Audrey Maldonado

Audrey Maldonado, age 89, of La Grande, died February 28, 2007 at her home in La Grande. A memorial service will be held on Friday, March 16, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. at the La Grande Country Club.

Audrey was born January 15, 1918, the daughter of L.W. and Adrian (House) Copeland in Pendleton, Oregon. She was raised in Pendleton and graduated from Pendleton High School with the class of 1935. After her graduation she went to the San Francisco Bay area to further her education and she worked for several companies and at the 1938-1939 World's Fair on Treasure Island. While in California she met Jim Maldonado and they were married August 30, 1940. During World War II Jim served in the military and they were stationed in Fort Riley, Kansas until he was sent overseas in 1944. After the war ended they returned to Pendleton where Jim worked for Audrey's father in the electrical contracting business. During their time in Pendleton their first child, Jadon "Herk" was born in 1947. Soon after his birth the family moved to La Grande where operated La Grand Electric. Two more sons were born to Audrey and Jim, Jeffrey in 1950 and James in 1955. Audrey and Jim divorced in 1970.

Audrey was employed in the business offices of Grande Ronde Hospital for sixteen years, retiring in 1984. In her retirement she enjoyed volunteering for the Chamber of Commerce. She thoroughly enjoyed her friends, playing golf and bridge and cooking.

Audrey is survived by her sons, Herk Maldonado of Mesa, Arizona and Jeffrey Maldonado of Tigard, Oregon; grandchildren, Jaime Maldonado, Kaci Maldonado, Michelle Perry and Trevor Maldonado; one great granddaughter, Paige Perry; a nephew, Richard Wright; and other relatives and many friends. Her son, James, preceded her in death.

Those who wish may make contributions in memory of Audrey to the Blue Mtn. Humane Association in care of Daniels Chapel of the Valley, 1502 7th Street, La Grande, Oregon 97850.