Obituary: Alina Iofciu

Alina Iofciu was born on Oct. 15, 1978, in Bucharest, Romania, during the country’s Communist rule. At the age of 8, she immigrated with her family to Oregon in search of a better life. She grew up in Portland, attended University of Oregon, received her MBA from OSU, and began her career in Seattle before making Hood River her home for the past 14 years.

Alina was a deeply passionate and vital force within the Gorge’s vibrant community and event scene, with a special commitment to the paddle and watersports communities and causes. Volunteering for her first Kiteboard 4 Cancer (KB4C) in 2010 propelled her to start her event production company — Bread & Bash Events, where she continued to volunteer her incredible coordination skills for 10 years with KB4C. She served as chief operating officer for Global Sessions, president of the Outrigger Club and organized the American Water Sports Industry (AWSI) events. Alina also led the annual Hood River SantaCon, supported numerous Elks events, and most recently led the prestigious Gorge Paddle Challenge.

In 2022, Alina met Corey Thrane, the love of her life, and they were married in 2024. Avid campers and hikers, they cherished traveling together — whether heading to the coast, exploring off-the-beaten-path campsites throughout the Pacific Northwest, or sharing a memorable journey through Hawaii’s beautiful landscapes. When not out adventuring, Alina and Corey could often be found bowling together or enjoying the local community and its restaurants.

Alina expressed herself through creativity in all its forms. Whether nurturing her garden or crafting bold, emotionally charged works of art, she infused everything she created with heart and intention. Among her most celebrated works was her striking Skate Deck Series — both provocative and deeply moving — which was showcased in one of Hood River’s premier art galleries.

Known for her honesty, fierce loyalty, and unconditional generosity, Alina was a proud immigrant who held a profound love for America, and the Gorge community. She cherished her friends deeply, embracing them not just as companions, but as family.

As with everything she did, Alina faced cancer head-on for more than 4 years, fighting bravely until the very end. Her tenacity, strength, and determination to squeeze every last drop out of life were awe-inspiring.

Alina was truly one of a kind, and she will be missed more than words can express. She was surrounded by loved ones as she slipped away peacefully on Dec. 15, 2025. She is survived by her spouse, Corey, her dear Aunt Tina and her Romanian family and all those who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

Dream On / 167.

Columbia Gorge News, Jan. 7, 2026