W. Leland Fishback

Lee was born in Salem, Oregon, to parents William and Amanda Fishback. At the age of 10 he contracted Polio and was treated for ten months at the Shriners Hospital for Children. At the constant prodding and encouragement from brother’s John and Carl, Lee’s journey of overcoming obstacles began. A perfect example was his development of an automobile hand-brake, which he convinced the State of Oregon to approve, allowing him and many others that followed the freedom to drive.

Early on, he learned a strong work ethic on the family farm sewing up the bags of grain on the back of the combine. He also sold newspapers on main-street in Hillsboro near the Piggly Wiggly store.

In high school, he played trumpet in the marching and pep bands. After graduating from Hillsboro High School he moved to Seattle and worked for the government in support of the war. Upon returning to Portland, he began his long career in the trucking business working for a number of regional truck lines. He worked as a rate analyst and was the “go-to-guy” in the industry. He taught rate classes at the community college and helped start the careers of many others in the industry. A career highlight was being recognized as Transportation Man of the Year late in his career. He retired in 1992 from Arrow Transportation.

In 1958, he met the love of his life, Jeanette “Jeanetty” Hulse. A whirlwind romance followed, and on February 7, 1959 a wedding. Low and behold nine months later the first of four children, Ronald, was born. To follow was Susan in September 1961, Mark in January 1966, and Jeffry in December 1967. All four children were raised in the family home that Lee helped construct in the early 60’s thus continuing the family tradition of carpentry.

Family was a priority in his life, with time spent camping, fishing, hunting, hiking, exploring and all types of mechanical repair. He continued these activities with his grandchildren so his traditions will carry on.

After 74 years of being on crutches, a bout with Prostate cancer and a bad fall in 2008, Lee moved to the West Haven Adult Foster Home in the Cedar Mill area. As always, Lee added a spark to the home with big smiles, old jokes and quick quotes that will be told for years to come. Owner Raluca Bogdan and staff Doina, and Laura treated him like family and took loving care of him.

He was a wonderful role model and inspiration for all who knew him. Lee was called home by his lord and savior on Good Friday. He is survived by his wife Jeanette, oldest son Ron (wife Beth), Susan (fiancée Scott), Mark, Jeff (wife Trish) grandchildren Grant, Kariss, Tyler, Spencer and Nick. Lee is also survived by his brother John.

A celebration of life honoring W. Leland Fishback will be held on Saturday, April 13, at 2:00pm at Cedar Mill Bible Church located at 12208 NW Cornell Road, Portland, OR 97229. In lieu of flowers you can make a donation to The Shriners Hospital for Children or Cedar Mill Bible Royal Family Kids Camp.

Contributions can be made in Lee's name to Shriner's Childrens Hospital by visiting www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org and click on the donate now button and select the Portland, Oregon hospital. Or you may make a donation to Cedar Mill Bible Church c/o Royal Family Kids Camp 12208 NW Cornell Road Portland, OR 97229.