Harold C. Teague

Harold C. Teague, age 89 of Cave Junction, died Sunday, November 15, 2009 at Highland House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center.

A memorial service will be at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 28, 2009 at Illinois Valley Funeral Directors with Pastor Ron Marsh officiating. A gathering will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the Illinois Valley Senior Center.

Remembrances may be made to the Josephine County Food Bank, 1470 SE M Street Suite 1-C, Grants Pass, Oregon 97526.

Harold was born July 17, 1920 in Prescott, Arizona to Claude & Wilda (Boren) Teague. A World War II Navy veteran, Harold was stationed at White City, Oregon as a firefighter and later saw action in the Philippines. Harold was a 60-year resident of Coos Bay and Cave Junction communities where he worked, raised family and made lifelong friends. Harold was a mule skinner for the Forest Service and a trail foreman for 15 years along with his beloved burro, Monique. He worked for the Southern Pacific Railroad as a telegrapher and bridge tender, and as foreman for Coos Head Plywood Plant. Harold also worked at the mill in Cave Junction as a night watchman. A master baker and candy maker, he was well known for his Almond Roca, which he either sold or gave away when traveling as a host on tour buses. Harold would entertain the passengers by his vast knowledge of the local folklore and history of the land they were traveling through. He retired as the oldest active firefighter in the Forest Service at the age of 66.

The history and details of his life rest in the memories of everyone who knew and loved him. Harold was involved in local activities and was Grand Marshal in the Labor Day parade this last September. Harold enjoyed the forest, hunting, and fishing in the Illinois Valley. He was a rock hound and collector of Oregon history.

He was a member of Josephine County Historical Society, long time member of the Rogue Gem and Geology Club of Grants Pass and Lifetime member of the Illinois Valley Senior Center.

He had a great love of children and always carried candy in his pocket for them. He was often called Santa Claus, Candy Man or Mountain Man by those who knew him best.

He is survived by his long time companion, Millie Chadderton; his former wife, Louise Teague; a son, Leon Teague; six grandchildren, Derrick, Jeremy, Aaron, Mark, Marilyn, and Ann; and 14 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Jessie and Lois; a brother, Robert; and a son, Larry.