David A Soderstrom

David Allen Soderstrom Pendleton, Oregon June 6, 1939-September 10, 2020 David Allen Soderstrom passed away on September 10, 2020 at the age of 81. David was born in Portland, Oregon to Albert and Doris Soderstrom. He was raised in Corbett and graduated from Corbett High School in 1957. After high school, David went on to study architecture at the University of Oregon. In 1966 he joined Will Martin beginning his architectural career in Portland, Oregon. This union was known as Martin and Soderstrom. In 1971 John Matteson joined them to form Martin, Soderstrom, Matteson. In 1984 David left MSM to begin his own firm, Soderstrom Architects, where he retired in 2003 holding architectural licenses in eight states. During his long career practicing architecture, David also served as chairman of the Portland Design Review Commission finalizing the Design Guidelines for future construction in the downtown core area. He also served concurrently on the City Planning Commission. David designed many schools beginning with Athena Elementary School in 1977. Then in 1982 he designed the Pendleton Junior High School which was the state’s largest active solar powered building, winning three design awards. He went on to design Forest Grove High School in 1984 and Oregon City High School in 2003. He also worked with Milton Freewater School District and Eastern Oregon University. David was known to always be ready with a pen to sketch a concept and come up with innovative ideas. He also worked hard to support all those that worked with him. He enjoyed golf in both his professional career and personal life. David designed both the Ghost Creek Clubhouse and Witch Hollow Clubhouse at Pumpkin Ridge in 1991 and 1992. He also designed Gearhart Golf Links Clubhouse in Gearhart and the OGA Members Clubhouse at Tukwilla in Woodburn both in 2000. Outside his professional life, he was also involved in his community. David served on the Portland Opera Board from 1991-1997 in addition he was President for part of that time. He also was a float judge for Portland Rose Festival Association for three years. David is survived by his wife, Luann, of almost 40 years and his brother Keith Soderstrom. He is also survived by his children Ken (Amy) Soderstrom, Kristin (Joe) Howells, Angela (David) Valentine, Erik Soderstrom, Evan (Brianne) Soderstrom, and Allison Soderstrom. David had a strong love of family and spending time with good friends. He will be greatly missed. A graveside service will be held on Friday, October 23rd at 2 pm at Olney Cemetery in Pendleton, Oregon. Due to COVID restrictions mask are required and social distancing is encouraged. Remembrances can be made to the First Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund or to PAWS (Pendleton Animal Welfare Shelter) in care of Burns Mortuary at 336 SW Dorian, Pendleton, OR 97801 or PO box 489, Pendleton, OR 97801.

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