Funeral homes often submit obituaries as a service to the families they are assisting. However, we will be happy to accept obituaries from family members pending proper verification of the death.
Sarah Theresa Shinkle, age 83 passed away peacefully with her children surrounding her on Dec. 23, 2025, at Providence Portland Medical Center just 4 short months after the passing of her loving husband Dale. Sarah was born in Oroville, California, on Nov. 19, 1942, to John Beleele and Corda “Pat” Beleele Meuhlhauser.
Sarah shared a long and devoted marriage with her husband Dale and their bond remained strong throughout their lives. Her passing so soon after her husband reflects the deep connection they shared and leaves a lasting impression on all who knew them.
Sarah was a waitress in her younger years, working at Hood River Restaurant and The Sundowner (later named China Gorge). She later worked as a house cleaner and had many clients. She retired from working at State Farm for Tony White.
Sarah will be remembered for her quiet strength enduring love for her family and the grace with which she carried herself through life. Above all else, Sarah loved her children deeply. Her care, devotion and unwavering love for them defined her life and will remain her greatest legacy. Sarah also loved sharing her testimony and the gospel. Her faith was a guiding light throughout her life, and she spoke openly of her beliefs and found joy in encouraging others through her words and examples.
Sarah was preceded in death by her husband Dale, parents, brothers Howard, Robert and sister Betty. She will be terribly missed by her children, Alan Shinkle and wife Heidi Klein, daughters Marcella Brooks and Meredith Shinkle; and black kitty “Dude.”
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, Jan. 11 at 3 p.m. at Anderson’s Tribute Center, 1401 Belmont Ave., Hood River. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com.
Columbia Gorge News, Jan. 7, 2026
To plant a tree in memory of Sarah Shinkle as a living tribute, please visit Tribute Store.
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