Jake Walsh, a recent member of the Oregon Right to Life board of directors, passed away in August. Serving on the board for more than 30 years, he saw many changes over the decades. Jake always had an encouraging word to offer. He was known on the board for his easy laugh and attention to detail.
He was instrumental in creating ORTL’s first database. Jake worked for PGE in information systems and programming. He was a pioneer in the field and applied his knowledge in turning a box of notecards into a pile of IBM punch cards that could be used to print mailing labels. He also created a program to track pledges for the early pro-life jog-a-thons.He was a man of deep faith. He was a devout Catholic and belonged to St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Forest Grove for 80 years. Jake is survived by seven of his eight children. He would want everyone to know how much he loved them and his 24 grandchildren and 48 great-grandchildren.
