Dwayne "Ponch" Rushton

Dwayne Eddie "Ponch" Rushton, age 42, of La Grande, died Friday, December 12, 2003 in Boise, Idaho following an automobile accident. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. at Daniels Chapel of the Valley.

Ponch was born on March 21, 1961 in The Dalles, Oregon and he graduated from high school in Mopin, Oregon. He served with the United States Army during the Gulf War and was very proud of his military service. In 1986 he moved to Cove with his two sons and raised them by himself. He later moved to Ukiah and then to Stevenson, Washington. He moved to La Grande a year ago.

Ponch owned and operated the Designated Driver Taxi Service for a time and was an accomplished auto mechanic. He will be remembered for his generosity and helpfulness to others. Every year he donated his hair to the children at Doernbecker Hospital and even got others to join in the donation.

Survivors include his wife, Melva (Walker) Rushton of La Grande; children, Anthony Rushton of Salem, Brett Walker, David Johnson and Buddy Johnson, all of La Grande; grandson, Luke Johnson of La Grande; father and step-mother, Ed and Patricia Rushton of Goldendale, Washington; nieces and nephews, Kenny Walker, Joshua Walker, Patrick Walker, Jamin Givens, Travis Van Leuven, Melissa Walker, Tahini Givens and Brian Nearing; and other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his son, Jeffrey Rushton in 2002.

Those who wish may make contributions in memory of Ponch to the Doernbecker Hospital in care of Daniels Chapel of the Valley, 1502 7th Street, La Grande, Oregon 97850. To view the unedited obituary, sign the guest book or leave a condolence on-line, visit www.danielschapel.com