Obituary: Idonna Cantrell

Idonna Ward Cantrell passed away Jan. 19, 2024, in The Dalles, Ore., six weeks shy of 101 years old. She was born March 2, 1923, in Union, Ore.

Idonna is survived by sons Rick (Cheryl), Thomas (Maria), Jim (Kathleen); daughter Idonna-Jean Bruns (Pete); 15 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; and a great-great-grandson. She was preceded in death by husband, Richard Carleton Cantrell, parents Silas and Wilmerth Orton Ward, and sisters Verla Cooper and Ann-Ara Black.

Idonna walked quietly through life serving others in various capacities while leaving lasting impressions along the way. She led a diverse life, displaying versatility and dedication. She experienced much change in her lifespan, from driving horse-drawn farm equipment to being abreast of modern technology. Idonna was an avid learner, a rodeo queen, homemaker, secretary, bookkeeper, bank teller, Wasco County Deputy Sheriff’s Reserve, Red Cross First Aid, CPR and EMT instructor, Dufur Ambulance volunteer EMT, a court appointed child advocate (CASA), a foster and adoption specialist in the LDS Family Services, and a leader and teacher in the children’s and women’s organizations in her church.

Idonna was a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She and Rick served missions in Nigeria, Africa and Texas and were ordinance workers in the Portland, Ore., Temple for many years.

Her remarkable life touched the hearts of many, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Feb. 10, noon at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1815 E. 15th St., The Dalles, Ore. Friends may visit her family from 11-11:45 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dufur Volunteer Fire and Ambulance fund, P.O. Box 145, Dufur, OR 97021.