Clara L. (Parmele) Cannon

Clara L. (Parmele) Cannon, with family at her side, passed away in her Bend, Oregon, home on Friday, November 10, 2017. She was born in Taft, Oregon, on December 3, 1929, to F. G. and Ruby Parmele. Even though she lived many years in Eastern and Central Oregon, her love for the ocean remained constant. After graduating from Burns Union High School, Clara joined the work force until she met her forever love, Dean Cannon. The two were married on May 19, 1954, and made their first home at Summer Lake, Oregon, where they raised their two children, Debbie and Wayne. Clara was an active community member, always willing to share her knowledge and love of learning. She took care of her family, was a 4-H and Camp Fire group leader, and at one time served as a Lake County Justice of the Peace. Throughout her life, Claras interests included reading, bird watching, gardening, fishing, travel, crafts, and much more. Eager for new opportunities, Clara and Dean purchased another home in Bend in 1969. Clara then began her career in the banking industry, beginning with Equitable Savings & Loan where she soon became a Loan Officer. She gave much energy to the job, but even more to her children, encouraging them in the pursuit of their own success. With the passage of time, Clara was blessed with two grandchildren, Christie and Heidi, to whom Clara gave and received an immeasurable amount of love. This love for family continued as Clara gave her heart and time to four great-grandchildren. Clara shared by example for family, as well as community, and was an active member of many organizations in Bend. After retirement, Clara and Dean traveled extensively, visiting nearly all 50 states in America, as well as Canada and Baja Mexico. Clara lived a lot of life, leaving a legacy of love for her family. She is survived by her husband, Dean; daughter Debbie; son Wayne; granddaughter Christie and her husband Matt Mahoney, and their children Sean and Molly; granddaughter Heidi and her sons Clayten and Conner; sister Berniece McGee; brother Benny Parmele; brother-in law Swede Rosling; numerous loved nephews, nieces, cousins and other family members, as well as many friends. Claras services will be held November 27 at 11:00 a.m., at the Niswonger-Reynolds Funeral Home Chapel, 105 NW Irving, Bend, Oregon. She will then be laid to rest at Pilot Butte Cemetery, followed by a pot-luck Celebration of Life. Contributions in Claras memory may be made to Partners in Care, 2075 NE Wyatt Ct, Bend, Oregon 97701, or to a charity of the donors choice.

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Clara L. (Parmele) Cannon

December 3, 1929 - November 10, 2017