Harry L. Williams

Harry L. Williams, 68, longtime Baker City resident, died Aug. 22 after a nine-year battle with cancer. A celebration of Harry's life will begin at 1 p.m. Saturday at the Elkhorn Gallery, 1234 Second St., in Baker City with Minister Doug Edmonds presiding.

Harry was born July 27, 1941, the first child of Henry and Ellen Williams in The Dalles. The family moved often in his childhood due to his father's work.

Harry attended more than a dozen schools growing up, eventually graduating from Marshfield High School in Coos Bay. He then joined the Navy and served a four-year tour of duty. Most of his service was in the Far East: Hong Kong, Japan and off the coast of Vietnam.

After serving his country, Harry worked in heavy construction and had the good fortune to meet Tessa Thompson. They were happily married 44 years and had two sons, Hank and Heath.

Harry's many endeavors included ranching and owning a restaurant. He was a carpenter, and worked in construction. He worked in the sheriff's office while attending Eastern Oregon State College. There he earned his bachelor's degree.

For the last 21 years he and his wife operated the Elkhorn Athletic Club. Harry became an accomplished artist over the years and two years ago added an art gallery to the athletic club where local artists display their work.

Harry was passionate about whatever he attempted: fitness, weight training, racquetball, art and hunting. He was an avid reader and loved to share what he had learned. His generosity knew no bounds as many will attest.

He is survived by his wife, Tessa, of Baker City; son, Hank and his wife, Vickie, of Baker City; son, Heath and his wife, Sania of Savannah, Ga.; sister, Dana Endicott and her husband, Marvin, of Baker City; brother, Terry Williams and wife, Teri, of Boise; brother, Jerry and his wife, Michelle, of Nacogdoches, Texas; four grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Church of Christ of La Grande or to any local food bank in care of Tami's Pine Valley Funeral Home, P.O. Box 543, Halfway 97834.

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