Emery Earl Cameron
May 6, 1930 – January 26, 2022
Age 91 · Ontario, Oregon
With deep love and reverence, we announce the passing of Emery E. Cameron, who left this world peacefully at his home in Ontario, Oregon, on January 26, 2022, at the age of 91.
Born on May 6, 1930, in Kimberly, Idaho, to Edith Matilda Davis and John Emery Cameron, Emery grew up alongside his siblings: Marjorie, Keith, and later Fern, who—according to Emery—was “traded for an old roan cow,” a humorous memory that encapsulates his lifelong wit.
In 1938, the Cameron family relocated to Big Bend, south of Adrian, where they lived their first year in a 16-foot square tent, burning sagebrush for heat. Emery began 3rd grade at Wade School, traveling 2 miles each way by foot, horseback, or bicycle. He graduated from Adrian High School in 1948.
During his school years, Emery noticed two new sisters—Marjory and Joyce Jelinek. Emery and Marjory LaVonne Jelinek were married on January 14, 1950, at the Presbyterian Church in Adrian. They built a life together on the family farm, raising four children and moving several times around the Adrian area before finally settling in Ontario in July 2018.
Together they raised a loving family:
- Ann Marie Cameron, married to Mike Bell of Ontario
- Richard G. Cameron, married to Heidi Kennington of Ontario
- Joy Lynn Cameron, married to Bill Phelps of Adrian
- Tami Cameron of Ontario
Emery and Marjory were blessed with 16 grandchildren and 45 great-grandchildren.
A Life of Service, Faith, and Craftsmanship
Emery was a farmer, cowboy, pilot, and a master mechanic—a man known for fixing everything from cars to irrigation pumps. His shop was often lined with 4 or 5 vehicles or machines awaiting his skilled hands. His journals from 1998 to 2001 reflect a man constantly in service—traveling to homes and ditch banks, repairing what others could not.
Emery and Marjory joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on March 26, 1960, and were sealed as a family in the Idaho Falls Temple on March 15, 1962. Emery faithfully served in many church callings, including:
- Assistant Finance Clerk
- Executive Secretary
- Counselor in two different Bishoprics
- Assistant in the High Priest Quorum
They also served for many years in the Boise Temple, and were renowned Home Teachers, exemplifying quiet service and open-hearted ministry in the Owyhee community.
Funeral Service Details
📍 Owyhee Ward Building
848 Owyhee Avenue, 97913
🗓 Saturday, February 5, 2022
🕘 Viewing: 9:00–10:30 AM (friends), 10:30–11:00 AM (family)
🕚 Funeral: 11:00 AM
⚰️ Interment to follow at Parma Cemetery
🖥 Livestream begins at 9:00 AM and continues through the dedication of the grave. The stream includes family photos and music during transitions and travel.
📺 Watch here: https://inmemorial.us/memorial
“Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”
Matthew 25:21
Emery leaves behind a legacy of faith, humility, laughter, and service. He will be missed dearly and remembered always.
