Jefferson County is a community built on deep roots -- families who have farmed this land for generations, elders who carry the traditions of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, veterans who served their country, and everyday neighbors whose quiet contributions shaped life in Madras and across the high desert plateau.

Each week, the Madras Bulletin honors the memory of community members who have passed. If you have a loved one you'd like remembered in our pages, please reach out to us at the Madras Bulletin.

In Memory of William A. Bauer

William A. Bauer, 71, of Canby and Madras, Oregon, passed away on March 21, 2026. Born August 26, 1954, he was a beloved husband, father, and member of the broader Central Oregon community. His family asks that those who knew him hold his memory with warmth.

Honoring Our Community's Elders

This spring, the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs welcomed the opening of a new art exhibition honoring the memory and living legacy of tribal elder and renowned artist Lillian Pitt. The exhibition, "Art, Memory, Home," opens May 21 at The Museum at Warm Springs and runs through October 10 -- a testament to the way Jefferson County honors its elders not just in death, but in celebration of life and culture.

"The strength of this community comes from that mix and from the willingness of people here to collaborate, adapt and think long term."

That sentiment, expressed recently by a Jefferson County community leader, speaks to something deeper than economics. It speaks to the character of a place where neighbors still show up for each other -- at funerals, at potlucks, at school events, and at the Saturday Market.

Submit a Memorial

The Madras Bulletin welcomes obituary submissions from families and funeral homes across Jefferson County. To submit a notice or memorial, please contact us through our website or call the Madras-Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce at 541-475-2350 for referrals to local funeral services.

Our thoughts are with all Jefferson County families who are grieving. This community's strength is its people -- and those who have passed remain part of its story.

Funeral Homes Serving Jefferson County

  • Madras Funeral Home -- serving families in Madras and Jefferson County
  • Oregon Cremation services are also available for families seeking affordable end-of-life options

To submit an obituary for publication in the Madras Bulletin, email our editorial team. We publish obituaries as a free service to the Jefferson County community.