Renelda Florence Gashwiler

Renelda Florence Gashwiler, 99, of La Grande, died Oct. 31 at her residence. There will be no local services.

Renelda was born Nov. 8, 1910, to John D. and Laura Lanning (Skeed) Tollenaar in Sterling, Kan.

She excelled at high school track. Even after her marriage, she trained during her spare time. Those who knew her say even in her 60s, Renelda could still do the splits and backbends.

On April 25, 1934, Renelda married John Hiram Gashwiler. They were married for 66 years until his death in 2001.

Renelda was a full-time homemaker, tutor, Scout and Campfire leader, Sunday school teacher and helper and companion to her husband. Renelda's most enjoyable hobby was her family, the focus of her entire life.

She is survived by a son and daughter and their spouses, Keturah and Philip Pennington of Portland and John H. and Kathy Gashwiler Jr. of Missoula, Mont.; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John; her parents; son, Samuel Joy Gashwiler; three sisters, Laura McBee, Virginel Thelma Tollenaar and Avonell Kilbane; and five brothers, Adelbert, John D. II, Frederic Wayne, Claude and Wayne Tollenaar.

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