Edward Joseph Clark Jr.

Edward Joseph "Bud" Clark Jr., 61, of Keizer passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 20.

Bud was born in Albany, Oregon on February 23, 1961 to Edward Sr. and Beverly Clark (nee Ready), the oldest of three children. The family settled in Banks, Oregon in 1970, where he graduated from high school in 1979. He went on to receive a business degree from Oregon State University, where he was a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity.

Bud married Linda Elledge of Rogue River in 1988. They had two children, Isaac James in 1990, and Natalie Elizabeth in 1993. Bud and Linda divorced in 1999. His son Michael Ryan was born to Lisa Bowar in 2006. Bud loved his children more than anything in the world.

Bud had a gentle spirit and a tender heart. He saw the beauty in the broken and imperfect, and was drawn to those who walked their own path. His love of music was among his defining qualities; from Dylan, Hendrix, and the Stones, to Tom Waits and Warren Zevon, to Ray Charles and the Temptations. He frequently just missed the trifecta, and was eternally tormented by donks who sucked out on the river. He understood the poetry of Bukowski, and appreciated quality Canadian bacon and a well-executed backdoor cut. He laughed at Harold and Maude, and cried at Sling Blade. He never hated anyone, but he seemed to feel better when some people weren't around. Like the Dude, he abides.

Bud was preceded in death by his son Isaac, who suffered a tragic accident in 2011. They were the best of friends. He is survived by Natalie and Michael; father Ed; sister Suzanne; brother Joe; nieces Ashley and Hannah; and nephew Tucker.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 6 at 1 p.m. at Salem First Christian Church. All are welcome; wear bright colors and a smile.