David Neil Rynearson

David Neil Rynearson, age 62, a lifetime resident of La Grande, died January 25, 2014. He had struggled with complications from cancer for the past eight years. While he managed to beat the cancer that almost claimed him nearly a decade ago, a major stroke during recovery from cancer surgery set in motion a long battle. He went in peace, at his residence in La Grande, Oregon. A family committal service was held at the Hillcrest Cemetery and a future celebration of life service will be announced at a later date.

David was born on September 7, 1951, the son of George William "Bill" and Martha Jean (Bush) Rynearson in La Grande. He graduated from La Grande High School with the class of 1969. He served a term with the National Guard and worked as a sawyer at the Boise Cascade Sawmill in Elgin for 33 years. In 1971, he married Nan (Fordice) Hyde and the marriage later ended in divorce, but they remained friends. Nan had been an invaluable help to Dave and his family in the late years of his life. In the fall of 1976, he married Diana Niswender, with whom he fathered his only two children.

All those who met him knew he was someone special. If he were present in a room, you knew it. Everyone knew it. He was boisterous, he was loud, he was hilarious. He loved life and just wanted to laugh and have a good time, and perhaps more importantly, wanted to make sure that others were laughing and having a good time. His family and friends were the biggest part of his life. He enjoyed carpentry and built the home his family was raised in, and spent much of his time keeping up the property that he was so proud of. Dave also enjoyed the Old West, history, art, drawing, and classic vehicles.

Survivors include his wife Diana of Portland; daughter, Megan Anne Rynearson of La Grande; son, Joseph David Rynearson of Portland; grandson, Hunter Rynearson of La Grande; sister, Debbie Rynearson of La Grande; niece, Kerri Rynearson, and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother, Michael Rynearson. The family would also like to thank Dave's caretaker, Joel Devore, for his priceless service and friendship, as well as those others whom Dave relied on in his later years.

Those who wish to make contributions in Dave's memory, can do so at the following web address: http://www.gofundme.com/5QSL24. This is an existing fund set up for Genevieve Berry, the four year-old daughter of family friends, who is currently having her own battle with cancer. The link for this charity, as well as the full obituary and online guest book can be found at danielsknopp.com."

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