Jan. 27, 1927 – Nov. 29, 2008

Harold Hal Darrow, surrounded by his loving family, died peacefully on Nov. 29, 2008, after a long illness.

He was Born on Jan. 27, 1927, to Ford and Eliza Davis Darrow in Estacada, Oregon, where he lived through high school graduation. He then joined the Merchant Marines and also served in the Army during the Korean War. Afterward, he moved to Portland where he met the love of his life, Pauline Wenstrom. They were married for 55 years.

Hal was known for his love of people, children and animals in particular. He had a delightful stubborn and opinionated streak, traits which endeared him to those who knew and loved him.

In earlier years he enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing golf. He also loved to play the piano and had a great ear for music. He was a passionate bingo and card player, taking annual trips to Reno as well as having monthly poker parties for many years. Hal loved to play cribbage, and he continued to beat everyone he played right up until days before he died.

Hal earned his CLU in insurance, taught insurance classes in Central Oregon, and was a very successful insurance businessman with Metropolitan Life who often earned trips that enabled his family to visit all the big vacation spots on the West Coast.

After all five of his children reached adulthood, he was quoted as saying that he would love to do it all over again ”but not change a thing.” Hal was devoted to his wife and children and will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.

Hal is survived by his wife, Pauline, of Culver and five children; Jan Wells of Redmond, Lyle Darrow (Kathy) of Spokane, Washington, Nancy VanDomelen (Gerry) of Eagan, Minnesota, David Darrow of KahNeeTah and Brenda McCormack (Chris) of Redmond. He also leaves behind 14 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

His family would like to especially thank Mt. View Hospice, Dr. Robert Boone who was both his physician and friend for many years, as well as the wonderful staff at Aspen Court Assisted Living Center in Madras, where Hal spent his final days.

Belair Funeral Home of Madras is in charge of funeral arrangements. The Rosary for Hal will be at 7:00pm on Wednesday, 12/03/08, at the funeral home. The funeral Mass is at 11:00am on Thursday, 12/04/08 in St. Patricks Catholic Church at 341 SW ”J” St., Madras, Oregon. Interment to follow at Redmond Cemetery.

Harold Darrow