Myrtle Fulbright Hjorten

Myrtle Fulbright Hjorten passed away peacefully in Astoria, Ore., on Jan. 22, 2015. Born in Coffee Creek, Mont., Myrtle moved to Payette, Idaho, to spend her younger years with her three sisters (Jane, Erma and Omega Mae) and one brother (Cecil) on the small farm of her parents, Minnie (Stout) and Levi Fulbright.

Myrtle often visited her aunt and uncle in Astoria, and fell in love with Melvin E. Hjorten (RIP June 2008). Mel and Myrtle married on April 6, 1942, and had three children.

Myrtle worked for several Astoria attorneys as a young executive secretary, always producing professional results. Myrtle later moved to a new executive secretary position with the “Alaska Department” of Bumble Bee Seafoods, organizing and managing many numbers and facets of cannery workers and fishermen, resulting in a very successful career.

Myrtle then realized her dream of having their home built on the property she and Mel had purchased as young newlyweds. Both Melvin and Myrtle worked many years for Bumble Bee Seafoods until they both retired to “their house on the hill.” Myrtle was physically strong and mentally willed to “drive nails as good as any local Norwegian carpenter” while building their home.

Mel and Myrtle spent many days in Tolovana Park at their small cabin, enjoying the beach, and hosting friends and family get-togethers. Myrtle also spent time with Mel in the woods of Clatsop County cutting firewood, hauling and stacking split logs, cord after cord, in perfectly aligned rows.

Myrtle opened a small painting shop in town where she sold materials and held tole painting classes. She attended festivals and fairs showing her talents while selling her handcrafted wares. Following the sale of the shop, Myrtle continued to provide tole painting and craft classes at her home for many years. Myrtle loved her time painting!

Myrtle attended First Lutheran Church for her spiritual healing and faith. In our memories, she can now continue her love of painting and enjoy long walks on the beach with her only love. We all love you. Myrtle! Rest in peace.

Myrtle is survived by: her sister, Mae Solterbeck of Payette, Idaho; three children, David, Paul, and Lisa Hjorten; three grandchildren, Erik, Alex, and Curtis Hjorten; and two great-grandchildren, Lars and Else Hjorten.

Myrtle’s memorial contributions can be gifted to Clatsop Animal Assistance, P.O. Box 622, Warrenton, OR 97146.