Monty Wayne Wampler

Monty Wayne Wampler passed away peacefully at home in Keizer, Oregon, on September 27, 2024, after a long struggle with Parkinson's. He was 81 years old.

Monty was born in Amarillo, Texas, on June 3, 1943, to Roberta and Marion Brown Wampler, Jr. His family moved to Oklahoma when he was a young boy and eventually moved to Oregon in 1953. Along with his three siblings, Marion Brown III (Brownie), Mike, and Cynthia, Monty grew up in the Lake Labish area, where they spent their days climbing trees, swimming in the Pudding River, and running wild. Monty attended North Salem High School, graduating in 1961. After high school, he attended Merritt Davis Business College and proudly served in the Oregon Army National Guard. In the fall of 1964, Monty met the love of his life, Kathryn Anne Smart, and the two were married on July 8, 1966, in Salem, Oregon. In 1973, after the birth of their first two children, Tyler and Michele, Monty moved his family to Keizer and purchased the house that would become, and still is the family home. He and Kathryn would later welcome two more children, Ryan and Marissa. Monty was a respected small business owner in the community for many years before retiring.

Monty enjoyed camping, fishing, and boating and combined his love for the three with trips to Diamond Lake and Detroit Lake with his family. He was proud of his four children and never missed their sporting and music events, even coaching soccer, softball, and baseball. He enjoyed gardening and took great pride in maintaining his house and cars. After retiring, he enjoyed relaxing at home with a good book, watching documentaries on the History channel, traveling with his wife in their RV to their favorite spots around Oregon, working in his garage, and rooting on his favorite NW sports teams (go Blazers, Mariners, and Seahawks!). Monty was an extraordinarily kind, selfless person; although he was a man of very few words, he made everyone feel loved and right at home. He embodied the expression, "Actions speak louder than words." His happiest moments were those spent surrounded by his loved ones.

Monty was known for his sense of humor, sharp wit, and quoting one-liners from his favorite movies. Monty was deeply committed to his family, consistently putting them first in all aspects of life. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Kathryn, for 58 years and a loving father to his four children. Monty's role as a grandfather and great-grandfather brought him immense joy, leaving a legacy of love to his 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Monty was preceded in death by his parents, Roberta and Marion, his brother, Mike, and sister, Cynthia. Monty's memory will forever be cherished and kept alive by his wife, Kathryn; his children, Tyler (Katie), Michele Watson (Mike), Ryan (Ariel), and Marissa Wilson (Jeff); 11 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren (with two more on the way); and all who knew and loved him.

The void left by Monty's departure is immense, but his life leaves behind a beautiful trail of memories. His legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched and the love he shared with his family and friends.

In honor of Monty, a private gathering of family and close friends will be held on Friday, October 11, to celebrate and share stories.