Dorothy Ann Blackburn

Dorothy Blackburn passed away peacefully in Hines, Oregon on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. She was born Dorothy Ann Chouinard on July 25, 1932 in Portland, Oregon to Telesphore and Teresa Chouinard. She grew up in Prescott, Oregon and later St. Helen's, where she graduated from St. Helen's High School in 1951.
In her early years, Dorothy was involved in many school activities. She was a member of the Rainbow Girl's Organization, worked at the local movie theater as an usherette, and at Semlings Drug Store.
Dorothy married Richard Vandervort in 1951 and together they had four children: Rick, Debra, Randy, and Dina. The family lived in many places over the years and after the marriage ended in divorce, Dorothy and her four children moved to Burns, Oregon in 1962. Dorothy met Jett C. Blackburn along with his children from a previous marriage, Rex and Kim. Dorothy and Jett were married in 1963 and they welcomed a son, Curtis in 1964, blending their families into a lively and loving home. The family enjoyed summers together, creating lasting memories through fishing and camping trips.
Dorothy was a devoted homemaker who enjoyed decorating her home, staying active in her church, and supporting her community. Dorothy never stopped moving – she was endlessly organized, energetic, and full of purpose. She was an avid reader and a talented painter. Many of her loved ones still treasure her artwork displayed in their homes.
She was a longtime member of St. Andrews Episcopal Church and served on the Vestry. She volunteered regularly at the Senior Center, helping serve lunches and also participated in meals-on-wheels. Dorothy was active in the Order of Eastern Star, ESA Sorority, and volunteered as a Book Buddy at Slater Elementary.
In 1973, Dorothy and Jett–then a real estate broker–built Ponderosa Village, offering rentals for local businesses and opening the Burns–Hines Community's first 7-11 mini mart. Dorothy managed the mini mart for 6 years. In 2001, she and Jett developed the Narrows RV Park, adding many amenities and building it into a place they were proud of. After retiring, they traveled extensively visiting Europe and Hawaii, and enjoying time at their small home on the Oregon Coast in Florence.
Dorothy and Jett built a full, family-centered life, taking joy in watching their children become successful adults. Dorothy especially loved spending time with her grandchildren and seeing them grow. She was endlessly proud of her family, feeling blessed each day and giving thanks to God for the life and love that surrounded her.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, Telesphore and Teresa Chouinard; her sister, June Fleming; her husband, Jett Blackburn; and her beloved granddaughter, Misa Blackburn.
She is survived by her children:
• Debra Tipton and Gary of Eugene, OR
• Rick Vandervort and Plemmie of Longmont, CO
• Randy Vandervort and Tracy of Phoenix, AZ
• Dina Beverly and Brent of Burns, OR
• Curtis Blackburn and Kaeko of Burns, OR
Stepchildren:
• Rex Blackburn and Cindy of St. George, UT
• Kim Blackburn-Betts and Gary of Boise, ID
17 grandchildren
9 great-grandchildren with 1 due in March of 2026.
Her family will honor her with a private celebration of life in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to Harney County Home Health & Hospice or St. Andrew's Episcopal Church.
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