Gerald (Dobe) Harding April 16, 1941 - April 1, 2011

Dobe Harding of Bend passed away on Friday, April 1 in Crane while hunting with friends. He was 69 years old.

He was born in Aberdeen, Washington, on April 16, 1941. His parents were Milford (Mel) Harding and Kittie Barbara (Wendorf) Harding.

As a child, Dobe attended school in Arlington, Oregon, then attended high school in Stayton and graduated in 1959.

After moving to Central Oregon from Stayton in the 1970s, Dobe had a plumbing and heating business in Sisters. Over the years, he lived in many places, including Maui, San Jose, California, Redding, California, and La Pine.

Dobe enjoyed fishing, hunting, and was talented in fabricating metal and welding. He was witty, and had the ability to make people laugh, and was a great conversationalist. He also loved music.

He is survived by his wife and partner of 32 years, Toni; daughter Lisa Davis of Bend; son Brad Harding of Bend; stepson Dude Aylor of Sisters; and 11 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son Rick in 1995.

Dobe will be missed so much by everyone who knew him, loved him and enjoyed his company, family and friends alike. He was a very special person.

Memorial services and a potluck dinner will be held at Three Sisters Fellowship Church at 442 Trinity Way in Sisters on Friday, April 8, at 1 p.m.