Robert Budlong

Robert Lee “Bob” Budlong was born in Salem Oregon on February 13, 1932 to Percy and Emma (Hudel) Budlong. During his early years, Bob’s family moved throughout the Pacific Northwest, as Percy worked on various electrical projects. They lived in Detroit, Oregon during the building of the Detroit Dam. This is where Bob met Marlene Louise White, whom he married on December 27, 1953.

Bob served in the Navy during the Korean War and later worked in the timber and wood products industry.

Bob and Marlene lived in Portland, Oregon, where they raised their family, from 1959 to 1977. In the mid-1970’s, they settled near Mill City and Bob transitioned to being a process server, a job he enjoyed. He and Marlene were active in the community and their church, Detroit Christian Church. Later, Bob joined Gates Community Church of Christ. Many knew him as a kind, generous man who treated others graciously, without judgment, regardless of their struggles and status.

Bob and Marlene raised two boys and two girls and later enjoyed spending time with their grandchildren.

Marlene preceded him in death. Bob was one of seven brothers and sisters, Ralph, Lucille, James, Richard, Carl, and Nancy, all of whom also preceded him in death. He is survived by his children, Brian Lee Budlong (Mary Ann), Robert Lyle Budlong (Norma Jean, deceased), Clystie Louise Trochlil (Brad), Marci Lynn Rickards, seven grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren.

A service in celebration of Bob’s life will be held on February 18, 2023 at 10 am, at the Gates Community Church of Christ, 40700 Gates School Road, in Gates Oregon, 97346.