Ray «Bud» Burgess was born the first day of Spring, March 21, 1924, to Ray Peter and Margaret Burgess. His roots began in the Rockwood area of Portland.

He is survived by his daughter, Sandra Rae Stumpf and son-in- law Jim. Four grandchildren and their spouses, Heather & Brandon Johnson, Jaimie Stumpf, Abby Rae & Tyler Eveson and Ryan and Emily Stumpf. Four great-granchildren, Peyton and Tristan Stumpf and Macy and Riley Johnson. Also soon to be expected Baby Eveson. Also his brother Robert Bairens and many beloved nieces and nephews, family and friends. Not to forgotten his Dog Ty.

He was pre-deceased by his wife of 65 years Betty Mae (Strait), his sister Violet and his many dogs and cats.

Bud attended Roosevelt High School in North Portland. As many did at that time he left school early to join military service during WWII to defend his nation and freedom.

Bud was from what many refer to as «The Greatest Generation».

Bud enlisted into the Coast Guard which during war time is part of the Navy. His Duty was on the Frigate Coronado as Gunners Mate. He served his time in the Pacific escorting and defending supply ships to our troops. Tokyo Rose a war time radio personality from Japan always talked to the Coronado, letting them know they were a target. He fought in the Battle of Leyte Gulf in the Pacific. The largest battle in the Pacific.

When his ship was commissioned he sailed from Boston around Alaska, to the Pacific, thru the Panama Canal and back to the East coast. He always said he had all the ship time he ever wanted. He needed no more cruises.

Bud was never bitter toward those he fought against in WWII. It was another time. He knew that they were just another citizen of their country fighting a nations fight. Under other circumstances they would have just been friends.

He married Betty Mae Strait from Portland in 1943. They were married in Long Beach Ca. before he shipped out. After Bud’s return from WWII they settled in Portland. Sandra Rae was born in July 1946. Bud worked on the railroad, as a welder at Moore Dry Kiln, Portland Police, sales with Best Foods and S & W Foods. He went to work for Coast Distibutors and in 1960 was transferred to Eugene Oregon as Manager of the Olympia Distributorship. He also worked with different distributorships in the Eugene area.

Bud and Betty loved to sing and participated in their church and school programs for their daughter’s Beach Elementary School in Portland. Bud sang until his last day.

Bud was a member of the Elks, Eagles and Lions Clubs. Most importantly he was a member of the Eugene River Road American Legion. His side job was the times he helped Betty, who worked for Lane Co. Elections Division, volunteering to drive around the county picking up ballots before the day of mail-in-ballots. He was always a supporter of those less fortunate then himself and causes for children. He enjoyed sports. He was a proud fan of the University of Oregon Ducks, Portland Trailblazers and Seattle Mariners.

A great animal lover, they took in the many strays, cats and dogs that seemed to know which doorstep on which to land. Dad loved to sing even if it was to his dog and cat. They seem to appreciate it also.

Upon Betty’s death Bud returned to the metro area after 50 years in Eugene. He purchase a house near his daughter and enjoyed his view of the river and sunset. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren and his great grandchildren grow and thrive . He lived on his own until the end.

His last big trip was with Bend/Portland Oregon Heroes Honor Flights to Washington DC. A three day trip of 50 veterans with 50 guardians to see the WWII and other memorials, along with our Nation’s Capital. Our veterans were honored by our congressional representatives and given the recognition they so richly deserved. He said «It was the trip of a lifetime.»

Jim and Sandy both got to share this most amazing trip with Bud.

Please consider in lieu of flowers a donation to one of the suggested recipients.

Love Life and Sing Loud