Obituary
LaVelle Geist, beloved wife, mother, and cherished member of her community, passed away
peacefully on May 11, 2026, at the age of 87. Born LaVelle Jean Finzer on October 9, 1938, in
Portland, she was the daughter of Herbert and Louise Finzer. LaVelle grew up in Portland and
graduated from Grant High School in 1956 before pursuing her passion for home economics at
Oregon State University.
On August 14, 1959, LaVelle married the love of her life, Waynne Geist, at the Sellwood Church
of the Nazarene. Their early years together included a move to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri,
where Waynne served in the United States Army. During this time, they were blessed with their
first child, a son, Randy, in 1963. The family later returned to Oregon, where they welcomed
their daughter Kayrene in 1967, followed by their son Rick in 1968. In 1969, LaVelle and her
family put down roots in Damascus, creating a loving and warm home that would be their
sanctuary still to this day.
Throughout her life, LaVelle and Waynne shared a love of music, singing together in the King
Envoys choir, a source of great happiness for them both. LaVelle and Waynne embraced life
together in every way—except when it came to sewing, which was her special gift, she was a
remarkable seamstress, known for her sewing skills, a talented cook who lovingly prepared
meals for her family, and lovingly cared for all their grandchildren, embodying the heart of a
devoted matriarch.
A woman of profound faith, LaVelle held Jesus Christ as her personal Savior and was an active
participant in women’s Bible studies. Her servant’s heart and dedication as a prayer warrior
were an inspiration to all who knew her.
LaVelle is lovingly remembered by her husband, Waynne, Survived by her brother, Bob Finzer;
her son Randy, Daughter, Kayrene Kelley (Kodiak), and son, Rick Geist (Cherie’), Eight
grandchildren, along with multiple nieces and nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews, and
their families as well.