Andrea Renee (Rees) Timmermann

Pendleton’s  “First Woman Citizen” of 1988 passed away on Thursday, March 10.  Andrea R Timmermann died with family nearby following complications from an auto-immune disease. In early February, she was life flighted to St Alphonsus Medical Center in Boise, ID where she was on a ventilator for more than two weeks. Choosing not to have a permanent tracheostomy Andrea chose to return to Pendleton and Hospice Comfort Care. She returned home to McKay Estates where their wonderful staff and the Hermiston Hospice Care team helped make her last days comfortable.  Andrea was filled with happiness as neighbors and other friends came by to briefly visit. This home reunion was very gratifying and gave her peace during her last days.

Born July 24, 1939, in Pendleton, she lived her early years with her parents, Raymond and Lorna Rees and her younger brother Raymond “Fred” Rees on the family farm just north of Helix.  Her cousin, Carol (Rees) Monahan was a constant companion starting as early as their memories began. They remained close all these many years.  Having skipped first grade in elementary school, Andrea graduated from Helix Griswold High in 1956.  In school, she began her life long commitment to participating fully in a variety of organizations.  She held offices in Student Council, Girls’ League and edited the school’s printed newspaper.  Throughout she participated in school plays and played in the band. Her piano skills allowed her to accompany soloists and groups which continued into her adult years. 

Following high school, Andrea attended the University of Oregon and while there continued her strong academic and volunteering ways. She was chosen for the sophomore women’s honorary, was selected for Mortar Board women’s honorary, was treasurer and president of her Delta Delta Delta Sorority, was the secretary of the Panhellenic Council and held several professional honoraries.  She graduated from the University of Oregon in 1960 with a degree in business administration and merchandising.  After graduation she worked as a buyer for Joseph Magnin in San Francisco before returning to Pendleton where she owned and operated a children’s clothing store. She married Lynne E. Timmermann in September, 1961.  The store was sold, and she became the office manager for their heavy equipment business and farming operation.

Volunteerism continued for Andrea even as she and Lynne raised their two children, Katherine (Katy)and Mathew (Mat) Timmermann.  AAUW, ALTRUSA, CHRISTMAS COTILLION, SALVATION ARMY BOARD, CURRENT LITERATURE CLUB, DAUGHTERS OF THE NILE, TUESDAYS AT TWO (TAT), UMATILLA COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY BOARD and ROUND-UP REPUBLICAN WOMEN found Andrea’s commitment to volunteerism an integral part of their organizations.

AAUW selected Andrea as their Vice President in charge of membership within her first year in the organization.  She held the office of treasurer several times and chaired the Education Foundation Program which provides scholarships for women returning to school.  One year, the local chapter named their contribution to that fund for Andrea, the highest tribute that can be paid to an AAUW local member.

ALTRUSA, also, benefitted from Andrea’s volunteerism and leadership skills. She served on their board as president, first and second vice president, corresponding secretary, the bulletin editor for District 12 and chaired anniversary celebrations over the years.   On January 7 of this year she received notice of the honor of achieving Emeritus status in Altrusa International, Inc. of Pendleton.

While serving on the SALVATION ARMY BOARD OF DIRECTORS she was involved in the development of Pendleton’s Salvation Army Community Center. Not to be left out Current Literature , Daughters of the Nile, and Round Up Republican Women had Andrea hold offices while she actively participated in their organizations.

It is without a doubt why she was named PENDLETON’S “FIRST WOMAN CITIZEN” in 1988.  She said of that selection, “It is really an honor!” At that time, she said, “I am not a perfectionist but I want to make sure that I cover all the bases.”  She attributed her leadership commitment to her parents and the Helix community.  In current terminology, Andrea “paid it forward.” She strongly felt if she were capable she would find a way to serve her community and find great joy in doing so. She will be missed by many.

Andrea was predeceased by her parents and her husband and is survived by her children Katy and Mat, her brother Raymond “Fred” Rees (Mary Len), local cousins Carol Monahan, Nancy Rees Duff (Frank)as well as other cousins, nieces and nephews around the world.

Andrea’s family expresses thanks to the caring medical, McKay Estates and Hermiston Hospice staff who watched over her so lovingly. They especially want to convey appreciation to the many friends whose condolences and story sharing have included their admiration for Andrea’s warmth and generous spirt.

The funeral service will be held at Pendleton Pioneer Chapel on Friday, April 1 at 10:00AM followed by a reception at the Pendleton Presbyterian Church until 1:30. The burial will be 3:00 PM at the Helix Cemetery.

Memorial Donations in Andrea’s honor can be given to the Pendleton Presbyterian Church or any of the organizations to which she gave so tirelessly in care of Pendleton Pioneer Chapel, 131 SE Byers Avenue, Pendleton, OR 97801.