Beatrice Jane “Bea” Luciani of Echo passed away peacefully on July 25, 2018 at Guardian Angel Homes in Hermiston at the age of 94, surrounded by people who loved her.
Bea was born on Feb. 6, 1924 in Webster, S.D. to Henry and Agnes Mathiesen Haugen. They lived on the family farm outside Lily, S.D., where Bea enjoyed her elementary education at the little country school. She received her diploma from Webster High School in 1942.
After graduation, she traveled to Omaha, Neb., where she studied to become a telegrapher for the Union Pacific Railroad. After receiving her certificate as a telegrapher, she traveled to Quinton, near what is now known as Philippi Canyon. She met George, the love of her life, and they were married on Feb. 4, 1945 in Pendleton while he was on leave from Army basic training. George served in the Philippines and also a short time in Japan. When he came home, the couple started their new life together in Pendleton. They then moved to Pine City to pursue George’s love of farming. In 1965, they purchased their own farm, which is still located on Butter Creek.
Bea was an exceptional homemaker and cook. Always generous and giving, Bea never let you leave empty-handed. Her Christian roots were evident in all that she did. Committed to the community, Bea was active in many organizations over the years, including Morrow County Extension Group, Pollyanna’s, Oregon Wheat Growers Association, Morrow County Grain Growers, McNary Yacht Club charter member, and longtime member of the Lutheran Church. Her hobbies included crafting, sewing, puzzles, reading, crocheting, fishing, hunting and boating. Bea lit up whenever friends and family would visit, and the hospitality was abounding no matter who walked into the room. She absolutely cherished time with her family and supported the numerous activities of her children and grandchildren.
She is survived by her daughters, Karla Anderson (Doug), Sheila Cozad (Bob) and Patty Matheny; son, John H. Luciani (Karen); 10 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Bea was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 72 years, George; brother, Vern Haugen; beloved niece, Pam Haugen Fishman; and son-in-law, David Matheny.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, Aug. 2, 2018 at 11 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 485 W. Locust Ave., Hermiston.
Burial will follow at 2 p.m. at the Echo Cemetery.
Those who wish may make contributions in Bea’s memory to the Echo Museum or Vange John Memorial Hospice Education Fund, in care of Burns Mortuary, P.O. Box 289, Hermiston, Ore., 97838.
Please sign the online condolence book at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangement.
