Methow River claims life of Pateros resident, businessman Alvin Hymer

PATEROS – Family and friends are mourning the loss of Pateros resident and businessman, Alvin E. Hymer, 74, who drowned in the Methow River, Saturday afternoon, June 1, while attempting to rescue his two dogs from the current.

Hymer and his wife were at the river near the confluence McFarland Creek, a popular boat launch site about 14 miles upstream from the mouth of the Methow.

“The dogs were caught in an eddy and Hymer went into the river to help the dogs and as he did he lost his balance and was swept downstream,” said a media release from the Okanogan County Sheriff’s office. “Hymer’s wife saw him get swept down the river and lost sight of him.”

Rescue crews from Okanogan and Chelan counties, fire units, emergency medical service personnel and local citizens joined the search but were unable to locate Hymer. As of this writing the search continues to recover Hymer’s body.

Hymer returned to his Pateros roots and opened the Sweet River Bakery in 2002. Since that time the business has become a popular stop for coffee, desserts, pizza and other treats. Hymer’s son, Alex, joined the business in 2007 to oversee day-to-day operations.