LaVonne Beth Putnam

LaVonne Beth Putnam , 86, of Pilot Rock, Oregon passed away Sunday April 21, 2024 at her home.

LaVonne was born September 23, 1937 in Appleton, Minnesota to Ervin Lowry and Almeda Stewart. Over the course of her life, she lived in Appleton, Minnesota, and Portland, Pendleton, Hermiston and Pilot Rock, all in Oregon. She attended John Murray Jr. High and Helen McEwin High School as well as Phagan’s Beauty College in Pendleton and Walla Walla, Washington. LaVonne married Robert Putnam in Pendleton on May 21, 1954 and remained happily married until his passing on March 11, 2005.

LaVonne bought her first beauty shop in Pilot Rock in the early 1960’s. In 1967 she and Bob bought the Pilot Rock Hotel and Bob built a beauty shop in the hotel where she worked until July 2023. She was a homemaker and enjoyed cooking, dancing, the Eagles and most importantly, time with her family. LaVonne and Bob had two children, Connie and Forrest.

LaVonne was preceded in death by Bob, her loving husband of 50 years. She is survived by daughter Connie Putnam (Pilot Rock) and Forrest Putnam (Ukiah), grandchildren Dustin Putnam, Shayne Putnam, Brandie Barbosa and nine great grandchildren.

Arrangements are being made with Burns Mortuary of Pendleton. The family is hosting a Celebration of Life at the Eagles in Pendleton.