Neomi F. Awmiller

Neomi F. Awmiller, age 85, of La Grande, died at home on January 8, 2004. A celebration of life ceremony will be held in the springtime and will be announced later by Daniels Chapel of the Valley.

Neomi was born August 17, 1918 to Verner and Katie (Wecker) Awmiller in Spence, Colorado. She moved to La Grande with her family in July of 1936.

She had great enthusiasm for life and loved her family and friends. She enjoyed dancing, cooking, painting, playing cards, especially cribbage and was an accomplished wood carver. She was a member of South Minster Presbyterian Church in Beaverton and worked on the church bulletin. She was also a member of the Eagles and the American Legion.

Neomi was a hard worker. She worked for the railroad during World War II and owned and operated several businesses, including a store and motel in Pacific City, The Highway Café in La Grande and was the original owner of the Eastside Tavern. She retired from Reser's Fine Foods in Beaverton, Oregon. In 2001 she moved back to La Grande and spent the last year of her life in the loving home of John and Linda Bunch of La Grande.

Survivors include her step-children, Dan Evans and Janice Weaver of Kettle Falls, Washington and Barry Evans of Republic, Washington; nephews, Dale Awmiller of La Grande and Craig Awmiller of Tacoma; nieces, Linda Awmiller and Letha Joseph of Union; great nephew, Dain Awmiller of La Grande; sisters-in-law, Louise Awmiller of Tacoma and Audrey Awmiller of Union; and many other relatives and friends. Two brothers, Kenneth and Delbert Awmiller died earlier.