Robert James Shukle, 63, died in his sleep Nov. 25, 2008 at his home in Baker City. A celebration and remembrance of his life, along with the spreading of his ashes, will be in spring 2009.

Mr. Shukle was born June 18, 1945 in Newport, Wash. to Albert and Lucille Shukle. In 1963, he graduated from Burnt River High School. After high school, he joined the U.S. Navy and served his country aboard a U.S. naval aircraft carrier during the Vietnam War.

He enjoyed camping, the outdoors, all of God’s creatures and a simplicity of life. His wealth was not measured by material things, but by his love of friends and family. His life motto was to give others the shirt off his own back.

Survivors include his wife, Ruth, of Prineville; son, Shane (Janna) Shukle of La Grande; daughter, Tomi Shukle of Topanga, Calif.; three grandchildren, Arianna, Gabriel and Anya; brother, Gary (Cindy) Shukle of Baker City; sisters, Kay (Keith) Lyons of Woodburn, Beverly (Don) Kloss of Ontario, and Karen (Brian) Combs of Baker City; several nieces and nephews, and his companion, his calico cat, “Eve.”

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents and one brother, Larry Shukle.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to “Best Friends of Baker City,” or to the La Grande Animal Shelter, through Gray’s West and Company Pioneer Chapel, 1500 Dewey Ave., Baker City, OR 97814.