Keith Lorin Simonis

Keith Simonis

June 9, 1925 - September 7, 2003

Keith Lorin Simonis, 78, a resident of North Powder, died Sunday, September 7, 2003 at his home. His graveside service will be Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 11:00 a.m. at the North Powder Cemetery. Mr. Jimmy Larkins Sr. will officiate. Military rites will be accorded by Co. A 3-116th CAV Oregon Army National Guard. Vault interment will follow. Visitation will be Wednesday, September 10, 2003 from 9:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Coles Funeral Home.

Keith was born June 9, 1925 in Baker City, Oregon, a son of Ernest and Olena (Johnson) Simonis. He was raised in North Powder and Union, Oregon receiving his education in Union. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corp during World War II on March 11, 1942 in Portland, Oregon. He achieved the rank of Sargent and was very proud of having served in the Leading Night Fighter Squadron. He was honorably discharged in San Diego, California on April 2, 1946.

On September 26, 1969, he married Margalee Putman in Winnemucca, Nevada. They made their home in North Powder, Oregon. Keith worked as a heavy equipment operator all over the state of Oregon. He loved to fish, hunt, and tell a good story. He loved to play his guitar and accordion for his family and friends. He wrote many of his own tunes. He loved to spend time with his grandchildren and was a pinocle playing fool. Keith was a member of the Elks Lodge, the Eagles Lodge, and the 701 Union.

He is survived by his wife Margalee, North Powder, Oregon; sons, Randy Simonis, Bobby Simonis, and Dusty Simonis and his wife Nancy. Daughters, Vickie Simonis, Linda Burnside and her husband Wayne, Suzie Travis and her husband, Ted, Jeanna Valencia, and Kim Larkins and her husband, Chris. Step children, Danny and Carla Putman, Mark Putman, and Shawn Schisler. Brother, Elvin Simonis. Twenty four grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Vernon Simonis. Memorial contributions in Keith's memory may be directed to Pathway Hospice, 1904 Resort Street, Baker City, Oregon or through Coles Funeral Home, 1950 Place Street, Baker City, OR 97814.