Story Published: Jan 4, 2009 at 10:34 PM PST
Story Updated: Jan 5, 2009 at 10:33 PM PST
According to Idaho State Police, Cliff Wasem, 80, was driving a Ford Expedition southbound on U.S. 95 at around 12:30. His wife Dorothy, 83, was a passenger.
ISP said Wasem began to lose control of the vehicle and it slid sideways into the northbound lane, where it was struck on the passenger side by a northbound Toyota pickup driven by 60-year-old Dale Nichols of Winchester. The Nichols pickup was carrying two passengers - Forster and 19-year-old Jacob G. Nichols of Winchester.
The Wasems and Forster died at the scene. Dale and Jacob Nichols were transported to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center where they were listed in good condition Monday.
It's unknown if any of those involved were wearing seatbelts. ISP is continuing their investigation of the accident.
Merchant Funeral Home in Clarkston will be handling arrangements for the Wasems. Services are pending.
Cliff Wasem was a well-known and active member of the community. He owned and operated Wasem’s in Clarkston, a pharmacy, store and lunch counter. Active in politics, Wasem served on the Clarkston City Council and held leadership positions with the Asotin County Republicans. He was also involved with the Shriners. He was an active member of the John Birch Society.
Wasem graduated from WSU with a pharmacy degree.
