Lois L. Wenker
May 6, 1931 — November 24, 2015
Lois Laverne (Melcher) Wenker peacefully passed away on November 24, 2015 at her care home in Portland, Oregon. She was 84. Lois was born on May 6, 1931 to Gustuf and Agnes Melcher in Portland, Oregon. She attended High School at Jefferson, but moved to live with relatives and graduated from Ashland High School. She attended Southern Oregon College of Education (now Southern Oregon University), before meeting her future husband Robert Lee Wenker. Lois and Robert were married on June 20, 1953.
The couple purchased Ashland Sanitary Service in 1963. Robert worked as general manager and crew supervisor while Lois first was, and later managed the office staff. Both worked full time until their retirement.
Lois was very active in the Ashland community. She served on the City Planning Commission, School Board, PTA, Grizzly Boosters, SOC Raider Boosters, Beta Sigma Phi, Ashland Chamber of Commerce (Pres 1989 to 1991) Oregon OSSA, and Soroptimist. Lois generously donated to the Ashland Community both financially and with her time
In retirement, Lois and Robert traveled to nearly all 50 States in their motorhome. The couple returned to the Portland area in 1997 to be closer to her children and grandchildren.
Lois was preceded in death by her parents; husband Robert, and great-grandson Fynn. She is survived by her children; Wynn, Lynn and Troy. Eleven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Lois was a very special person and will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.
A celebration of life is scheduled for January 9, 2016 at 2pm in the Heathman Lodge Ballroom, 7801 NE Greenwood Dr, Vancouver, WA. (360) 254-3100 The family suggests donations to Providence Hospice in lieu of flowers.