Jay Lewell Vess

Jay Lewell Vess, 88, of La Grande, died April 6 at Grande Ronde Hospital. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Jay was born Feb. 3, 1921, in Old Fort, N.C., to James Elmer and Pearl (Cox) Vess. He moved to this area from Old Fort 83 years ago. He married Beverly J. Mellinger in 1945. They had three children.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, family get-togethers and restoring Volkswagens. He was also a member of the Elks, Eagles and the National Rifle Association.

Jay is survived by his three children, Tony Vess of La Grande, Barbara Karl of Vancouver, Wash., and Darin Vess of Gresham; seven grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his nine siblings, Jessie, Pauline, Paul, Daniel, Clara, Carrie, Robin, Calvin and Evelyn.

Jay Lewell Vess, 88, of La Grande, died April 6 at Grande Ronde Hospital. Loveland Funeral Chapel and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Jay was born Feb. 3, 1921, in Old Fort, N.C., to James Elmer and Pearl (Cox) Vess. He moved to this area from Old Fort 83 years ago. He married Beverly J. Mellinger in 1946. They had three children.

He served in the U.S. Army from 1942 through 1945.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, family get-togethers and restoring Volkswagens. He was a member of the Eagles and the National Rifle Association.

Jay is survived by his wife, Beverly; three children, Tony Vess of La Grande, Barbara Karl of Vancouver, Wash., and Darin Vess of Gresham; seven grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his nine siblings, Jessie, Pauline, Paul, Daniel, Clara, Carrie, Robin, Calvin and Evelyn.

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