Terrance "Lee" Gandy

Terrance "Lee" Gandy, Sr, age 69, of La Grande, died December 11, 2012, at his home. At his request there will be no public services at this time. Those who wish may sign the on-line guestbook or leave a condolence at www.danielsknopp.com.

Lee was born on May 24, 1943, the son of Clarence and Helene A. (Miller) Gandy in McCook, Nebraska. He served a short time with the United States Army and then worked for many years in the construction business in Weiser, Payette, Susanville, CA, Salem and Ontario. While working near Ontario he was involved in a near death accident that had him in rehabilitation hospitals in the Boise area for three years. He came to La Grande in the early 1970's. In February of 1976 he opened the Wooden Nickel and operated it until his death. He was a longtime member of the American Cribbage Congress and played in major tournaments all over the country and always won or placed. He was also a member of the Blue Mtn. Peggers who met every Thursday at Denny's. He was a member of the Eagles Lodge and the Elks Lodge as well as the La Grande Coin Club. He was a strong supporter of 4-H and FFA. On December 10, 1999 he married Melissa Lederer in La Grande. Cribbage was his main hobby but he also enjoyed fishing and dancing.

Survivors include his wife, Melissa Gandy of La Grande; children, Terrance "T" and Victoria Gandy of La Grande, James Gandy of Willets, CA, Daniel Gandy of LaPine and Kathy Valdez of Salem, step-children, Sherri Sherman and Matthew Lederer; mother, Helene Teel of Pendleton; siblings, Gary and Jan Keidatz of Salem, Cheryl and Wayne Willard of Pendleton and Rita and Jeff Hiat of Pendleton; several half brothers and sisters; grandchildren, Clara Gandy of La Grande and Hunter Gandy of Willets, CA; aunt, Lucy Miller of Turner and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, son, Michael Gandy, wife, Bonnie Gandy and his beloved dog, Miss Tufffy who went everywhere with him.

Those who wish may make contributions in his memory to the Blue Mtn. Peggers in care of Daniels~Knopp Funeral, Cremation & Life Celebration Center, 1502 7th Street in La Grande.

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