Doris Ethel McLaren

Doris Ethel McLaren 89, of Pilot Rock, Oregon, passed away at McKay Creek Estates on April 14, 2024.  Doris was born September 19, 1934 to Bert and Ethel Herron, in Washtucna, Washington.  Doris was an infant when her family moved to La Grande, Oregon, where she graduated in 1952.  She met the love of her life, Dennis whom she later married on December 24, 1953.  With no honeymoon, friends and family participated in a soiree for the newly married couple.  A marriage that would go on to last more than 70 years.  The newlyweds lived in La Grande until moving to Pilot Rock in 1955.  Dennis worked at the mill and Doris maintained the home.  Ed, Sue and Bill were able to enjoy the fruits of her labor as a stay-at-home mom.  Doris loved camping on the western route, a favorite spot where she could walk among the trees. She was the camp cook and enjoyed providing meals for family and friends.  She introduced her grandkids to her famous pancakes, (the secret ingredient was sugar she tells) made the best chocolate chip cookies and macaroni salad.

In 1983 Doris started working in the apparel department at K-Mart, where she would work her way up to department manager before retiring in 1996.  

Doris is survived by her husband Dennis of Pilot Rock, daughter Sue Baker (Jerry) of Lexington, son Bill (Delores) of Pilot Rock.  Eleven grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren, and 11 great-great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers; Frank, George, Jim, and Ray.  Sisters; Ida May, and Ellen (Babe).  Son Ed and grandson, Michael.

Services will be May 4, 2024 at 11:00 am at Pendleton Pioneer Chapel, Folsom-Bishop.  A private family burial will follow at Sky View Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Vange John Memorial Hospice (645 West Orchard Ave., Hermiston, OR 97838.