Jan. 22, 1920-Jan. 13, 2007
Willis L. (Bud) Lowe, 86, died Jan. 13, 2007 in Medford.
He was born in Chehalis, Wash., on Jan. 22, 1920 to Ferrell L. and Alice Lowe. He was married to Ruby Rockwood for 46 years until her death in 1987. He married Bettie Stillwell in 1990. She died in 1993.
After serving as a training sergeant in World War II, Mr. Lowe returned to Oregon and logging. He was a self-employed log truck driver all over the state of Oregon for more than 44 years. He owned and operated his L.J. Mack truck for 25 years and put 2.5 million miles on that truck. He also owned his own logging company for several years in Toledo.
After retiring the Mack, he eventually bought a new Peterbilt truck and was driving that truck until he was forced to retire due to an injury.
The Lowes lived in Brookings for many years before moving to Sweet Home.
He was an “awesome” fisherman, according to family members. He caught a 64-pound salmon in the mouth of the Chetco River and was very proud of the size of that fish until two weeks later when his wife, Ruby, caught a 65 pound salmon in the same area. Mr. Lowe could stand on the bank of the Chetco River beside other men fishing and he would be the one person to catch the fish. He was very generous and gave away many of his salmon to his friends.
He moved to Medford to live with his daughter after suffering several strokes. He was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His life stories will be forever remembered by his family. He had an extraordinary memory and lived a full and remarkable life.
He is survived by his son, Richard L. Lowe of Maui, Hawaii; his daughter, Deanna “Dee” Dirks of Medford; seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, wives, and one great-granddaughter.
No funeral service is planned.