LaVonne Barbara Bettendorf Keck passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 3, 2025, after a long and full life. Joyful to the end, she was known for her radiant smile, her gracious spirit, and the warmth she brought to everyone around her.
Born prematurely on October 9, 1934, in Belfield, North Dakota, LaVonne defied the odds and lived over 90 remarkable years. At age three, she moved with her family to Oregon, where she spent most of her life in the Parkrose and Troutdale areas. She graduated from Gresham High School in 1952. During and after her school years, LaVonne worked in sales at Meier & Frank in downtown Portland. She briefly left to attend business school and returned to the store upon completing her studies.
On September 18, 1954, LaVonne married the love of her life, Robert Glenn; Bob Keck, at St. Henry's Catholic Church in Gresham. They made their home in Portland, later moving in 1976 to the outskirts of Sandy, Oregon, where they built their dream home. Together, they raised three children: Karalee, Barry, and Carolyn.
LaVonne was preceded in death by her beloved husband Bob in 2004, and by her son Barry in 2018. A devoted grandmother of eight and great-grandmother of nine, LaVonne cherished time with her family above all else. She was a dedicated volunteer at her home parishes, St. Anne's in Portland and St. Michael's in Sandy, serving faithfully in the Altar Guild, Loaves and Fishes, and assisting elderly parishioners.
Her love of flowers, especially yellow and pink roses, was reflected in the beautiful gardens she kept at her home. A lifelong cat lover, LaVonne always had a feline companion nearby. Some of her happiest moments were spent with her dear friends & sharing laughter over lunch or playing cards together.
LaVonne remained active and engaged until her final days, enjoying dinner out with family the night before her passing. Her presence brought light to every room, and her kindness left a lasting imprint on all who knew her.
A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, June 3, at 1:00 p.m. at Cliffside Cemetery in Sandy, Oregon.
She will be deeply missed and forever loved.