Tribute to a loving father-in-law

My father-in-law Budd was kind and generous, providing an abundance of love to me since I entered the family in fall 1988 as Michelle’s boyfriend and later spouse. We quickly hit it off and through the years we worked side by side building a fence in the yard, cleaning out the garage and visiting different storage units. Budd showed little or no disappointment when Deloras and I arranged to have the family’s inoperable Peugeot’s towed away from the front of the house. He never quite got around to dealing with the vehicle, but I knew it was time when I noticed tiny plants growing in the carpet in the back seat of the car.

As my second dad Budd was a person you can always count on, and he supported me unconditionally. Through his encouragement, I applied for and received a Rotary International Scholarship to live and study in Nigeria. The opportunity ultimately led to a PhD in cultural anthropology and changed my life forever. Later, Michelle and I moved to Den Haag in The Netherlands where I enrolled in a master's program. Budd and Deloras visited us in The Netherlands, and we traveled to different parts of the country. One of my favorite memories is how upon arrival to the Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, Michelle and I waited for them in the arrivals section. Budd never showed up. In fact, he grew a beard that we didn’t know about, and he walked right past us without us noticing him.

When I visited Budd in Morton in October 2024, we spent time together watching classic western movies, eating pudding and playing tug of war with a squishy ball. I sat next to him while he napped in his reclining chair and thought of the qualities that Budd passed to his two grandsons (my boys) Declan and Wole. Budd’s exemplary life of honesty and integrity as well as his devotion and dedication to family are part of the character of my sons. These attributes are part of Michelle too, who as my partner and spouse for the past 36 years, is a reminder of the beautiful family and world that I belong to thanks to my father-in-law.

I miss Budd. He will always be on my mind. Rest in perfect peace. 

2011 - San Rafael, CA

When our family moved in next door to Budd and Delores, they welcomed us with warmth and care. Bud helped us clean out the unruly, overgrown grasses in our large yard and continued to inspire us with his benevolent neighborliness. We loved seeing him on his morning walks with Ginger, the family dog, and continue to think of the home next door as the Jones's. We will always remember his sweet smile, kind eyes, and uplifting spirit.

I didn't know Budd or Delores as long as many of you, I knew their lovely daughter Gretchen longer.  I finally got to meet Budd & Delores when they built their home here in Morton and they started coming to our church.  I soon learned what great people they are , just gems within our community.  I was able see first hand their love for each other and it was beautiful.   As his days on this earth was lessening, I could still see the sparkle in his eyes.  You are going to be missed Budd.  May your soul fly free but if you can, try and visit once in a while.  Let us know you are ok.     

To Delores and family, we are here for you.  Never forget you can lean on us.  

I'm so grateful for these photos of Budd and Delores back before I knew them.  What a beautiful couple and family!

Pat S.