William "Vern" Vernon Carpenter

William Vernon "Vern" Carpenter, age 78, of Island City, died Sunday at his home. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, February 7, 2007 at 1:00 p.m. at the Island City Cemetery.

Mr. Carpenter was born on July 18, 1928, the son of Thomas and Zoe (Safford) Carpenter in La Grande. He graduated from La Grande High School in 1946 and received an Associate Degree from Eastern Oregon College (now Eastern Oregon University). He served with the United States Army during the Korean Conflict.

On November 20, 1955 he marred Laurel "Grace" Miller in Boardman. He managed Van Petten Lumber Company and later Hoff Lumber Company until his retirement. He was a member of the Elks Lodge and enjoyed hunting, trap shooting and was a handyman who enjoyed building things.

Survivors include his wife, Grace Carpenter of Island City; sons and their spouses, Tom and Edna Carpenter of La Grande and Russell and Alayna Carpenter of Myrtle Point; six grandchildren; four great grandchildren and other relatives and friends.

Those who wish may make contributions in memory of Mr. Carpenter to the GRH Hospice in care of Daniels Chapel of the Valley, 1502 7th Street, La Grande, Oregon 97850.