CAS Class Notes

Ronald C. Benfield BS ’58, March 18, 2019, age 83. In 1959, Benfield married LaRita Riggs, and the couple moved to Newport, Oregon. He worked as finance director for Central Lincoln People’s Utility District. Outside of work, Benfield was an active community member, serving on various committees and boards. In retirement, he and LaRita traveled in their RV and enjoyed fishing, camping, and hiking. In 2008, LaRita passed away. In 2014, Benfield and Valerie were married. Survivors include his wife, Valerie; children Kathryn and Daniel; three grandchildren; and other loving family members and friends.

Byong Chung BS ’58, April 28, 2018, age 83. After completing his pre-med studies at Seoul National University, Chung attended Lewis & Clark and later earned his MD from Oregon Health & Science University. In 1967, he joined a private neurosurgery practice in Elgin, Illinois, where he helped save lives for more than 40 years. Chung loved to teach and travel, often performing surgeries or teaching wherever he was visiting. He also loved sports and music. Survivors include wife Myung Soon; children Mimi, Young, Julia, and Joe; and 14 grandchildren.

Marlene K. Haldors BS ’58, September 11, 2017, age 80. Survivors include her children, Bruce and Marlys; her brother, Mike; and four grandchildren.

John S. Houser BA ’58, January 10, 2018, age 82. After graduating from Lewis & Clark, Houser earned a fellowship for graduate work in art at the University of California at Los Angeles. He traveled extensively, visiting Morocco, Mexico, and Ecuador. Houser worked as a sculptor, creating large representations of historical figures for several cities in the American Southwest.

Daryle Steffen BS ’58, August 2, 2018, age 81. After graduation, Steffen served in the army for two years. Upon returning to civilian life, he married Peggy Kestie. Steffen worked as a social worker and was an active member of his church. He also loved tending to his garden. Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Peggy; children David, Peter, and Philip; and seven grandchildren.

Wesley C. Strahm BS ’58, June 18, 2019, age 83. In 1963, Strahm cofounded Weatherly’s, a wholesale building supply business, which he helped run until retiring in 1995. During retirement, Strahm enjoyed spending time at his Black Butte home with family and friends; playing golf; and traveling. Survivors include his wife, Sharon; his son, Doug; three grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Jack R. Willey BA ’58, November 23, 2017, age 81. After teaching at Gonzaga University, Willey moved to Bakersfield, California, where he taught at Garces Memorial High School. Survivors include his daughter, Cristina, and a grandson.