Alva Leo Farley Obituary (1928 - 2019)

Alva Leo Farley 91 of John Day, Oregon Passed away at his home with family on May 30th, 2019 He was born January 12th, 1928, in Caldwell, Idaho to Frank & Grace Farley. Grew up in Parma, Id., In his teens moved to New Plymouth, Idaho. Where he met Phyllis Henry and then married on July 2, 1950. He was then drafted into the army and served from Nov 1951 to Nov 1953. Where he received 3-star bronze service metal and other numerous commendations, During his service during the 13 months he served in the Korean War. When discharged moved to Pondosa, Oregon And worked in the mill there until March of 1959. Moved to John Day and worked at S-M Motors Until Jun of 73 and then worked for School Dist # 3 as the bus mechanic and also drove a bus route. Retired July of 1990. He and his wife Phyllis were the County Fairgrounds caretakers from 1972 for 8 years. He also served as a Reserve John Day City Police Officer in the '70s and '80s. They have three daughters, Christine ( Ron) Saddler of Canyon City, Oregon , Carolyn ( Jim) Thomas Of Kimberly, Oregon , Linda ( Don) Perronne of North Bend, Oregon. 2 Grandchildren Anthony (Michelle) Saddler of Jefferson GA, Megan ( Neil) Petersen of La Grande, Oregon, Sara ( Aaron) Van Vlack of Coos Bay, Oregon. 2 Great Grandchildren Kyler and Avalon Petersen of La Grande, Oregon. Was a member of Ellis Tracy American Legion Post #77 from 1968- was Vice Commander and the Commander. Government of South Korea presented a Medal for his service in Helping to save their country. Alva Very much enjoyed his hobbies collecting and restoring guns, going to gun shows and the people he would meet there. Also going with his Grandson Anthony and Best Friend Rich Tirico. He also enjoyed the time he spent restoring 2 family John Deere 1949 -1950 Tractors and driving them in the parades. He took great pleasure in mentoring young people over the years. Loved to travel to see the California Desert over the years. He was preceded in Death by his parents, his six brothers, and two sisters: Earl Farley, Everett Farley, Floyd Farley, Dean Farley, Dale Farley, Gordon Farley, Bonnie (Farley) Gause, and Marian (Farley) Hill Curtis. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Grant County Hospice and the Ellis Tracy American Legion Post # 77 Of John Day OR through Driskill Memorial Chapel 241 S. Canyon Blvd., John Day, OR 97845. Graveside services will be held Friday, June 7th at 2 pm at the Canyon City Cemetery with Military Honors.