The community of Orondo, Washington, is mourning the tragic death of Robert M. Lister, a 69-year-old resident whose life was lost during the devastating Chelan Hills Fire.
Lister’s remains were discovered inside a burned vehicle in the wildfire zone on July 5. After weeks of investigation and identification efforts, authorities confirmed his identity on August 31, bringing a painful answer to his family, friends, and loved ones.
According to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, relatives reported that Lister had not been heard from after evacuation orders were issued in the area. Deputies later located a vehicle that had gone off the roadway and was consumed by the fire. Human remains were found inside the burned vehicle.
The Douglas County Coroner’s Office subsequently completed the identification process, confirming that the remains belonged to Robert M. Lister.
Authorities said available evidence suggests Lister’s vehicle may have left the roadway while he was evacuating during the wildfire. However, the exact circumstances surrounding the vehicle leaving the roadway and Lister’s death remain under investigation.
The Chelan Hills Fire began near U.S. Highway 97 on July 4 and went on to burn thousands of acres across Douglas County. The wildfire affected numerous residents and communities, including areas around Chelan Hills and McNeil Canyon, while homes and other properties were destroyed.
For Lister’s loved ones, the confirmation of his identity has brought both clarity and renewed grief. His death represents a heartbreaking loss for those who knew him and for a community continuing to recover from the devastating effects of the wildfire.
As the Orondo community remembers Robert M. Lister, family and friends are left to hold onto the memories of his life while mourning his sudden and tragic passing.
