HEPPNER – Fred E. Harnden, 65, of Heppner died Friday, Dec. 17, 2010, at Pioneer Memorial Hospital in Heppner. A memorial gathering for family and friends will be held Thursday, Dec. 23 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Heppner Elks Lodge.

Mr. Harnden was born Feb. 2, 1945, in Prineville to Delbert and Hattie Bottcher Harnden. He was raised and attended school in Mitchell and then at Heppner, where he graduated in 1964 from Heppner High School.

He entered the Army, serving during the Viet Nam conflict. After his discharge he returned to Eastern Oregon, working in the Heppner Lumber Mill and the Long Creek Mill, and retiring as a sawyer from the Blue Mountain Lumber Mill after 38 years.

Mr. Harnden is survived by his daughter, Nicole Apperson of Pendleton; brother Kenny Harnden of Athena; sister Lorraine Brosnan of Heppner; and three grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother Gary Harnden.

Memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s favorite charity.

Sweeney Mortuary of Heppner is in charge of arrangements.