Alan J Ehry 1941-2013 The Beeman of Dundee

Alan John Ehry, 71, of Dundee died Jan 30.

Alan Ehry, whom we so dearly love.

(DUNDEE, Ore.) - Alan John Ehry was born September 10, 1941 in Cottage Grove, Oregon, to Anna and John Ehry. He was raised on the farm, and there he discovered the wonder of honeybees.

Alan was a U.S. Navy Veteran and part of a group known as the 'Blue Water Navy'; he was honorably discharged in 1962, just prior to Vietnam.

He married the love of his life Marjorie Groesbeck on December 19, 1962 in Albany, Ore and they were blessed with 50 years of marriage.

They launched their commercial beekeeping operation “Happy Bee Apriaries” which quickly grew to a whopping 2500 colonies. In 1965 they moved to the “house on the hill” where they raised bees and kids, and their HONEY sign has become a local landmark.

Alan was a pioneer in the beekeeping industry, the first Oregon beekeeper to move bees into the almonds in California, and all the way to North Dakota. Through the years, the number of hives downsized, but the honey kept on flowing.

In 1988, the couple founded Auction Masters & Appraisals, which continues today. Both of their fathers were auctioneers, so it was a natural evolution of the family business.

Alan loved Oregon, his family property; he loved to build and create and learn new things; he was never fearful, always curious, and jovial as any man who ever lived. He was a helper, and a good friend. Alan Ehry loved with his whole heart.

Survivors include his wife, Marjorie of Dundee; son, Christopher Ehry of Sheridan; daughters, Margie Lovell of Dundee, Bonnie King of Salem, and Peggy DenHoed of McMinnville; brother, C. Wayne Ehry of Newberg; fifteen grandchildren; twenty-four great-grandchildren, and extended family beyond compare.

He was preceded in death by his sister Jean, and brother Clifford.

His Celebration of Life was Saturday, Feb 9, 2013 at the Church on the Hill, McMinnville, Ore. Attrell's of Newberg handled arrangements. Private burial of his remains will take place at a later date.

To send donations in lieu of flowers, deposits can be made to Chase Bank, Acct #2931736172 (For: Marjorie Ehry).

The Video below was produced for and presented at Alan Ehry's Celebration of Life. Please watch, share, and say a prayer. Rest in Peace, dear Dad.

PLEASE WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW, & SHARE WITH ALAN'S FRIENDS AND FAMILY, FAR AND WIDE:

Produced by Bonnie King, daughter of Alan Ehry

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