Phil R. Ainsworth

Phil Randle Ainsworth, age 91, a lifelong resident of La Grande, died June 8, 2013 at his home after an extended illness. A graveside service will be held on Friday, June14, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at Hillcrest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in his name to the GRH Hospice in care of Daniels~Knopp Funeral, Cremation & Life Celebration Center, 1502 7th Street in La Grande.

Phil was born on March 29, 1922, the son of James and Hattie (Cooper) Ainsworth in La Grande. He graduated from La Grande High School with the class of 1940. He went to work as a machinist for the Union Pacific Railroad until February of 1943 when he enlisted in the Army Air Corps where he served as an Aircraft Engine Tech on the B-17s. He was honorably discharged in February of 1946. He returned to work at UPRR until 1949 when he went to work for the State highway department. He began as a machinist and ended his career with them as a shop foreman, retiring in 1983.

On December 30, 1944 he married his high school sweetheart, Belva L. Amos in Pendleton. They raised two children and he loved family get togethers. He loved to fly fish, hunt pheasants and camping. He loved old steam locomotives and vintage aircraft, military as well as others and liked classic cars.

Survivors include his wife, Belva Ainsworth of La Grande; daughter, Beccy Wren of Redmond; son, Gary L. Ainsworth of La Grande; four grandchildren; two great grandchildren and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his brother, Donald Ainsworth and sister, Marie Ainsworth.

.