Clifford "Curt" Curtis Van Blokland

Clifford Curtis "Curt" Van Blokland, age 68, died Monday evening at his home near La Grande.

A celebration of his life will begin at 3 p.m. Saturday December 8th at the Lighthouse Church, 10501 West First Street in Island City. Reception to follow.

Curt was born on November 26, 1944 to Andrew Clifford "Shorty" and Mildred (Spencer) Van Blokland at the St. Joseph Hospital in La Grande. He was raised and educated in La Grande, graduating with the La Grande High School class of 1963. He attended Blue Mountain Community College before returning to work with his father on the family farm. During the winters he worked at Anson's Ski Shop. In 2004 he began working as a salesman for M.J. Goss Motor Company where he worked until retiring in 2010.

On April 7, 1965 Curt was married to Karen Shenfield at the First Christian Church in La Grande.

Curt was a member of the South 40 Club, the Oregon Wheat League, the Elks Lodge and served on the the board of directors of the La Grande Rural Fire Protection District in Island City for many years and the Union County Extension Service. He enjoyed farming, working in his yard, photography, playing pool and golfing. Curt collected cars that he meticulously kept in perfect and spotless condition. One favorite was his '58 Chevy Impala with which he won "Best in Show" at the Portland Roadster show. His grandchildren were his greatest love.

Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Karen, of La Grande; children and spouses, Krysten and Sam Wiseman of Lake Oswego, Kelly and Elaine Van Blokland of Portland; grandchildren, Kylee and Jake Wiseman of Lake Oswego; his mother, Mildred; sister and husband, Carol and Berkley Summers of La Grande; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Curt was preceded in death by his father, Shorty.

Friends who wish may make memorial contributions to the Grande Ronde Hospital Foundation to be used in treatment of cancer. GRH Foundation, 900 Sunset, La Grande, OR 97850.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.danielsknopp.com or www.caringbridge.org site name curtvb.

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