Vera Owen

Vera Clarke-Cantrell (Owen), 94 died after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s on Friday, September 23, 2016. Vera was born on September 20, 1922 in Hood River, OR, to Robert and Margaret Clarke. In 1943 Vera married Leo Cantrell. They lived in Dee and together they had three daughters Susan, Sally, and Violet. In 1960, after the town of Dee was torn down the family moved to Odell. Vera continued to be a homemaker and worked for Duckwall Packing house in the fall. After Leo’s fatal heart attack, and all of the girls had graduated Vera moved to Hood River and began working at Luhr Jensen. In 1978 she re-married to Elmer Owen. They were able to do some traveling. After Elmer’s death, Vera remained in Hood River until 2009. At that time she moved to Gresham OR, to live with her daughter and son in law until the time of her death. Vera is survived by her brother Dick Clarke; daughters Sally Merz and Violet (Rodger) Phillips; her grandchildren Lisa Cantrell, Celeste Merz (Mark) Owens, Melissa Merz (Dane) Smith, Kenny (Anna) Merz, Tawnya Phillips (Brandon) Charlson and Leo (Christina) Phillips; her great-grandchildren Cory (Laci) Miller, Kenna Owens, Trapper Owens, Bristol Smith, Wylie Merz, Wren Merz, Jordan Charlson and Crysta Charlson, and three great-great grandchildren Britta, Rylee, and Brynlee Miller. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her siblings Gilbert Clarke, Theresa Clarke-Rath, Violet Clarke-Nelson, Robert (Bob) Clarke, Alan Clarke, her daughter Susan Cantrell and son-in-law Ken Merz. Funeral services will be held at Anderson’s Tribute Center on Thursday, September 29, 2016 at 2:00 pm, Memorial donations may be made in Vera’s name to Hospice of Oregon. Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center (Funerals • Receptions • Cremations) 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031. Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.