For first time in decade, married couples celebrate Valentine's Day at Clackamas County clerk's office

When a news reporter asked if they both have the same last name, “We do now!” was the proud reply of Torie and Joe Ketner.

Including the Ketners, Clackamas County Clerk Catherine McMullen officiated 15 wedding ceremonies at her office on Valentine’s Day. Former Milwaukie Councilor Wilda Parks volunteered to bake cupcakes for the celebrants, while former Milwaukie Councilor and current Clackamas Community College Board member Kathy Hyzy decorated the clerk’s office for the big day.

With the special Valentine’s services, McMullen has now officiated ceremonies for more than 70 couples in Clackamas County and neighboring counties, since beginning to offer the service in June 2023.

Clackamas County’s previous clerk, Sherry Hall, had stopped officiating ceremonies in 2014 when gay marriage was legalized in Oregon, but McMullen vowed to bring back ceremonies at the clerk’s office for all couples when she unseated Hall at the beginning of 2023.

“It’s a special privilege to be able to perform this vital function for couples,” McMullen said.

Residents of unincorporated Clackamas County, the Ketners had simple reasons for marrying on Valentine’s Day.

“He’s the love of my life,” Torie said.

“I love Torie with all my heart,” Joe said.

The couple has three children, aged 1, 3 and 5.