Hal Richard Lofquist's Obituary
On September 26, 2023, Hal went home to be with our Lord Jesus Christ. He passed away peacefully with both of his children by his side. Hal was born on November 19, 1942, in Los Angeles, California, to Henry and Lucille Lofquist. He was their only child. Hal met the love of his life, Laurine Hartz, at a horse convention they both attended. After a brief courtship, they were married on February 23, 1962. While they lived in California, Hal worked as a farrier. He had many clients, including working on horses for the Hollywood studios, country singers and actors. Eddie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds were clients so when she was here filming Halloweentown, Hal connected up with her. Because of that, he and his brother-in-law, Butch, were able to help the crew on the film set for the day.
Hal and Laurie had two children, Jason and Jodi. In 1971, they moved the family to St. Helens, Oregon, and settled in Yankton. After working various different jobs, Hal joined Local 701 and operated heavy equipment until his early retirement. Hal loved to hunt, fish, build, fix things, and go camping. He and Laurie traveled all over the West coast in their motorhome, including taking trips with close friends and family. For many years Hal volunteered with Columbia County CERT organization. He was always more than happy to help out with all of the events and trainings they sponsored. It was important to him to be involved and was one of the things he enjoyed most. Hal was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He will be dearly missed. Hal is survived by his wife of 60 years, Laurine Lofquist; son, Jason Lofquist; daughter, Jodi Gartman; sister and brother in-law, Butch and Maryann Guess; brother and sister in-law, Robert and Carole Hartz; grandchildren, Brandon, Jesse and Zane Lofquist and Gunnar Gartman; as well as great grandchildren.
A service will be held October 20th at 1:00pm at the Columbia River Foursquare Church in St. Helens.
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