William Allen Wolfsen

William (Bill) Allen Wolfsen 81, passed away Sunday, March 26, 2023 at Guardian Angel Memory Care Home in Hermiston. Bill was born September 18, 1941 at Sedro-Woolley, WA to Fred and Elva Wolfsen. He grew up in Garibaldi, OR and graduated high school from Laurelwood Academy in 1959.

He had an epic love with Sandra Lee (Sandy) (the best wife, Mom and Grandma in the world). They married in 1963 and settled in Portland.  After having their two daughters, Diane and Yvonne, the young family moved to Spokane where he worked for the Upper Columbia Conference as a printer for forty fruitful years.

His resolute faith in the Seventh Day Adventist Church led him to serve on multiple activities and outreach; his favorite being a Pathfinder Leader where he stayed involved for many decades. His passion for all things outside included camping, hiking, backpacking, bicycling, canoeing, kayaking and Ham Radio. He was well known for his midnight hikes and “intentionally” getting lost in the woods, even while using a compass. He could’ve even patented the art of roasting a marshmallow for S’mores.

One of his favorite places to explore was the Oregon Coast. He loved spending time in and photographing God’s nature and had an Adventurer’s spirit. Bill and Sandy always talked about living out their dreams by living in an RV, becoming snowbirds. So, when he retired in 2003 they headed south the very next day. Their escapades brought them closer than ever before and also gave them many great stories. Who else could say that they biked across the USA! After losing his wife in the end of 2010, he continued to RV until the diagnosis of Parkinson’s Dementia.

He was preceded in death by both his parents, Fred & Elva Wolfen, his wife, Sandra Wolfsen, her parents, Jack & Patricia Lee, her brother, David Lee and a nephew, David Lee Jr.

He is remembered by his siblings: Elva “Corleen” & Paul Johnson, Richard & Judy Wolfsen; Sandy’s siblings: Thomas & Janice Lee, Linda Democko; Children: Diane O’Shane, Yvonne & Keith Morter; Grandchildren: Brittnee & Clayton Schmith, Rebeka DesBouillons, Austin & Katie Morter, MaLinda Morter; Great Grandchildren: Clinton Schmith, Tanner Schmith, Zelan Ballesteros, Harper Morter, and multiple nieces and nephews. He has touched so many lives and all we can say is “He is the best!”

A Memorial service will be held on 2:30 p.m. Saturday, April 8, 2023 at Ione Community Church, followed by a graveside service and dinner.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Oregon Trail Pathfinders Club Sponsored by S.D.S. Church, PO Box 1126, Heppner, OR 97836.

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