Wilbur “Web” Hallauer, 99, died peacefully in his sleep in Oroville, Washington, on December 19, 2013. Web was born in Webster, New York, and moved with his family to Yakima at age 12.

He graduated from the University of Washington in 1937 with a degree in Labor Economics and moved to Oroville to run the Oroville drying plant of the family’s fruit processing business, Valley Evaporating Company.

Web became active in politics starting in 1943 as a councilman in the town of Oroville. He was very proud of his public service career, serving eight years in the Washington House of Representatives and 12 years in the State Senate. During this period, he was chair of the House Revenue Committee and the Senate Appropriations and Ways and Means committees.

Web was a champion of civil liberties, who proudly defended Representative John Goldmark during Washington State’s “McCarthy era.” Appointed by Governor Dixy Lee Ray, he went on to act as the Director of the Department of Ecology from 1977 to 1980. Web was a voracious reader with a keen intellect who loved to travel. He was a proud member of the American Civil Liberties Union.

Web is survived by his daughter Teri, grandchildren Lily, Andrew, Natalie and Geoff, as well as his sister-in-law, Barbara Forrester. He was predeceased by his daughter, Merry Hallauer and his wife, Jospehine Pardee Hallauer.

During his last years, he was lovingly cared for by Ludie Pollard. We are forever grateful to Ludie, whose love and generosity brightened all of our lives, especially Web’s, these last years.

Friends and family are invited to join in a life celebration on Sunday, May 25, 2014, at Osoyoos Lake Veterans Memorial Park in Oroville, Washington, from 1-5 p.m.

Charitable donations may be made to Densho – The Japanese American Legacy Project.

Bergh Funeral Service of Oroville/Tonasket in care of arrangements.