September 9, 1925 – April 21, 2025

If your life is the ship you sail, then your family and friends are your crew. On board the good ship BUD, the sunsets were admired, the music was classical, and we, his crew, were lucky. Of course, there were a few savage storms, but he trusted that on the other side of each, the horizon would call and smooth sailing would always welcome him. He wished his adventure never to end, but after 99 years, late on April 21, the tiller and sheet beyond his strength, he finally had to let go of living.

In 1963, Bud and Rhoda built the waterfront home they had dreamed of in Clearwater, Florida. After 67 years together, Rhoda died in 2015, and soon after, Bud’s final move was to San Juan Island to be near his son Jon and grandson and granddaughter-in-law Tyler and Aileen. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Perrin and Oscar, his daughter Ann, brother Don, and his family, and sister-in-law Madelyn.

Bud’s favorite interests were design, sailing, good food, and classical music. His best therapy was improvising on the piano. An ever-curious and discerning observer, he grew up on the wisdom of Mark Twain. Bud was an articulate and quotable man, and kept his wit to his end. If you walked in his door, he might say, “There you are,” even if he wasn’t sure who you were. His pleasure in being with you was genuine, so it was your pleasure to be with him. The wonderful team of caregivers who eased and graced his last chapter became his friends too, and knew his gratitude. Bud will be remembered and missed dearly. Thank you Bud!