Obituary of Foster Scholl

Foster Scholl was born in Falls City, Oregon, third of four children of Fred and Luella (Ward)Scholl. He grew up on his parents farm which was later acquired by the United States Government to become the U.S. Army division training facility, Camp Adair. His family then moved to Nashville, Oregon where he attended school in nearby Siletz. Foster joined the Navy three days after his 17th birthday, September 18th, 1943. He served aboard the USS Marcus Island (CVE77) . His highest rank was Quartermaster Seaman and he served as a signalman aboard ship. The USS Marcus Island was involved in several major battles during WWII. He participated in the Battle of Leyte Gulf which in conjunction with other ships and aircraft, forced a Japanese Naval Task Force to retreat with heavy damage, all the while enduring large caliber gunfire to the USS Marcus Island. He also participated in the strike, initial seizure and occupation of Okinawa. In an operation in conjuntion with the occupation of Mindoro, Philippine Islands, December 15, 1944, the USS Marcus Island was under direct air attack by the Japanese. Once by two dive bombing Zekes which were shot down and crashed close aboard and once by one glide bombing Judy which dropped a bomb narrowly missing the ship. The ship sustained some damage and there were casualties. The USS Marcus Island received 4 Battle Stars during WII. Foster earned and received 6 Bronze Stars; the World War II Victory Medal; American Theatre; Asiatic Pacific with 4 Bronze Stars and was authorized to wear the Phillippine Liberation Ribbon with 2 Bronze Stars. In addition to the USS Marcus Island, he served aboard the USS North Carolina and the USS Hector. On November 15, 1948 Foster married Zada Beth Lyons. They were married for 47 years before she passed away in 1995. After the war, Foster worked for the Oregon State Fish Commission for a short time and then found the job he loved, Truck Driving. He drove for Consolidated Freightways in Grants Pass, Oregon. Then in about 1958 transfered to Portland and resided in Beaverton. He also drove for Transwestern and System 99 trucking companies and was a proud member of the Million Mile Safe Driving Club before retiring in 1985. In 1999 Foster married Marji Wolfer. He is survived by his wife Marji, sisters Gertrude Cook and Barbara Bilsland, daughter Deborah Swan and her husband Terry, Granddaughter Tara Stearns and her husband Christopher and two Greatgrandchildren Cameron and Madailein. Sister Eileen Abraham preceded him in death. Foster loved country music, motorcycle trail riding, camping, fishing and just being outdoors. He also enjoyed flea marketing and collecting "stuff". Always a country boy at heart, he was never without a tractor of some fashion, spending hours tinkering with them his workshop. His life also included many dogs and pets thoughout the years. He had a way with animals, they all loved him. Foster was a kind and generous man who loved his family and was always quick with a smile and a "hand up" to anyone that needed it. He will be missed by all those fortunate enough to have known him. A gathering will be at Deborah and Terry's home after the service. Donations in his memory may be made to Legacy Hopewell House, 6171 SW Capitol Highway, Portland, Oregon 97239 or The Alzheimer's Foundation of America Service Information