Norvin "Skip" Coles Jr., 70, of Baker City, died Monday, April 13, 2020 with his family by his side. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Skip was born on March 18, 1950 to parents Norvin and Eleanor Coles. He was raised in La Grande and participated in both the Cub and Boy Scouts. In 1965 he won the NRA Junior Indoor Rifle Championship. Skip graduated from La Grande High school in 1968.
As a young teenager, Skip worked for Brogotti farms. He worked there until he went to the big city of Portland for employment. In 1975 Skip married Debby Doud, they later divorced in 1998. In 1976 Skip welcomed his daughter Tiffany into the world which was a proud and memorable moment in his life.
Skip settled on a job working for Boise Cascade in Elgin. He moved his young family to Cove and later to North Powder where he had quite a commute to work. After 36 years, Skip retired and moved to Baker City.
Skip had a natural green thumb. He loved plants and at one time probably had over 200 houseplants. His indoor gardening did not end inside, as his yard was the delight of the whole neighborhood. Skips favorite color was blue, which was evident since his wardrobe was almost entirely blue. He also liked collecting all kinds of glassware that he proudly displayed in his home. Skip had a fondness for cats and especially enjoyed spending time with his Siamese cat Thomas.
Skip never met a stranger which was something he learned from his parents. He loved his family and always stayed in touch with all his cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents Norwin and Eleanor Coles; baby brother Richard Coles.
Skip is survived by his daughter Tiffany Coles and her companion Blaine Sanchez of Baker City, OR; brother James Coles of Kansas City, MO; sister Karen Coles of La Grande, OR; longtime companion Carlis; grandchildren Rebecca, Brandon and Jasmine; great- grandchild Ethan; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
For those who would like to make a memorial donation in honor of Skip, the family suggests a charity of your choice through Tami’s Pine Valley Funeral Home and Cremation Services PO Box 543 Halfway, Oregon 97834. Online condolences can be shared at www.tamispinevalleyfuneralhome.com