Isla Graven

Isla Elaine (Williams) Graven, 86, of Richland, OR, died peacefully in her sleep at her home, September 22, 2017.  There will be graveside service at the Eagle Valley Cemetery in Richland on Friday, September 29th at 11:00 a.m.  Friends are invited to join the family for a potluck reception at the Richland Grange following the service.  

Isla was born on November 21, 1930 to Robert H. and Elva Williams in Richland, OR.  She grew up and lived her entire life in Eagle Valley, attending one year of college in La Grande. Isla married Loran Graven in 1950.  In 1953 their first son, Ralph, was born, followed by daughters, Lorna in 1954, and Merrie in 1956. The family was complete when son, Donald, was born in 1957. 

According to Isla, her “main job was as a wife and mother”.  She also was the bookkeeper for many ditches and other small organizations.  For several years Loran and Isla managed one of the restaurants in Richland where she enjoyed waitressing and working with people.  Isla loved tending a garden, especially her roses.  She also enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, and traveling. Most summers she could be found picking huckleberries with friends and family.

Survivors include her four children and their spouses: Ralph (Tammy) Graven of Richland, Lorna (Rod) Huff of Nampa, ID, Merrie (Ed) Hensley of Baker City, and Don (Lani) Graven of Ashland; her brother, Bob (Ethelyn) Williams of Baker City, and sister Dorothy (John) Randall of Richland; Eight grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Isla was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 47 years, and her sister, Lorene Chandler.

For those who would like to make a memorial donation in memory of Isla, the family suggests the Hilary Bonn Benevolence Fund through Tami’s Pine Valley Funeral Home PO Box 543 Halfway, Oregon 97834.

 Service Information