Melinda "Irene" Sims

Melinda "Irene" Sims, age 83, of Albany and formerly of La Grande died February 8, 2010 at Mennonite Village in Albany.

A private family graveside service will be held. Arrangements are entrusted to Daniels~Knopp Funeral, Cremation & Life Celebration Center.

Irene was born on May 3, 1926, the daughter of Fred and Lula (Sannar) Trump in Promise, Oregon. She graduated from Elgin High School with the class of 1943. On August 1, 1948 she married Joseph Carl "Jay" Sims in Reno, Nevada. She worked as a clerk in a bookstore and as a merchandiser for Gibson Greeting Cards. In 1955 they moved to La Grande from Oakland, California. She and Jay were members of the Star Promenaders Square Dance Club for many years. She enjoyed the outdoors, crocheting, embroidery, gardening and reading.

Survivors include her children and their spouses, Gary and Susan Sims of Eugene and Melinda and Vance McGowan of La Grande; four grandchildren, Chad Sims, Chris Sims, Anne Sims and Megan Wilson; and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jay, in 1986 and 4 brothers and 1 sister.

Those who wish may make contributions in memory of Irene to the charity of their choice in care of Daniels~Knopp, 1502 7th Street in La Grande.

.