Steve Waller

Steve Waller, of Dallas, Oregon, passed away on Friday, June 26, 2015, following a massive heart attack. He was 69 years of age.

Born on November 30, 1945, to J.T. and Robbie (Hoffman) Waller, Steve grew up between homes in Sale Creek, Tennessee, and La Grande, Oregon. He was surrounded by music and regularly sang and played in the family band or with friends. After graduating high school in La Grande, he attended Oregon State University where he studied engineering before completing an MS degree in Psychology. He briefly served with the United States Army and was a member of the National Guard.

A pioneer of Oregon bluegrass music, Steve was a founding member of the Sawtooth Mountain Boys as well as the Oregon Bluegrass Association. In the 45 year history of the Sawtooth Mountain Boys, the band developed a vast following, released several albums, and embarked on three European tours. As emcee, Steve was known for his hard-driving prowess on the mandolin, baritone vocals, and witty banter on stage. He inspired and mentored countless other bluegrass musicians.

Steve was also a self-employed carpenter / general contractor dedicated to the preservation of historic buildings. He had an enthusiastic passion for period homes, including Victorian and Craftsman styles, and worked on several restoration projects throughout the Willamette Valley.

He was strongly committed to civil rights, social justice, and environmental issues. He was a lover of science, animals, public discourse, history, and world travel. Over the last few years, he greatly enjoyed engaging his large network of Facebook friends in every topic from music to local wine.

Survivors include his loving girlfriend, Carol Justice; daughters, Caralee Anley and Mollie Waller; mother, Robbie Waller; and grandchildren, Riley Hutchinson and Darian Hutchinson. A celebration of life will be held on August 8, 2015, at his home in Dallas. More details will be announced by the family. In lieu of flowers or cards, donations may be made to the Oregon Bluegrass Association, Oregon Public Broadcasting, or Sierra Club.

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