David Ray Higley

David Ray Higley, age 59, of La Grande, died Monday, June 2, 2003 at his home in La Grande following an extended illness.


A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 6, 2003 at 11:00 a.m. at Daniels Chapel of the Valley with Pastor Brent Clapp of the Church of the Nazarene officiating.


Mr. Higley was born on June 5, 1943, the son of Everet and Louise (Moore) Higley in Hood River, Oregon. When he was an infant the family moved to Fruitland, Idaho where he graduated from high school. He moved to the Grande Ronde Valley in the mid 1960's. He worked as a Supervisor for the Boise Cascade Elgin Plywood Plant until his retirement.


On June 25, 1977 he married Diane Olson in La Grande. He was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather and worked with community sports programs as well as 4-H horse programs with his family. He was a member of the NRA and a former member of the Eagles Lodge. He was an avid and active outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting of all kinds and fishing. He enjoyed two- and four-wheeling and camping, even roughing it in snow storms in sleeping bags.


Survivors include his wife, Diane Higley of La Grande; children, Shawn and Robin Higley of Sheridan, Wyoming, Janet and Jeff Combs of Portland, Michael and Angie Johnson of Summerville and Mark Johnson of Summerville; grandchildren, Taylor and Austin Higley and Tessa and Kyle Johnson; parents, Everet and Louise Higley of Union; parents-in-law, Vern and Betty Olson of Cove; brothers, Dean Higley of Coeur'd Alene, Idaho, Wayne Higley of Fruitland, Idaho, Delbert Higley of Payette, Idaho and Gene Higley of Elgin; sisters, Mary and Jeron Jackson of Union and Barbara and Duane Ireland of Bullhead City, Arizona; sister-in-law, Verna Olsen of Union; and other relatives and friends.


Those who wish may make contributions in memory of Mr. Higley to the Imbler School District Athletic Fund or the Stablemates 4-H Group in care of Daniels Chapel of the Valley.