Memory Gardens Memorial Park and Mortuary

07/04/2026

Liam Blakeney Samos

In memory of Liam Blakeney Samos Born March 27, 1993 Died July 4, 2025

Survived by mother, Penny Blakeney, aunt, Patricia Campos, father, Josh Samos and many loving friends and family worldwide.

Liam was a world traveler, adventurer, philosopher, brilliant mind and spirit with love and respect for everyone he knew. He spent much time in Asia searching for the best teas in Taiwan and Japan to bring back and share with others along with lively conversation at each tea ceremony he hosted. He was a seeker of the truth and loved discussing philosophical ideas around it.

He is a tea sommelier to remember with a cup of puerh , one of his favorites. Liam was gracious, wise, with a beautiful soul. Gifted in so many ways and well liked and loved. Always to be remembered by all who cherish him.

I love you forever my beautiful son. Blessings.

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06/19/2026

Marilyn Lois Zuppe

Marilyn L. Zuppe, 82, of Shady Cove, Oregon, has passed away peacefully June 9th, 2026 at home. Marilyn was born June 29th, 1943 at Camp White in White City, Oregon.

The daughter of Altor Frederick Herrmann and Lois Alice McManoma. Marilyn met her husband Lonnie Zuppe, Sr., in 1960 and were married on March 29th, 1962.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her loving husband Lonnie, half-brother Tommy, and granddaughter.

She is survived by her five children; Diane Zuppe McCall-Riggs, Marianne Hayes, Lonnie Zuppe, Jr., Judy Atkins, and Alan Zuppe. Also by her 19 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

Marilyn was a caregiver until she retired in 1982. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, card games such as solitaire and rummy, crocheting and so much more.

Marilyn was a loving wife, amazing mother, and a wonderful grandma.

She will be truly missed. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, June 26th, 2026 at 3:00 PM at Sterlingville Cemetery in Jacksonville, Oregon.

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06/01/2026

Kenneth Bruce Frires

Kenneth Bruce Frires, a man of boundless curiosity, quiet generosity, and adventurous spirit, passed away on May 12, 2026, at the age of 74.

Born on December 15, 1951, ken grew up in Beachwood, Ohio, when he graduated from high school in 1969. He went on to attend The Ohio State University, earning his degree in 1973. After college, Ken moved to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, where he worked as a social worker serving migrant communities - work that reflected his lifelong commitment to compassion, dignity, and service.

It was there that he met the love of his life, Patti, at a local food co-op. Together, Ken and Patti built a life rooted in both purpose and adventure. Their travels and shared dreams eventually led them to Tucson, Arizona, where Ken founded a tofu manufacturing company, channeling his entrepreneurial spirit and creativity in to building something meaningful.

After several years in Tucson, where his son Ari was born, the couple made their way to Ashland, Oregon. They later returned briefly to Tucson while Patti attended nursing school before ultimately settling ack in Ashland, where they made their home.

For 23 years, Ken devoted himself to helping others through his work at a job counseling center, guiding adults transitioning off welfare toward stable employment and renewed confidence. He believed deeply in the potential and worth of every person he encountered.

Ken embraced life fully and energetically. An avid endurance athlete, he loved mountain biking, hiking, skiing, and exploring the natural world. He was also an accomplished tennis player whose competitive spirit was matched by his joy of movement and connection.

Music was woven throughout Ken's life. He played clarinet and soprano saxophone, loved to jam with friends, and in later years returned to the piano, reconnecting with an instrument he first learned as a child.

His curiosity and love of discovery carried him around the world, including travels to Guatemala, Costa Rica, Vietnam, Italy, Spain, Portugal, India, and Mexico. Wherever he went, Ken sought deeper understanding, meaningful experiences, and human connection.

Ken leaves behind a legacy of service, music, adventure, and an open heart. He will be remembered for his kindness, his gentle spirit, and the deeply thoughtful way he moved through the world.

Ken is survived by his loving wife Patti, his beloved son Ari, his brothers Larry and Rick. He was predeceased by his parents David and Gertrude Frires.

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06/01/2026

Kenneth Bruce Frires

Kenneth Bruce Frires, a man of boundless curiosity, quiet generosity, and adventurous spirit, passed away on May 12, 2026, at the age of 74.

Born on December 15, 1951, ken grew up in Beachwood, Ohio, when he graduated from high school in 1969. He went on to attend The Ohio State University, earning his degree in 1973. After college, Ken moved to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, where he worked as a social worker serving migrant communities - work that reflected his lifelong commitment to compassion, dignity, and service.

It was there that he met the love of his life, Patti, at a local food co-op. Together, Ken and Patti built a life rooted in both purpose and adventure. Their travels and shared dreams eventually led them to Tucson, Arizona, where Ken founded a tofu manufacturing company, channeling his entrepreneurial spirit and creativity in to building something meaningful.

After several years in Tucson, where his son Ari was born, the couple made their way to Ashland, Oregon. They later returned briefly to Tucson while Patti attended nursing school before ultimately settling ack in Ashland, where they made their home.

For 23 years, Ken devoted himself to helping others through his work at a job counseling center, guiding adults transitioning off welfare toward stable employment and renewed confidence. He believed deeply in the potential and worth of every person he encountered.

Ken embraced life fully and energetically. An avid endurance athlete, he loved mountain biking, hiking, skiing, and exploring the natural world. He was also an accomplished tennis player whose competitive spirit was matched by his joy of movement and connection.

Music was woven throughout Ken's life. He played clarinet and soprano saxophone, loved to jam with friends, and in later years returned to the piano, reconnecting with an instrument he first learned as a child.

His curiosity and love of discovery carried him around the world, including travels to Guatemala, Costa Rica, Vietnam, Italy, Spain, Portugal, India, and Mexico. Wherever he went, Ken sought deeper understanding, meaningful experiences, and human connection.

Ken leaves behind a legacy of service, music, adventure, and an open heart. He will be remembered for his kindness, his gentle spirit, and the deeply thoughtful way he moved through the world.

Ken is survived by his loving wife Patti, his beloved son Ari, his brothers Larry and Rick. He was predeceased by his parents David and Gertrude Frires.

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05/26/2026

Kay Veniece Irby

Kay Veniece Irby passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, in Medford, Oregon. She was born and raised in Hanford, California on July 14, 1936.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents, Theodore R. Garman and Ina M. Spicer as well as her husband, Larry D. Irby. She is survived by her daughters Diana K. Doran (Shane) of Eagle Point Oregon, and Nancy M. Bailey (Jeff) of Eugene, Oregon along with 4 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.

Kay made her home in Medford, Oregon for over 50 years. She was employed as an accountant and tax consultant for Yergen and Meyer CPAs in Medford, Oregon and wound down her career at Hays Oil Co.

She was actively involved in Medford Jazz Jubilee, Friends of the Library, Emblem Club, Jobs Daughters and Elks Club.

Outside of her professional life, Kay found joy spending time with dear friends George and Brenda Taylor, and traveled abroad with them on many cruises and adventures until Larry’s passing in 2010.

Her last few years were spent enjoying time with all of her family, including living in Eugene, Oregon and then moving back to Medford, Oregon. She was always happy surrounded by her family and friends.

Kay was laid to rest at Memory Gardens Memorial Park on May 26, 2026, and was dearly loved by many and will be missed by all.

The family will gather for a celebration of life on July 18th, 2026.

Donations may be made in her honor to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, March of Dimes, or any other children’s charity organization.

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05/25/2026

Daniel Robert Gee

Daniel Robert Gee died suddenly on April 15, 2026.

He was 63 years old. Born March 18, 1963 in Massachusetts.

He grew up in Billerica and graduated from Billerica Memorial High School.

He completed his Bachelor'ss degree from Mass College of Art.

After college he traveled Europe and the United States extensively.

He lived for a time in Santa Cruz, CA and eventually moved to the Medford, OR area where he fell in love with his sweetheart Mary.

He is predeceased by his father, Frank A. Gee Jr; his mother, Susan S. Gee and sister Lynda Fitzgerald. Danny is survived by his sweetheart, Mary Bratten, and his 2 brothers; Steven Gee and Thomas Gee and their families.

A loving write up from his brother Steve

Danny was a gifted artist who graduated second in his class from Mass College of Art.

His artwork was often very imaginative and unique and was proficient in many artistic techniques. He had a strong sense of humor and that was frequently apparent in his art. I was astounded to learn of how much time he could put into a piece as he was focused on really making a high quality creation.

Danny ran track in high school and typically ran the two-mile distance. He once ran a fundraising event 2 times consecutively and doubled charitable donations for his efforts.

He was in the chess club in school and was a clever player.

Danny was often the one to do the crazy stunts growing up as he was naturally athletic and could be fearless when he wanted to be. Dare him to do something and he probably would take up the challenge and succeed just to make you laugh. Danny, I bet you can’t jump off that from there to there. Done.

Danny was a one of a kind personality and will be missed by those who knew him. He was great fun to be with growing up as his younger brother.

Love you Danny,

Steve

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05/11/2026

Richard Anthony Papa

Richard Anthony Papa, known to everyone who loved him as Rick or Ricky, was a man whose life defined the standard for integrity, dignity, and a heart like a saint. Rick passed away peacefully in the mid afternoon Wednesday, April 29, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of selfless devotion and love. Close to 25 years, Rick was known in the local vineyards,always talked by others in the field with respect and value for him. He later transitioned into his most cherished role: the full-time caregiver for his partner and soulmate of 38 years, Kelly Ivy. Though they never officially married, their bond was undeniable. To Rick, Kelly was his world, and for mom, he was her “Ricky”,caregiver and everything that was reliable,dependable and safe for her. He always had her whole heart. A man of quiet contentment, Rick poured himself into his home, his love of football and basketball, and his family. He never said he needed anything more than the life he had built with those he held dear. Rick is survived by his beloved soulmate, Kelly Ivy; And his daughters, Lisa Marie Paredes, her husband Fernando Paredes and their two beautiful daughters Penelope and Eleanor ; and Dama Shutt along with her life companion Bryan French and her two children Tia and Brandon. He is also survived by two his sisters Linda, Mary and his brother Vince, all his nieces , Debbie Jackie Tina Renee and Patti all who loved him and cherished him very much. A family that will forever be guided by the high bar he set for what it means to be a good man. A celebration of The Papa” ; Rick’s life will to be determined

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04/28/2026

Jarred Christopher Coil

Jarred Christopher Coil, 46, of Jacksonville, Oregon, passed away surrounded by friends on April 20, 2026.

Jarred was born on March 20, 1980, in San Diego, California to Olivia and Gary Coil. The West Coast was where Jarred’s heart lived. After spending his childhood in Waverly, Iowa, he traveled the country and found his home in Oregon, where he lived high in the mountains, among nature, and without exception. Jarred easily formed instant connections with the people he met. He never met a stranger — and he’d say he knew no one named Stranger.

He cared deeply for his family and friends and was happiest when others were happy. With his wit, cleverness, and unparalleled ability to find humor in everything, Jarred made people laugh even during the most difficult times. Yet, beneath the humor, he made sure that people knew and heard he loved them. To him, love was all he had to give. Jarred’s absence is deeply felt, but his impact remains woven into the lives of those who miss him, and his story continues through his children: Journi, Sebastian, and Everest.

Jarred leaves behind his father, Gary Coil (Sharon Coil); his children, Journi Coil-Vanarsdale, Sebastian Coil-Vanarsdale, and Everest Coil; Journi and Sebastian’s mother, Erica Vanarsdale; Everest’s mother, Jessica Bartscher; his sister, Yolanda Coil (Rob Frew); and his dog of 15 years, Elora. Jarred was preceded in death by his mother, Olivia Coil, whose love he carried with him, always.

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04/23/2026

Paul Frances Meyer

Paul Frances Meyer, 74, passed away unexpectedly on April 19, 2026, in Oregon. He was born February 18, 1952, in Ashland, Ohio, to John J. and Nona Powers Meyer and grew up on the family farm alongside his seven siblings.

Paul graduated from Ashland High School in 1970 and soon after headed west to Oregon, a move that earned him the affectionate title of the family’s “Western Connection.” He loved welcoming family members for visits and proudly served as their personal tour guide. When he returned to Ohio, he delighted in surprising family and friends with his unannounced visits.

In 1997, Paul founded Mountain View Paving, an asphalt plant and paving company serving southern Oregon. He was proud of the quality of work his company delivered and of the strong reputation it earned throughout the region.

An adventurer at heart, Paul loved to travel whether by plane, train, or automobile. He caught the travel bug during a high school trip to Japan, which sparked a lifelong curiosity about the world. He was always ready to hop on a plane—whether returning to Ohio to visit family, vacationing in Mexico, or traveling to Oklahoma to spend time with his daughter, Anna, and her family. Fascinated by trains from a young age, Paul was known in his earlier years to hop aboard railcars simply to see where they would take him. He especially loved driving the countryside, taking the time to learn each mile marker and every town in between, savoring the journey as much as the destination. Friendly and quick with a smile, Paul never met a stranger and made friends wherever he went.

Paul will be deeply missed by his family and friends. He is survived by his daughters, Anna (Kyle) Cochrell and Kaylin (Brett) Provost; his son, Hugh Meyer; and his grandchildren, Brooklyn and Gwendolyn Cochrell and Kole and Lyla Provost. He is also survived by his brothers, Chris (Sharon) Meyer, Dewey (Karen) Meyer, and Dan (Terri) Meyer; his sisters, Mary Cox and Ann Davis; his sister-in-law, Sue Meyer; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, John (JC) and Rex Meyer; and his brother-in-law, Rolly Cox.

Memory Gardens Mortuary in Medford, Oregon is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorial services will be held in both Oregon and Ohio at later dates.