From this Chair

By Cloann McNall

The tooth fairy still exists. At least the sweet tooth fairy is still around.

I received a call Monday morning from my long-time friend Judy Stewart Overberg, saying she had left an early birthday present on my front step. But it needs refrigerated right away she said.

Each year Judy brings me a fresh homemade coconut cake for my birthday. It’s the best ever, believe me. 

Judy and I have known each other since the 1970’s when she moved here from Mississippi. Our friendship has continued through the years even though she moved from Orofino in the 1980’s.

The first time I saw Judy was at the front counter of the Clearwater Tribune.

She and her husband Ka-role Overberg divide their time now between Clarkston and Arizona. 

Sunday the Tribune family said goodbye to a special acquaintance, Jeanette Gorman. Her memorial service was held at the Orofino City Park where a large crowd of family members and friends gathered to remember her. 

She died April 21 of pancreatic cancer at age 65.

She was the community relations coordinator for Clearwater Valley Hospital in Orofino and St. Mary’s Hospital in Cottonwood for the past 19 years.

During these years Jeanette became well-known by the news media, in the medical community and a host of other people whose lives she touched.

Her husband, Dave King and sons, Alex and Quinn were among those speaking at the service.

At the close of the service Kathy Hedberg, a reporter for the Lewiston Tribune surprised those in attendance by playing the guitar and singing two of Jeanette’s favorite songs.

We will miss you, Jeanette, and yes, we will keep you in our hearts.

Editor’s note: The latter words are from her requested song “Keep Me in Your Heart for a While” by Warren Zevan.