Merle Raymond Sether Merle Raymond Sether, age 89, born August 07, 1923, died July 16, 2013 Merle Raymond Sether passed away from end stage Alzheimer's on July 16, 2013, at Molalla Manor where he was in the kind care of Bristol Hospice. Raymond was born and raised in Yoder and farmed during his entire career. Born Aug. 7, 1923, Raymond and his wife, Virginia farmed hundreds of acres for forage crops and raised turkeys and hatching eggs for Norbest, sheep and cattle. Raymond was a graduate of Molalla High School and passed up a full-ride opportunity to attend veterinary school at Oregon State to remain at home to help his ailing father run their dairy during war time. He was dedicated to his community, serving on the Molalla Fire Board, Rural Dell School Board and Molalla Union High School Board for over 24 years. Committed to improving agriculture and ranching, Raymond was an FFA Chapter Farmer, Stockman of the Year and served as President of the Oregon Turkey Grower's Association, Oregon Cattleman's Association and Oregon Sheep Grower's Association, among others. He was a life-long member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Raymond was an avid fisherman and hunter. Gardening became a full time passion in his retirement years, where he created his own plant "arboretum" at the family's former residence. Raymond is survived by his wife, Virginia of Molalla; sister, Mrs. Irene Gruver of Brookings; son, Mr. James Sether of Salem; daughter, Dr. Diane Sether of Kaneohe, Hawaii; granddaughter, Mrs. Tracy Steenerson of Canby; grandson, Mr. Scott Sether of Molalla; and two wonderful great-grandchildren. Services will be held at 11 a.m., July 25, 2013, at Zoar Lutheran Church in Canby followed by a luncheon at the church and burial at Zion Memorial Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to Zoar Lutheran Church, Alzheimer's or charity of choice Published in The Oregonian on July 21, 2013 date of birth August 7 1923 date of death July 16 2013 Merle Raymond Sether passed away July 16, 2013 at the age of 89 at Molalla Manor Care Facility in Molalla, Oregon Merle Raymond Sether was born August 7, 1923 to George Martin and Palma (Wrolstad) in Yoder, Oregon. He is survived by his wife Virginia Lavelle (Hanart), son Jim, daughter; Diane. There will be a Traditional Funeral Service for Merle at Zoar Lutheran Church on Thursday, July 25, 2013 at 11:00 am followed by a luncheon at the church. Interment will be at Zion Memorial Cemetery, Canby, Oregon following the luncheon/reception. Arrangements entrusted to Canby Funeral Chapel. www.canbymolallafuneralchapels.com |