Keizer Funeral Chapel

Keizer Funeral Chapel Keizer Funeral Chapel is a full service funeral and cremation provider with a crematory on-site prou Celebrating life is our mission. That’s never changed.

We at Keizer Funeral Chapel are privileged to be serving the Keizer/Salem and surrounding communities. We appreciate your confidence in our firm, and are committed to providing the most caring, compassionate, and professional funeral service possible to every family that places their trust in us. Keizer Funeral Chapel was established years ago, and serving families has always been our focus. We take pride in being able to guide people through some of their most difficult days. We take pride in maintaining a setting that allows people to find solace. And with pride, it never will. We've learned a lot over many years. Like how to present options without overwhelming. And how to meet the needs of many caring parties. People come to us in difficult times, and we respond with kindness, calmness, and expertise. Our goal is to create a beautiful occasion and make you feel welcome, always. We spend our days planning with families. We stay up to date with industry developments. And we make hard times a little easier. Visit the home to speak with a staff member at 4365 River Rd N Keizer, OR 97303 or you can call to schedule an appointment (503) 393-7037.

Richard C. Hohnbaum, JrDick Hohnbaum was born on September 13, 1932, in LaJunta, Colorado. Dick, adopted older brother G...
12/19/2025

Richard C. Hohnbaum, Jr

Dick Hohnbaum was born on September 13, 1932, in LaJunta, Colorado. Dick, adopted older brother George and his parents moved to Tacoma. Dick graduated from the University of Puget Sound with a BA in Social work where he met his first wife, Marilyn Glee Callahan at a campus social event. They married in 1953 and moved to the Spokane Indian Reservation where he worked as a social case worker until 1956.

Their oldest son, Rick Arthur, was born in January of 1956 and their daughter Kathleen Marie in July of 1957. In 1957, Dick began a 33-year teaching career. After 3 years in Camas, Washington, Dick and Glee moved their growing family to the tiny fishing village of Cordova, Alaska. Kevin James joined the family in December of 1960, and Michael Lee in May of 1962.

After 7 years in Cordova, the family moved to Woodburn, Oregon, where Dick became the first male 1st grade teacher and eventually, the 1st male kindergarten teacher in Oregon. Dick taught two of his own kids in 4th grade while in Alaska, and retired in 1982 after having one of his granddaughters in his kindergarten class. Glee passed away from cancer in 1977.

In June of 1978 Dick married Clara Mae Brown (sons Eric, Rex and Ben). They divorced in 1981. In 1982 Dick married United Methodist pastor LaVernae Dick (sons Stephen, Tom and Wendell) and they served 5 different churches in the Willamette Valley. LaVernae passed away due to an accident in May of 1992.

On January 2nd, 1993, Dick married Catherine Joy McKennan and welcomed her son Barron and daughter Karen to the family.

Dick was a life-long member of the United Methodist Church. He was very active in the Oregon Chapter of the Lewis and Clark Trail Heritage Foundation, serving as editor and publisher of the chapter's newsletter and as treasurer for nearly 20 years. He also volunteered at the Willamette Heritage Center and Mission Mill Museum in Salem reenacting an 1860s schoolmaster.

Dick loved to sing and in addition to various church choirs, spent 24 years as a member and the general manager for the Salem-area 80 member Just For Fun Singers. Dick and Cathy lived in Keizer and attended Clear Lake United Methodist Church for most of their 33 years together.

Dick leaves a large family at the time of his passing on December 15, 2025 - 4 children, 2 stepchildren, 13 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at Keizer Clear Lake United Methodist Church, 7920 Wheatland Rd N, Keizer, Oregon 97303, at 2:00 pm on Friday, January 9th. Donations can be made in Dick's honor to Shriner's Hospital.

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Marjorie Elizabeth HoltMarjorie "Marge" Holt, 89, the beloved matriarch of her family, quietly passed away on December 4...
12/18/2025

Marjorie Elizabeth Holt

Marjorie "Marge" Holt, 89, the beloved matriarch of her family, quietly passed away on December 4, 2025.

Marge was born in Hubbard, Oregon, the second of two children. She attended a one-room schoolhouse in Mt. Angel, where students were taught first through eighth grade together. An exceptional student, Marge studied alongside older classmates, and her teacher encouraged her parents, Daniel and Goldie, to advance her from third grade directly to fifth grade.

Her family later moved several times throughout the Willamette Valley, ultimately settling in Eugene, where Marge graduated from high school in 1953. She went on to take extensive business courses and successfully completed a state civil service test. That fall, she began working for the State of Oregon Vocational Rehabilitation Division and later transferred to Salem in June to work in the Disability Determination Section, a newly implemented part of the Social Security program. This opportunity brought her to Salem, where she would build both her career and her life.

While living in Salem, Marge met her future husband through her roommate's boyfriend. The match was perfect, as Leroy "Roy" Holt had just returned to the area from his service in the U.S. Navy. Marge and Roy were married in June 1957.

Together they raised three children: Sherie, Michael, and Susan. Marge continued her career working for Legislative Counsel in the bill drafting and publication office of the Oregon Legislature and later finished her career in the payroll and personnel section.

Marge and Roy enjoyed a wonderful retirement, spending time doing the things they loved most. They especially cherished their time on the Oregon coast, where they kept a fishing boat, and at their property on the Abiqua, always sharing these special places with friends and family.

Marge deeply loved her family and never missed an opportunity to spend time with and support her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in all aspects of their lives. She was a strong and remarkable woman who radiated positivity and love. Her laughter, joyful giggle, and enduring strength will forever remain her legacy.

Marge is survived by her three children, Sherie, Michael, and Susan, and their spouses; five grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy, surrounding her with entertainment and many hugs throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Roy; her grandson, Christopher; and her brother, Donald Connelly.

Services are pending. Burial will be private with family inurnment.

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Kathleen Therese FabosKathleen Desmarteau Fabos, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025,vat home, holding hands wit...
12/12/2025

Kathleen Therese Fabos

Kathleen Desmarteau Fabos, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025,vat home, holding hands with her loving husband in Keizer, Oregon. She was born on February 8, 1951, in Woodinville, Washington, to Edward and Dorothy Desmarteau.

Kathleen grew up in a large and loving family alongside her siblings David, Dorothy, John, Barbara, Karen, MaryAnne, and Edward. She attended St. Joseph's Grade School, Sacred Heart Academy, and later earned her degree from Western Oregon University, setting the foundation for her lifelong dedication to education, children, faith, and service.

Kathleen married the love of her life, Gregory Fabos, on December 24, 1991, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church. She was a devoted mother to Jacinda and Joseph Forster, and a caring stepmother to Kristin, Joy, and Jamie Fabos. Her joys were her nine grandchildren and one great-grandson, all of whom brought immense pride to her life.

For 30 years, Kathleen served as an elementary school teacher, most recently at Chapman Hill School, where she touched countless young lives with her patience, compassion, and unwavering positivity. Even after retirement, she continued giving back as a substitute teacher and as a faithful parish song leader, and eucharistic minister, sharing both her voice and her generous spirit with the community.

Kathleen's passions were as vibrant as her personality. She loved music, opera, concerts, karaoke, and singing, any opportunity to lift her beautiful voice and the spirits of those around her. She cherished time spent with family and friends, and she especially loved being outdoors, where she found joy in golf, biking, hiking, skiing, time on the beach and cheering on Oregon Duck football. Her dream was simple and beautiful: to live happily alongside her mutual best friend and soulmate husband in Oregon and Florida.

Kathleen was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Dorothy Desmarteau, and her sister Barbara. She will be remembered for her radiant smile, her loving heart, her positive attitude, and the kindness she shared with everyone she met.

A Solemn Funeral Mass will be celebrated on December 30, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with Reception to follow at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Parish Center, in Salem, Oregon. Inurnment will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Hilltop Cemetery in Independence, Oregon.

Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, Oregon Public Broadcasting, Feed the Children, or Catholic Charities; causes close to Kathleen's loving heart.

View Kathleen Therese Fabos's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Mariah Lester✨ In Loving Memory of Mariah Noreen "Beans" Lester ✨May 19, 1993 - December 1, 2025.Mariah Noreen Lester, l...
12/10/2025

Mariah Lester

✨ In Loving Memory of Mariah Noreen "Beans" Lester ✨

May 19, 1993 - December 1, 2025.

Mariah Noreen Lester, lovingly known as Beans, was born on May 19, 1993, in Bismarck, North Dakota, weighing 7 pounds, 3 ounces.

She fought for her life since she was born, her strong spirit brought her out other near death experiences she had a strong spirit for life.

Mariah was the comical middle child of her family. She is survived by her mother, Hannah Shooting Bear; her father, Gerald Lester; her older brother, Alonzo; her younger brother, Dominic; her niece Crystal Shooting Bear, her nephew AJ Shooting Bear, her beloved daughter, Jordyn Leigh Mendoza whom she loved very much, along with 2 ½ sisters and 1 ½ brother.

Mariah had a gentle heart and a curious spirit. She enjoyed watching paranormal videos, listening to music, spending quiet time coloring and journaling, and she especially loved animals that included playing with Tanner, Nermal and CeCe which brought her comfort.

She was also proud to support her community, by helping with Indigenous NOW events over the past two years.

Mariah faced many challenges throughout life, she held onto hope for healing and a future in recovery

Above all, her spirit and presence will be profoundly missed.

Memorial Service

2 to 4 pm

Keizer Funeral Chapel

4365 River Road N.

Keizer, Oregon 97303

Meal to follow (Location TBD)

Traditional Ceremony

10 am

Location/Meet -

45th Parallel

2195 Hyacinth St NE, Salem, OR

*The Traditional Ceremony is RSVP only.

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Rodney E SwinehartRodney E. Swinehart age 75 of Keizer, Oregon died peacefully on December 2, 2025 surrounded by family ...
12/04/2025

Rodney E Swinehart

Rodney E. Swinehart age 75 of Keizer, Oregon died peacefully on December 2, 2025 surrounded by family and his care team. Rod was born in Wyandot County, Ohio as the 2nd child to the late Darrell and Christina Swinehart. Rod grew up in Sycamore and the family later moved to Nevada, Ohio where he was a star player on the Wynford football team, earning a scholarship to play at the College of William & Mary. Rod decided to enlist in the Army and served his country from 1969-1972, in Okinawa during the Vietnam era.

Upon his return Rod traveled around the country hitch hiking with friends looking for a place to call home. After some time he landed in Monmouth Oregon with his lifelong friends Jim Rawlins and Dan Young, enrolling in classes at OCE (now WOU). It was there that he began dating Joanne Erickson in December of 1973, they married in April of 1974 and were married for over 51 years. In 1978 they welcomed their first child, Ben and in 1981 a daughter, Andrea.

Rod worked for the Marion County Sheriffs office and eventually the Marion County Corrections and Courthouse throughout the majority of his career. He had an enormous amount of pride for the work he did to establish and organize the internationally recognized Willamette Valley Adult Threat Advisory Team as well as being a years-long member of the Mid-Valley Student Threat Assessment Team, both teams work towards the assessment, management and mitigation of school and public safety threats. In his work and his personal life, Rod was always a protector and guardian.

Rod was a 2nd degree black belt in American Kenpo, teaching for many years. He played on softball teams and won many chili cookoffs. He loved being on his boat, fishing at Ten Mile lake. And, he never missed a football game featuring The Ohio State Buckeyes. In his final days he was happy knowing that the Buckeyes were victorious over the team up north.

Rod is survived by his wife Joanne (Erickson) Swinehart. Son, Ben (Lindsey) Swinehart of Portland and daughter Andrea Swinehart also of Portland. Rod was a very proud grandfather to Ivy and Henry Swinehart. He is also survived by his beloved brother Brian (LuAnn) Swinehart of Marion, OH.

A memorial service for Rod will be held at Salem Evangelical Church (3rd floor) on December 20th at 11:00. In lieu of flowers Rod asked that donations be made to Tunnels to Towers.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to his incredible care team at Mark Comfort Homes: Divine, Peter, Beatrice and Francis for their warm compassion and Willamette Vital Health for their support.

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Donetta May ZeazeasDonetta May Zeazeas (Beal)May 24, 1932 - October 28, 2025Donna was born in Weiser, Idaho to Lyle and ...
10/30/2025

Donetta May Zeazeas

Donetta May Zeazeas (Beal)

May 24, 1932 - October 28, 2025

Donna was born in Weiser, Idaho to Lyle and Mildred Beal. She leaves behind her son Michael, brother-in-law Albert (Jerry) Robinson, sister-in-law Judith Robinson, numerous nieces and nephews and her dog Cossy. She was preceded by her husband Michael (Mike), daughter Julie, son Steven and Brother James Beal. Donna and Mike tended to stay close to home to help their disabled son if needed; when Mike Jr became disabled in 1974 it changed their lives completely. They enjoyed drives in the country, in the spring looking for fields of wildflowers or just enjoying country roads or finding out-of-the-way diners to try.

They often took short day-trips;

· One favorite they liked was going up highway 22 to Marion Forks then coming home via highway 20 to Cascade Gateway Highway then back to Salem via Silverton.

· Another favorite was highway 22 to Lincoln City, clam chowder at Moe's, highway 101 to Newport, highway 20 to junction with highway 223 (Kings Valley Highway) to Dallas, then back through Independence to Salem via the Independence bridge across the Willamette River.

When Julie got too sick to live alone she moved back home with Donna and Mike, Donna being one of her caregivers, when Julie's care became too difficult Julie moved in with Mike Jr until her death in 2010.

After Mike died in 2014 Donna and her dog (Cossy) moved in with their son (Mike Jr) where she lived the remainder of her life.

Donna enjoyed spending time with family and friends, gardening, bird watching, watching Hallmark movies on TV and reading. A private family service will be held at a later date.

Donna's brother-in-law (Jerry) bought bricks in Pioneer Square in downtown Portland for the entire Zeazeas family, use the brick locator website ( www.thesquarepdx.org/find-my-brick ) to locate family bricks. Use Zeazeas as search criteria.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to the ALS Society of Oregon ( alsnorthwest.org ) in names of Julie and

Donetta Zeazeas.

Arrangements entrusted to Keizer Funeral Chapel & Cremation Services.

Online condolences may be left at www.keizerchapel.com

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John Michael MillerJohn Michael Miller, age 66, passed on from this world in the early morning hours of October 18, 2025...
10/28/2025

John Michael Miller

John Michael Miller, age 66, passed on from this world in the early morning hours of October 18, 2025 in Salem, Oregon. He was born in Gold Beach, Oregon on September 10, 1959 to Gilmer and Joan Miller and grew up as the fourth of five sons, settling in the Gervais area in 1966. After graduation from Gervais Union High School, he joined the US Army, trained as a helicopter mechanic and served at Fort Lewis and served in Germany with the 501st Aviation Battalion. In 1980, he married Mary Gardner and together they raised four children in the Keizer area.

John had many interests including fishing, gold panning, coins and history. The peace and solitude of the outdoors were a constant draw for him and in 2012 he found the perfect fit when he became an Oregon State Park Ranger stationed in the Santiam Canyon and worked there until health issues forced him into retirement. John's large presence will be missed by his many friends and his family, especially at the holiday dinner table. He treasured his family and friends and he had so many, as shown by the outpouring of support he received during his recent illness.

John was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Monte Miller and David Miller. He is survived by children Karen (Cody) Orton, James (Alayna) Miller, Brian (Sara) Miller and Laura (Brandon) Pike, his brothers Tony Miller and Cole Allen Miller and many much loved nieces and nephews. He was also a proud and enthusiastic grandfather to Frank, Emma, Claire, Maeve and Maren.

A reception to honor John's life will be held at 1:00 on October 30, 2025 at the Keizer Elks Lodge.

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Theresa Ann GrecoTheresa Ann Duncan, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on October 2, 2025, in...
10/17/2025

Theresa Ann Greco

Theresa Ann Duncan, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on October 2, 2025, in Salem, Oregon, at the age of 62. She was born on September 8, 1963, in Amarillo, Texas, and throughout her life, she brought warmth, laughter, and light to everyone who knew her.

Theresa was known for her friendly nature, quick wit, creativity, and timeless beauty. A true perfectionist, she poured her heart into everything she did-whether it was her work, her home, or the people she loved. She had a sharp eye for detail, a love for Holidays and gatherings, and a spirit that made others feel welcome wherever she went.

For more than 30 years, Theresa built a meaningful career in the hospitality industry, where her professionalism and warmth left a lasting impression on countless colleagues and guests. She dedicated over 20 years to the Salem Convention Center, where she was admired for her commitment, grace, and impeccable work ethic.

Theresa's greatest pride was her family. She is survived by her two daughters, Amber Duncan and D'Avonie Greco, both of Keizer, Oregon; her grandchildren, Zachary and Jasmine; her brothers, Tim (Sue) Duncan of Massachusetts, Jamie (Margaret) Caulfield of Washington, and John Caulfield of Oregon; her sisters, Maureen (Lonnie) Nunley of Washington and Maggie (Gordon) Schneekloth of Oregon; her dearest friend, Rhonda Braley of Washington; and many more friends, family, and colleagues whose lives she touched deeply.

Theresa will be remembered for her strength, humor, and unwavering love. Her legacy lives on in her daughters and grandchildren, and in the countless hearts she brightened along the way.

A Celebration of Life honoring Theresa will be held on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. at the Salem Convention Center in Salem, Oregon. 200 Commercial Street SE, Salem, Or. 97301 in the Willamette Ballroom upstairs. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend. Theresa loved cobalt blue, and we'd be honored if we could fill the room with blue in her memory.

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Lee Odis BoswellLee Odis (Russell) Boswell was born on February 13, 1936, in Okemah, Oklahoma to Henry and Otha Russell....
10/17/2025

Lee Odis Boswell

Lee Odis (Russell) Boswell was born on February 13, 1936, in Okemah, Oklahoma to Henry and Otha Russell. Lee was twelve minutes younger than her twin sister, Dee Odis. The doctor came out in a buggy and charged $25.00 to deliver the pair-$12.50 each. Although very close with her parents and older brother Alan and her younger brother, Ron-Lee and Dee shared a bond that only twins can know. They were not whole unless together.

Lee grew up in Taft, California and attended the Foursquare church. The very large Russell clan of 9 uncles, aunts, and cousins galore made for wonderful holidays and family gatherings.

She also lived In Ventura, California, was a cigarette girl in Vegas, a 911 operator in Dallas, Oregon, and a dental assistant in Palmdale, California and then in Enumclaw, Washington. After many years as a bookkeeper in Salem, Oregon, Lee retired early and moved to Oklahoma when husband, Robert Boswell, taught at the FAA school. Lee loved swimming, tennis, riding bikes, animals, and painting. As a talented artist, Lee shared her love for painting with lessons to her great granddaughters.

Her deep love of Christ caused Lee to pray and pray for each family member and friend. She was a saint and prayer warrior. Oh, how Lee loved Jesus and wants each of us with her in Heaven.

Lee's family was blended, and she called them all her own. She is survived by daughter Margie and her son Clint. Son Gary and his wife Tina, plus 3 grandchildren, Brad, Christy, and Danny and 5-great grandchildren. Daughter Connie, her son Scott and his 2 children, Amelia and Nick. Daughter Lori, her two children, Kelli and Derek, and Kelli's two daughters, Saija and Rosie. Son Zachary, his daughter Kari and her 2 children. Son David. Last is Tammy, her husband Dan, and their two children, Bree and Dusty, and Bree's three girls, Sutton, Isla, and Callan. That's a total of 7 kids, 10 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.

While asleep at her home in Keizer, Oregon, Lee went home to be with the Lord on 10/06/2025.The graveside service is on 10-21-25 in Taft California and a Celebration of Life service will be held at Lee's beloved church, Jesus our Jubilee in Salem, Oregon on 11-12-25.

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Cara Nikoel Elam
10/15/2025

Cara Nikoel Elam

View Cara Nikoel Elam's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Robert Charles WickmanRobert Charles WickmanMarch 25, 1931 to October 10, 2025Robert "BOB" Wickman was born on March 25,...
10/13/2025

Robert Charles Wickman

Robert Charles Wickman

March 25, 1931 to October 10, 2025

Robert "BOB" Wickman was born on March 25, 1931 in Aitkin, Minnesota to Arnold and Wenona Wickman, where he lived with his older brother Don, until age 15. Growing up he enjoyed snow skiing and ice skating in the winter and fishing and hunting in the warmer months. In 1947, during his sophomore year in high school, his family moved to Salem, Oregon where he attended Salem High School. It was at that time that he met Jeanette Scheidel who would later become his wife. After graduating high school in 1949, he worked at a local service station until age 19. Knowing that he might soon be drafted he chose to enlist in the Navy. He attended Boot Camp and then Hospital Corps School at the Navy Hospital in San Diego, California. He then received orders to the Marine Corps Field Medic Training program at Camp Pendleton and completed his training as a Combat Medic by the time he was 22 years old. He arrived in Korea in June 1953 and was there until June of 1954. His first duty was with Item Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines. The experience of combat changed his life forever but he said serving with the Marines was the best duty he ever had.

After being discharged he attended college for three years, but did not complete his degree. He married Jeanette Scheidel in March 1955 and together they had three children. Kari Williams (Dan deceased), a retired registered nurse, Kevin (Karla), a retired deputy fire chief, Kris (Pam), a retired police detective. They celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in March of this year.

Bob spent most of his adult life working in retail following in the footsteps of his father. He worked at GI Surplus store, owned and operated Four Corners JarHead, and later worked at Keizer True Value. He was also a Volunteer Firefighter EMT for Keizer Fire District for nearly 13 years serving as their Medical Officer for much of that time. He then served as a member of the Fire District's Board of Directors for 6 years. The Keizer Fire District's "Bob Wickman Life Saving Award" is named in his honor. He was active in the 1st Marine Division Association and the Korean War Veteran's Association.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, brother, son in law and a grandson. He is survived by his wife of 70 Years, three children, eight grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren. At his request he will be laid to rest at Willamette National Cemetery.

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Jerry HowardIn Loving Memory of Richard Gerald "Jerry" HowardNovember 26, 1942 - October 7, 2025Richard Gerald Howard, l...
10/08/2025

Jerry Howard

In Loving Memory of Richard Gerald "Jerry" Howard

November 26, 1942 - October 7, 2025

Richard Gerald Howard, lovingly known as "Jerry" and affectionately called "Howie" by his friends and colleagues, passed peacefully unto the Lord on October 7, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with illness. He was 82 years old.

A proud resident of Cottage Grove, Oregon, Jerry lived a life defined by service, passion, and purpose. A four-sport athlete in his youth, Jerry's lifelong passion was baseball. For the past 20 years, he lived his dream by working in Professional Baseball with the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes. As a beloved member of the Volcanoes' front office, he created one of the most comprehensive annual Military Tributes in Minor League Baseball. His efforts were nationally recognized when the Northwest League honored him for three consecutive years, culminating in receiving the prestigious Charles K. Murphy Patriot Award in 2019. That December, in front of over 3,000 peers at the Baseball Winter Meetings in San Diego, Minor League Baseball President Pat O'Conner presented the award to Jerry, who gave a heartfelt and memorable acceptance speech.

Jerry was a proud graduate of the University of Oregon and a devoted Oregon Ducks fan. From 1961 to 1966, he honorably served in the U.S. military, including a special assignment on President Lyndon B. Johnson's ranch. Following his service, he became a professional baseball umpire, officiating thousands of games across multiple leagues. Among his proudest moments was being selected to umpire at the Olympic Games, where he called his final game between Team USA and China. He also scouted for both the Toronto Blue Jays and Chicago Cubs, bringing his deep knowledge of the game to the next generation of athletes.

Before beginning a nearly 25-year career with R.J. Reynolds, Jerry served in education as both a teacher and coach. In 1978, he led Cottage Grove High School to the State Championship baseball game and was later named Head Coach of the Oregon All-State Baseball Team. In recognition of his achievements, he was inducted into the Cottage Grove High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2011.

In 2006, Jerry joined the Volcanoes' marketing team and continued to make an impact both on and off the field. His dedication to honoring veterans earned him numerous accolades, including the Military Order of the Purple Heart Distinguished Service Award in 2015, the U.S. Army Distinguished Service Award in 2019, and the Oregon Distinguished Service Award in 2022-the highest civilian honor in the state-presented by Governor Kate Brown and the Oregon National Guard. In 2021, Keizer Mayor Cathy Clark and the City Council declared July 4th as "Jerry Howard Day" in recognition of his extraordinary contributions.

Jerry's love for coaching never waned. During his time with the Volcanoes, he led youth teams to championships in both CYA State Basketball and Junior Baseball of Oregon, and even coached in a National Tournament in Cooperstown, New York. In 2022, he was named Commissioner of the Mavericks Independent Baseball League, a position he proudly held until his passing.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Mark, and his beloved wife of 38 years, Bea, in 2021. He is survived by his two loving daughters, Cari Lynn Blocker and Terra Lynn Ortega, who carry forward his legacy of strength, kindness, and unwavering dedication to community and country.

Jerry Howard was a man of character, humility, and heart. His contributions to baseball, to youth, to veterans, and to the state of Oregon will never be forgotten.

❤️❤️❤️

Richard Gerald "Jerry" Howard will be laid to rest at Willamette National Cemetery on Thursday, October 16th at 10:30am. Open House to follow 1-2pm at Roto-Rooter Park, formerly Volcanoes Stadium.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Oregon Paralyzed Veterans of America.

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97303

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We at Keizer Funeral Chapel are privileged to be serving the Keizer/Salem and surrounding communities. We appreciate your confidence in our firm, and are committed to providing the most caring, compassionate, and professional funeral service possible to every family that places their trust in us.