Ina Van Lydegraf, born September 20, 1924, in Salem, Oregon, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2026, in the same city where her life began. The daughter of Pauline Sophia Witte and George John Karl Witte, Ina grew up in Salem and graduated with the North Salem High School class of 1942. She remained a proud Oregonian throughout her 101 years, spending her entire life in the Willamette Valley, except for the more than twenty joyful winters she and her husband spent snowbirding in Apache Junction, Arizona.

Ina met Laude John "Johnny" Van Lydegraf in high school, and the two were married on November 25, 1942. Ina stepped into motherhood with grace, raising her children while keeping a warm, welcoming home. She was an accomplished cook and a renowned baker, the kind of woman whose kitchen always held the scent of something delicious. Her talents extended far beyond the stove as she was a skilled seamstress, an expert at canning and freezing homemade jams and fruit, and a spirited competitor in games like Bingo, Dominoes, Wii Bowling, and the occasional visit to the casino for slots.

Faith was a cornerstone of Ina's life. A lifelong and active member of the Lutheran Church, she found purpose and joy in service. She attended weekly quilting sessions with the ladies of the church, and one of her greatest honors was bringing to life the artistic visions of Pastor Joel Nichol. Ina meticulously sewed his designs into stunning paraments and banners for the sanctuary, altar, pulpit, and lectern. Though she took great pride in this work, she carried that pride with her characteristic humility, always crediting the shared effort and the meaning behind each creation.

Ina's hands were rarely still. She crocheted and knitted beautifully, always working on something for someone she loved. New babies in the family could count on receiving a hat, sweater, and booties all stitched with love.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Johnny, with whom she shared 73 years of marriage, as well as her siblings and her parents.

Ina is survived by her children Donna K. Lindley, Janelle Pearson, and Dale Lynn Van Lydegraf; five grandchildren; two step grandchildren; six great grandchildren; four step great grandchildren; and a lively crew of great granddogs and great grandpigs who brought her endless amusement.

Ina's life was long, full, and beautifully lived. She will be remembered for her steady faith, her gifted hands, her generous heart, and the quiet, enduring love she poured into her family, her church, and her community. Her legacy lives on in every quilt square, every knitted stitch, every shared recipe, and every life she touched with her warmth and devotion.