Lauren Eugene Lippert, 79, of John Day, died Dec. 16, 2009, at Country Spice Care Facility.

Mr. Lippert was born May 5, 1930, in Long Creek to Eugene and Mandy (Richardson) Lippert. He joined the U.S. Army and was stationed in Alaska as a stevedore (loading ships). He was also an MP officer.

On May 28, 1954, he married Joan Showalter in Pendleton. Their son, Johnny, was born the following December.

He worked security for Grant Western Lumber Company for a number of years and was also a logger. He enjoyed life to its fullest and didn’t take anything for granted.

He enjoyed deer steaks, cigarettes and beer. He also loved seeing his son and grandchildren.

Survivors include his son, Johnny (Kim) Lippert of Sweet Home, stepson, Ken Hardeman of La Grande; sister, Joanne Stratton of John Day; grandson, Jeremiah (Heather) Lippert and great-grandson, Tristen, of Great Falls, Mont.; and granddaughter, Anna Lippert of John Day.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother; and his wife, Joan, who died in 2006.

Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice through Driskill Memorial Chapel, 241 S. Canyon Blvd., John Day, OR 97845.