Rev. Willard A. True

Rev. Willard A. True
Born in Genoa, Colorado June 10, 1919. Died November 23, 2008 at home of natural causes. Married Marie Waldrep on July 18, 1953. Son of Arthra Jane Kidd and Abraham Fredrick True. The family migrated to La Grande in 1930. Willard attended elementary school in La Grande and graduated from North Powder High School in 1940. Willard enlisted in the Army and served as a medic in the 50th General Hospital during World War II. Willard attended Southwestern University in Waxahachie, Texas where he met Marie in 1950. Willard graduated from Northwest Bible College in Kirkland, Washington. Willard and Marie made their home in Seattle, Washington. Willard worked at Waldo General Hospital and was a lay preacher until ordained in 1970. Willard pastored the Assembly of God Church in Klickitat, Washington for 11 years. He retired and moved to La Grande in 1990, where he continued to minister in local rest homes up until October of this year.

In addition to his wife, Marie, Willard is survived by his children: Jim (Diane Lee) True of Seattle; Bill (Karen) True of Kirkland, Washington; Cortie (Jim) Noud of Boise, Idaho; and George (Erica) True of Hood River, Oregon. His surviving grandchildren: Christopher (Kristine) True of Hood River; Denise True of Seattle; Katie Noud of Boise; Josh, Michael and Charlie True of Hood River. His great-granddaughter: Kayla Marie True of Hood River, Oregon. Additional grandchildren: Joe and Tony Schaffer, Tony Cunnings, Shawna Fields and James Wolf. Jerry Johnson, Seattle, was another long time family friend of the True children was also an important part of the extended family. Willard was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and two sisters.

Willard was a published writer in religious and trade publications. He enjoyed huckleberry picking, target practicing, gardening, woodworking, coin and stamp collecting. He was an avid reader and enjoyed playing the guitar. His latest adventure was his red electric guitar and black biker leather jacket.

Willard was a kind, honest, quiet, hardworking and a truly good person. He will be missed by his family and friends here on earth. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a contribution to your local Salvation Army bell ringers this holiday season.

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