary Parker played the wedding music and Mrs. Paul Brownies sang "Always" and "Because."
Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a white wool suit with orchid corsage. She was attended by her sister, Mrs. John J. Thibault, and the candles were lighted by a younger sister, Glenna Berniece Guntle.
Louis S. Dey was best man for his son and usher was Ward P. Guntle, uncle of the bride.
At the reception later, Miss Leota Olney poured and Miss Lena Gaviaxno served cake.
The couple will live on a farm at Lorane, Ore. Mrs. Dey is a graduate of Franklin high school in Portland and studied two years at the Central Washington College of Education at Ellensburg. Her husband, a graduate of Lorane high school, spent six years in the navy where he held rank of fire controlman first class.
Out-of-town guests were Miss Maud Guntle and Ward Guntle of Seattle, Mrs. Edward Olney, Miss Leota Olney and Miss Lena, Gavlarno of Prosser, Miss Barbara Wilkinson of Bremerton, Mr. and Mrs. Louis S. Dey of Lorane and Mrs. John J. Thibault and Miss Janet Thibault of Pocatello.
=======================
Winifred Boyd Guntle Dey was born on January 10, 1927 in Walla Walla, Washington to Glen A. and Berniece (Dillon) Guntle. Winnie lived over 80 meaningful years before passing away from Alzheimer's Disease on December 18, 2007 in Portland, Oregon.
She grew up during the depression and World War II with her parents and two sisters in various rural areas and small towns in eastern and central Washington. She developed a love for the outdoors and animals in early childhood, and she continued to form deep bonds with her many animal friends throughout her life. She particularly enjoyed horses, donkeys, cats and dogs.
It is a blessing that she is now reunited with the love of her life, her late husband Ross Dey, who preceded her in passing by 39 years. Winnie never remarried, focusing her love and energy on her family, friends and career.
Ross and Winnie were married in May 1947. Winnie became an instant mother to Ross' one-year-old son, Rodney Ross. Ross and Winnie quickly had two more children, Carol Ann and Wayne Boyd. Wayne was born on Ross and Winnie's second anniversary when Rod was not quite three years old and Carol was 15 months old. In the early years of her marriage, Winnie was very busy with their children and some of the ranch chores. She was very happy when the last milk cow was sold.
Although she was busy with her young family, Winnie made a new and dear friend, Della Schurger (Rod's grandmother). Della's daughter, Beverly, was Ross' first wife; she died in childbirth. For many years, Winnie and Della lived within two miles of each other in Lorane, Oregon, and they became lifelong friends. Their friendship was an early example of Winnie's inclusiveness and open heart (as well as Della's ).
Winnie's first grandchild was born the day before Ross died. Perhaps because of the timing and perhaps because it was Winnie's nature, she doted on all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren . They spent a lot of time with her at her ranch in Lorane, and later in her home in Eugene and her apartment in Portland.
Winnie also excelled in her educational pursuits and chosen profession. She truly was ahead of her time. Once her children were in school, she went back to college and then worked full-time outside the home. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in History from the University of Oregon in 1957 and a Masters of Librarianship from the University of Washington in 1961. She became an accomplished educator during her 30 years of teaching and being a school librarian. She worked at South Eugene High School for 27 years, rising to the position of Head Librarian. She also taught library classes at the University of Oregon.
Winnie's homes presented significant contrasts. After moving countless times within the state of Washington throughout her childhood, Winnie would ultimately live in Lane County, Oregon for nearly 60 consecutive years. Shortly after Ross and Winnie married, Ross built a house for their growing family on the ranch in Lorane that Ross and his brother, Louis, and their wives (Winnie and Maxine) owned together. Louis, Maxine and their two children lived at one end of the ranch, and Ross, Winnie and their three children lived on another part of the ranch. It was a wonderful place to live, and the five cousins fondly remember meeting at the old walnut tree to play together. After 45 years on the ranch, Winnie moved to Eugene where she lived for the next 13 years. Although it was hard for her to leave the ranch, she liked living in Eugene where she was closer to everyone. Winnie was more positive and adaptable than she realized, because she also enjoyed living in the Portland area, where she lived for almost three years before her death. She was very active and popular in her assisted living home and was very beloved by the Muntean family where she spent her last 15 months.
Winnie Dey was a concerned citizen and an involved member of society. Her community involvement increased after she retired in 1985. She volunteered with various organizations, including Hospice, the Lane County Jail and, for many years, the Lane County Historical Society. She also was active in the Lorane Rebekah Lodge.
She spent over four decades tracing the genealogy of the Guntle and Dey families. She was fascinated with her family history, and spent countless hours researching and documenting it.
Intangibles, however, best define Winnie Dey and her effect on the thousands of people who became part of the huge circle surrounding her life. Whether at school, home, work or during retirement, she emitted an indescribable sense of love and kindness. Winnie gave sanctuary, support and lifelong loyalty to those lucky enough to know her. The following quote is just one example of what she means to her loved ones:
"My life would not have been the same without the kind love and giving of herself she provided to me. She was always there when I was in need, and her love was unconditional."
Winnie's impact on those who became integral parts of her life is incalculable. She was a friend to many, a rescuer to a lucky few, and loyal to everyone who shared her life.
Winnie demonstrated, through action, a strength that would provide to many the will to live and try one's best to survive and succeed against the challenges of life. Conversely, though, Winnie could accept and forgive the inevitable flaws all humans possess. She would then continue to provide the kind of positive support that a husband, father, mother, son, daughter grandchild sister other close relative or friend needs.
Winnie has completed her circle of life with grace and cheerfulness. She will always remain a soul of goodness passing in the wind, and her presence will continue to be felt by all of those within that circle. We rejoice now that she is at peace and no longer in pain. We take solace in knowing she is smiling now on all of us who crossed her path in life. While Winnie's impact and involvement in our daily lives will be sorely missed, she will live on in the heart and soul of each person she touched in her own unique manner.
Winnie's survivors include her daughter Carol Dey Hibbs (and Carol's husband, Jim) of Portland; Winnie's two sons Rodney Ross Dey (and Rod's wife Nancy) of Springfield and Wayne Boyd Dey of Eugene; Winnie's two sisters, Margaret Shelton of Eugene and Glenna Richards of New York City; 12 grandchildren and their spouses; 20 greatgrandchildren ; her brother-inlaw and sister-in-law , Louis and Maxine Dey; many nieces, nephews and other relatives; and numerous friends.
A celebration of Winnie's life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 5, 2008 at DaySpring Fellowship, 1580 River Road, Eugene, Oregon 97404. A private burial will be held in the Fir Grove Cemetery in Cottage Grove on January 4.
Contributions may be made in Winnie's memory to the Alzheimer's Association (Oregon chapter), P.O. Box 4168, Portland, OR 97208 or to the Oregon Humane Society, 88530 Green Hill Road, Eugene, OR 97402.
Winnie's family wishes to express its gratitude to the Muntean family in Portland, who provided loving care to Winnie during her last 15 months. We also thank Odyssey Hospice for their extraordinary kindness and gentleness to Winnie and her family during her last two months.
Dey-Guntle Rites Read in Portland
Walla Walla friends will be interested in news of the marriage of Miss Winifred Boyd Guntle, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Glen A. Guntle of Portland, former Walla Wallans, to Ross B. Dey, son of Louis S. Dey of Lorane, Ore.
The rites took place May 10 in the Tritt chapel of the First United Presbyterian church of Portland with the Rev. William Faucette officiating. Mrs. Mary Parker played the wedding music and Mrs. Paul Brownies sang "Always" and "Because."
Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a white wool suit with orchid corsage. She was attended by her sister, Mrs. John J. Thibault, and the candles were lighted by a younger sister, Glenna Berniece Guntle.
Louis S. Dey was best man for his son and usher was Ward P. Guntle, uncle of the bride.
At the reception later, Miss Leota Olney poured and Miss Lena Gaviaxno served cake.
The couple will live on a farm at Lorane, Ore. Mrs. Dey is a graduate of Franklin high school in Portland and studied two years at the Central Washington College of Education at Ellensburg. Her husband, a graduate of Lorane high school, spent six years in the navy where he held rank of fire controlman first class.
Out-of-town guests were Miss Maud Guntle and Ward Guntle of Seattle, Mrs. Edward Olney, Miss Leota Olney and Miss Lena, Gavlarno of Prosser, Miss Barbara Wilkinson of Bremerton, Mr. and Mrs. Louis S. Dey of Lorane and Mrs. John J. Thibault and Miss Janet Thibault of Pocatello.
=======================
Winifred Boyd Guntle Dey was born on January 10, 1927 in Walla Walla, Washington to Glen A. and Berniece (Dillon) Guntle. Winnie lived over 80 meaningful years before passing away from Alzheimer's Disease on December 18, 2007 in Portland, Oregon.
She grew up during the depression and World War II with her parents and two sisters in various rural areas and small towns in eastern and central Washington. She developed a love for the outdoors and animals in early childhood, and she continued to form deep bonds with her many animal friends throughout her life. She particularly enjoyed horses, donkeys, cats and dogs.
It is a blessing that she is now reunited with the love of her life, her late husband Ross Dey, who preceded her in passing by 39 years. Winnie never remarried, focusing her love and energy on her family, friends and career.
Ross and Winnie were married in May 1947. Winnie became an instant mother to Ross' one-year-old son, Rodney Ross. Ross and Winnie quickly had two more children, Carol Ann and Wayne Boyd. Wayne was born on Ross and Winnie's second anniversary when Rod was not quite three years old and Carol was 15 months old. In the early years of her marriage, Winnie was very busy with their children and some of the ranch chores. She was very happy when the last milk cow was sold.
Although she was busy with her young family, Winnie made a new and dear friend, Della Schurger (Rod's grandmother). Della's daughter, Beverly, was Ross' first wife; she died in childbirth. For many years, Winnie and Della lived within two miles of each other in Lorane, Oregon, and they became lifelong friends. Their friendship was an early example of Winnie's inclusiveness and open heart (as well as Della's ).
Winnie's first grandchild was born the day before Ross died. Perhaps because of the timing and perhaps because it was Winnie's nature, she doted on all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren . They spent a lot of time with her at her ranch in Lorane, and later in her home in Eugene and her apartment in Portland.
Winnie also excelled in her educational pursuits and chosen profession. She truly was ahead of her time. Once her children were in school, she went back to college and then worked full-time outside the home. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in History from the University of Oregon in 1957 and a Masters of Librarianship from the University of Washington in 1961. She became an accomplished educator during her 30 years of teaching and being a school librarian. She worked at South Eugene High School for 27 years, rising to the position of Head Librarian. She also taught library classes at the University of Oregon.
Winnie's homes presented significant contrasts. After moving countless times within the state of Washington throughout her childhood, Winnie would ultimately live in Lane County, Oregon for nearly 60 consecutive years. Shortly after Ross and Winnie married, Ross built a house for their growing family on the ranch in Lorane that Ross and his brother, Louis, and their wives (Winnie and Maxine) owned together. Louis, Maxine and their two children lived at one end of the ranch, and Ross, Winnie and their three children lived on another part of the ranch. It was a wonderful place to live, and the five cousins fondly remember meeting at the old walnut tree to play together. After 45 years on the ranch, Winnie moved to Eugene where she lived for the next 13 years. Although it was hard for her to leave the ranch, she liked living in Eugene where she was closer to everyone. Winnie was more positive and adaptable than she realized, because she also enjoyed living in the Portland area, where she lived for almost three years before her death. She was very active and popular in her assisted living home and was very beloved by the Muntean family where she spent her last 15 months.
Winnie Dey was a concerned citizen and an involved member of society. Her community involvement increased after she retired in 1985. She volunteered with various organizations, including Hospice, the Lane County Jail and, for many years, the Lane County Historical Society. She also was active in the Lorane Rebekah Lodge.
She spent over four decades tracing the genealogy of the Guntle and Dey families. She was fascinated with her family history, and spent countless hours researching and documenting it.
Intangibles, however, best define Winnie Dey and her effect on the thousands of people who became part of the huge circle surrounding her life. Whether at school, home, work or during retirement, she emitted an indescribable sense of love and kindness. Winnie gave sanctuary, support and lifelong loyalty to those lucky enough to know her. The following quote is just one example of what she means to her loved ones:
"My life would not have been the same without the kind love and giving of herself she provided to me. She was always there when I was in need, and her love was unconditional."
Winnie's impact on those who became integral parts of her life is incalculable. She was a friend to many, a rescuer to a lucky few, and loyal to everyone who shared her life.
Winnie demonstrated, through action, a strength that would provide to many the will to live and try one's best to survive and succeed against the challenges of life. Conversely, though, Winnie could accept and forgive the inevitable flaws all humans possess. She would then continue to provide the kind of positive support that a husband, father, mother, son, daughter grandchild sister other close relative or friend needs.
Winnie has completed her circle of life with grace and cheerfulness. She will always remain a soul of goodness passing in the wind, and her presence will continue to be felt by all of those within that circle. We rejoice now that she is at peace and no longer in pain. We take solace in knowing she is smiling now on all of us who crossed her path in life. While Winnie's impact and involvement in our daily lives will be sorely missed, she will live on in the heart and soul of each person she touched in her own unique manner.
Winnie's survivors include her daughter Carol Dey Hibbs (and Carol's husband, Jim) of Portland; Winnie's two sons Rodney Ross Dey (and Rod's wife Nancy) of Springfield and Wayne Boyd Dey of Eugene; Winnie's two sisters, Margaret Shelton of Eugene and Glenna Richards of New York City; 12 grandchildren and their spouses; 20 greatgrandchildren ; her brother-inlaw and sister-in-law , Louis and Maxine Dey; many nieces, nephews and other relatives; and numerous friends.
A celebration of Winnie's life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 5, 2008 at DaySpring Fellowship, 1580 River Road, Eugene, Oregon 97404. A private burial will be held in the Fir Grove Cemetery in Cottage Grove on January 4.
Contributions may be made in Winnie's memory to the Alzheimer's Association (Oregon chapter), P.O. Box 4168, Portland, OR 97208 or to the Oregon Humane Society, 88530 Green Hill Road, Eugene, OR 97402.
Winnie's family wishes to express its gratitude to the Muntean family in Portland, who provided loving care to Winnie during her last 15 months. We also thank Odyssey Hospice for their extraordinary kindness and gentleness to Winnie and her family during her last two months.
Walla Walla friends will be interested in news of the marriage of Miss Winifred Boyd Guntle, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Glen A. Guntle of Portland, former Walla Wallans, to Ross B. Dey, son of Louis S. Dey of Lorane, Ore.
The rites took place May 10 in the Tritt chapel of the First United Presbyterian church of Portland with the Rev. William Faucette officiating. Mrs. Mary Parker played the wedding music and Mrs. Paul Brownies sang "Always" and "Because."
Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a white wool suit with orchid corsage. She was attended by her sister, Mrs. John J. Thibault, and the candles were lighted by a younger sister, Glenna Berniece Guntle.
Louis S. Dey was best man for his son and usher was Ward P. Guntle, uncle of the bride.
At the reception later, Miss Leota Olney poured and Miss Lena Gaviaxno served cake.
The couple will live on a farm at Lorane, Ore. Mrs. Dey is a graduate of Franklin high school in Portland and studied two years at the Central Washington College of Education at Ellensburg. Her husband, a graduate of Lorane high school, spent six years in the navy where he held rank of fire controlman first class.
Out-of-town guests were Miss Maud Guntle and Ward Guntle of Seattle, Mrs. Edward Olney, Miss Leota Olney and Miss Lena, Gavlarno of Prosser, Miss Barbara Wilkinson of Bremerton, Mr. and Mrs. Louis S. Dey of Lorane and Mrs. John J. Thibault and Miss Janet Thibault of Pocatello.
=======================
Winifred Boyd Guntle Dey was born on January 10, 1927 in Walla Walla, Washington to Glen A. and Berniece (Dillon) Guntle. Winnie lived over 80 meaningful years before passing away from Alzheimer's Disease on December 18, 2007 in Portland, Oregon.
She grew up during the depression and World War II with her parents and two sisters in various rural areas and small towns in eastern and central Washington. She developed a love for the outdoors and animals in early childhood, and she continued to form deep bonds with her many animal friends throughout her life. She particularly enjoyed horses, donkeys, cats and dogs.
It is a blessing that she is now reunited with the love of her life, her late husband Ross Dey, who preceded her in passing by 39 years. Winnie never remarried, focusing her love and energy on her family, friends and career.
Ross and Winnie were married in May 1947. Winnie became an instant mother to Ross' one-year-old son, Rodney Ross. Ross and Winnie quickly had two more children, Carol Ann and Wayne Boyd. Wayne was born on Ross and Winnie's second anniversary when Rod was not quite three years old and Carol was 15 months old. In the early years of her marriage, Winnie was very busy with their children and some of the ranch chores. She was very happy when the last milk cow was sold.
Although she was busy with her young family, Winnie made a new and dear friend, Della Schurger (Rod's grandmother). Della's daughter, Beverly, was Ross' first wife; she died in childbirth. For many years, Winnie and Della lived within two miles of each other in Lorane, Oregon, and they became lifelong friends. Their friendship was an early example of Winnie's inclusiveness and open heart (as well as Della's ).
Winnie's first grandchild was born the day before Ross died. Perhaps because of the timing and perhaps because it was Winnie's nature, she doted on all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren . They spent a lot of time with her at her ranch in Lorane, and later in her home in Eugene and her apartment in Portland.
Winnie also excelled in her educational pursuits and chosen profession. She truly was ahead of her time. Once her children were in school, she went back to college and then worked full-time outside the home. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in History from the University of Oregon in 1957 and a Masters of Librarianship from the University of Washington in 1961. She became an accomplished educator during her 30 years of teaching and being a school librarian. She worked at South Eugene High School for 27 years, rising to the position of Head Librarian. She also taught library classes at the University of Oregon.
Winnie's homes presented significant contrasts. After moving countless times within the state of Washington throughout her childhood, Winnie would ultimately live in Lane County, Oregon for nearly 60 consecutive years. Shortly after Ross and Winnie married, Ross built a house for their growing family on the ranch in Lorane that Ross and his brother, Louis, and their wives (Winnie and Maxine) owned together. Louis, Maxine and their two children lived at one end of the ranch, and Ross, Winnie and their three children lived on another part of the ranch. It was a wonderful place to live, and the five cousins fondly remember meeting at the old walnut tree to play together. After 45 years on the ranch, Winnie moved to Eugene where she lived for the next 13 years. Although it was hard for her to leave the ranch, she liked living in Eugene where she was closer to everyone. Winnie was more positive and adaptable than she realized, because she also enjoyed living in the Portland area, where she lived for almost three years before her death. She was very active and popular in her assisted living home and was very beloved by the Muntean family where she spent her last 15 months.
Winnie Dey was a concerned citizen and an involved member of society. Her community involvement increased after she retired in 1985. She volunteered with various organizations, including Hospice, the Lane County Jail and, for many years, the Lane County Historical Society. She also was active in the Lorane Rebekah Lodge.
She spent over four decades tracing the genealogy of the Guntle and Dey families. She was fascinated with her family history, and spent countless hours researching and documenting it.
Intangibles, however, best define Winnie Dey and her effect on the thousands of people who became part of the huge circle surrounding her life. Whether at school, home, work or during retirement, she emitted an indescribable sense of love and kindness. Winnie gave sanctuary, support and lifelong loyalty to those lucky enough to know her. The following quote is just one example of what she means to her loved ones:
"My life would not have been the same without the kind love and giving of herself she provided to me. She was always there when I was in need, and her love was unconditional."
Winnie's impact on those who became integral parts of her life is incalculable. She was a friend to many, a rescuer to a lucky few, and loyal to everyone who shared her life.
Winnie demonstrated, through action, a strength that would provide to many the will to live and try one's best to survive and succeed against the challenges of life. Conversely, though, Winnie could accept and forgive the inevitable flaws all humans possess. She would then continue to provide the kind of positive support that a husband, father, mother, son, daughter grandchild sister other close relative or friend needs.
Winnie has completed her circle of life with grace and cheerfulness. She will always remain a soul of goodness passing in the wind, and her presence will continue to be felt by all of those within that circle. We rejoice now that she is at peace and no longer in pain. We take solace in knowing she is smiling now on all of us who crossed her path in life. While Winnie's impact and involvement in our daily lives will be sorely missed, she will live on in the heart and soul of each person she touched in her own unique manner.
Winnie's survivors include her daughter Carol Dey Hibbs (and Carol's husband, Jim) of Portland; Winnie's two sons Rodney Ross Dey (and Rod's wife Nancy) of Springfield and Wayne Boyd Dey of Eugene; Winnie's two sisters, Margaret Shelton of Eugene and Glenna Richards of New York City; 12 grandchildren and their spouses; 20 greatgrandchildren ; her brother-inlaw and sister-in-law , Louis and Maxine Dey; many nieces, nephews and other relatives; and numerous friends.
A celebration of Winnie's life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 5, 2008 at DaySpring Fellowship, 1580 River Road, Eugene, Oregon 97404. A private burial will be held in the Fir Grove Cemetery in Cottage Grove on January 4.
Contributions may be made in Winnie's memory to the Alzheimer's Association (Oregon chapter), P.O. Box 4168, Portland, OR 97208 or to the Oregon Humane Society, 88530 Green Hill Road, Eugene, OR 97402.
Winnie's family wishes to express its gratitude to the Muntean family in Portland, who provided loving care to Winnie during her last 15 months. We also thank Odyssey Hospice for their extraordinary kindness and gentleness to Winnie and her family during her last two months.
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