GRIFFITH, Elton

Elton Griffith was born on October 9, 1917 in Huntington, Ore., to Owen and Dorothea Griffith. He had five siblings, outliving his two brothers and three sisters. His early childhood was spent on Hibbard Creek (a tributary of Snake River). His family moved to the homestead on Dixie Creek; he later bought out his siblings and farmed there for 50 years, raising his family in the house he built. He was married twice, with one daughter (Sharon Griffith) was from his first marriage. He married Margaret Munn on January 30, 1949 and adopted her daughter Julie. They had two children (Mary & Ellen), and were married 65 years. Known throughout the community as “Tuffy” (a well-deserved nickname!), Elton worked at the Lime cement plant for over 40 years as a shovel/heavy equipment operator. He was very involved in the Huntington school and community—on the school board, trustee at the Methodist church, member of the VFW post, and union steward/negotiator for the employees at the cement plant. Tuffy was a 'fix-it' man, always willing to lend a hand to family and friends. The Griffiths were avid square dancers, and 'snowbirds' for many years. They moved to Ontario in 1998, and became involved in their new community and Nazarene church, hosting Bible studies in their home for many years. He is survived by his wife and four daughters and son-in-law Dan. He had eight grandchildren, many great grandchildren, and numerous great-great grandchildren. In his 96 years, Elton exemplified a life well-lived. He will be sorely missed by both family and friends. Services will beSaturday, June 21, at 1 p.m. PDT at the Huntington School Gym in Huntington followed by a potluck at the VFW Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations to the “chapel piano fund” at Presbyterian Care Center would be gratefully accepted.