Gordon (Bud) Anthony Karrer

Gordon (Bud) Anthony Karrer, 73 of Valdosta, GA and adopted son of Texas, passed away on February 11, 2026 in Pheonix, AZ. Born on August 8, 1952 to Althea McCraney and Buddy Esterman and was adopted by Norman (Pete) Karrer. He graduated from High School in Manassas, VA and went on to serve in the Navy (1971-1975). He was a combat veteran, serving two tours in the Vietnam War and won accommodations for bravery. He worked as a long-haul truck driver for over 15 years before going back to his Navy training working on boilers in the power industry. Many know Bud as the owner of “Bud’s Saddlesore Salsa” where he gave away more salsa than he sold and always welcomed folks at his storefront in Taft, CA. Bud loved writing cowboy poetry, cooking, shooting, fishing, and driving “anything with a steering wheel.” He was known for his gentleness, good manners, and his willingness to help anyone who needed a hand. He loved his family and friends passionately and with tremendous loyalty. He would give his last dollar, belonging, or breath if he thought it could help someone in need. Having experienced the hardships of war, Bud was always there to help a veteran and to guide them through the VA bureaucracy or just sit and listen a while.

Bud was preceeded in death by his parents and his sister Melanie. Bud is survived by his wife Judy Karrer, his son and daughter-in-law Nathan and Anne Karrer and their adult children: Luke, Matt, Caleb. Stepson Joshua Tull and children Brody and Gavin, Stepdaughter Kimberly Romero and children Aidan, Lailoni. His brother Kenneth Karrer and wife Rosie and sister Stephanie Karrer. A Military Honor Service will be held on March 27, 2026, from 10:45 AM to 11:15 AM at Bakersfield National Cemetary 30338 E Bear Mountain Blvd.