Lyle Walter Headley

Lyle Walter Headley, age 80, of La Grande, died October 3, 2007 at his home. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 6, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. at the La Grande Church of the Nazarene. Arrangements are entrusted to Daniels Chapel of the Valley.

Mr. Headley was born on July 7, 1927, the son of Clarence and Margaret (Paulison) Headley in Omaha, Nebraska. During World War II he served with the Merchant Marines. On January 8, 1950 he married Lillian Ruth McIntyre in Ralston, Nebraska. They lived in Nebraska for a time before moving to California where he was a self-employed heavy equipment operator. In 1969 they moved to the Gresham area. They later returned to California before residing in Chiloquin, Oregon. They enjoyed venturing to new places. His wife preceded him in death on June 28, 1998. In 2002 he moved to La Grande, which quickly became his most favorite place.

Mr. Headley was a member of the Lions Club and the American Legion. He was a former member of the Elks Lodge. He was a handyman that could fix about anything. He enjoyed woodworking, mechanics and remodeling. He also enjoyed car racing and vintage automobiles. He was best known for his quirky sense of humor that will be missed by many.

Survivors include his children, Ruth Russell of Sweet Home, Sharon and Steve Helfrich of Boring and Mary and Pat Hoffman of La Grande; grandchildren, Stephen Senger, Grant and Kryss Helfrich, Adam and Joy Helfrich, Alison Senger, Shannon Russell, Alden Russell and Zelylah Hassel; three great grandchildren, Kacey Lynn Helfrich, Hannah Schoolcraft and Piper Helfrich; sister, Dorothy Thompson of Nebraska; he was "Poppa" to Max and Mark MacDonald and their families. He was preceded in death by brothers, Frank and Jay.