Harold Wedel

Harold 'Bud' Wayne Wedel

September 29, 1925 - September 27, 2013

Harold 'Bud' Wedel died peacefully two days short of his 88th Birthday at Willamette Valley Hospice, Tokarski Home. Bud was born into the renowned Wedel family that founded the Salem Hospital. Youngest of four brothers he was preceded in death by his brothers Irwin, previous director of Salem Hospital, Paul and Milt.

Bud, instead of a doctor, became a pilot in the Army Air Corps at age 18. While in the Army Air Corps/Air Force he flew fighters and bombers in the South Pacific in WWII, jets in the Korean conflict and trained Korean jet fighter pilots, did mid-air refueling for fighters in the Vietnam conflict, tactical tankers supporting strategic air commands of nuclear bombers and aerial mapped all of the 'Free World'.

He retired a Lt. Colonel in 1969 and moved his family back to Salem. He ran a family farm in Fruitland and a gas station. He was also a farrier and drove buses for the Salem School District until 1990 when he officially retired.

Bud was a great mechanic and loved Model A automobiles, and at one time had three complete and running. He was President of the Willamette Valley Model A Club from the late 1970's till the 1990's.

Bud enjoyed ocean fishing, hiking and camping at many lakes in the Oregon Cascades, and river rafting. Bud re-married second wife, June, in November 2001. They enjoyed many happy years and adventures traveling and going to Air Force reunions, Model A Club activities and split their time between homes in Arizona and Keizer.

Bud was preceded in death by his first wife, Shirley, and son Jerry. Bud is survived by his five children, Connie, Danny, Ginny, Jeffrey, Eric and 9 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren.

The Family would like to thank Senior Helpers and Willamette Valley Hospice for their amazing compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Mid-Willamette Valley Hospice, Salem Hospital, and Keizer Fire Dept.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Fruitland Community Church, 813 63rd Ave NE, Salem, OR on October 19th, at 10 am. Arrangements made by Howell-Edwards-Doerksen With Rigdon Ransom Directors.