Connie Corbet, a Harney County pioneer and longtime resident of the Burns area, passed away May 26. Connie was born in Burns Nov. 14, 1927, to Marcelino and Margarita Osa. Growing up in the Osa Basque boarding house, she learned to work hard, appreciate the importance of welcoming people into her home, and enjoy the boarding house social atmosphere.

Connie graduated from Burns High School in 1946. She married the love of her life, Dick Corbet, on Dec. 23, 1946, and they celebrated 67 wonderful years of marriage together. They began their marriage living at Prather Creek Ranch and the Jenkins Ranch in Diamond, eventually settling in Burns, where they raised their three children.

Connie worked at several administrative jobs while her children were young and moved to a full-time administrative position with Burns Union High School in 1963. She learned her job quickly and took on many additional responsibilities throughout the years. Connie earned the reputation as a producer of high-quality work, a valued team member, and a loyal employee. She worked for the school district for 25 years and retired in 1988.

Connie was an intelligent, strong-willed person who was always up for new adventures. In retirement, she learned to play golf and bridge, excelling at both. She was blessed with several lifelong friends with whom she enjoyed socializing and sharing escapades. They experienced much laughter, good times, and fun together. She always welcomed people into her home.

In retirement, she volunteered at several local nonprofit organizations including the Senior Center, Harney County Museum, Harney Country Library, and Habitat for Humanity. She was an honest and trustworthy person, and helped several senior citizens manage their financial affairs and transition into senior housing.

She is survived by her children, Christy (Roscoe) Skold of Missoula, Mont., Mark (Peggy) Corbet of Redmond, and Ross (Suanne) Corbet of Boise, Idaho; grandchildren, Travis Skold, and Josh (Claire) Skold; six great-grandchildren; sister, Margarita Garatea of Boise; many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews; and close friends, Mary Salsbury, Peggy Sitz, and Mim and Dave Mallea.

She was proceeded in death by her husband, Dick Corbet; her parents, Marcelino and Margarita Osa; two brothers, Marcelino Osa and Frank Osa; and sister, Francisca Osa.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, June 17, at the Burns Cemetery. Following the service, family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of Connie’s life at the Burns Elks Lodge.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the charity of your choice. To share memories and leave condolences for the family, visit Connie’s Guest Book page on the LaFollette’s Chapel Web page by clicking on “Obituaries” at www.lafollettechapel.com.