Frank Woodrow Moore

Frank Woodrow Moore passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, May 18, 2024, just one
month shy of celebrating his 107th birthday. He was born on June 26, 1917, in McMinnville,
Oregon, and spent his formative years under the loving care of his grandparents on a family
farm in Warrenton, OR. Frank's childhood was filled with the simple joys of farm life: working
the land, hunting, fishing, and swimming in the nearby river. After graduating from Salem High
School in 1937, Frank's life took a momentous turn when he met Violet Rebecca Kruger at Court
Street Christian Church. Their bond grew strong, and they exchanged vows on October 17, 1937.
During World War II, Frank proudly served his country as a Seabee in the Navy, stationed in
Trinidad. Despite the challenges of wartime, the birth of their daughter, Laura Kathleen, in May
1941, brought immense joy to their lives. Following the war, Frank and Violet relocated to
Michigan, where Frank worked for Ford Motor Co. However, the pull of family drew them back
to Salem, OR, where Frank built a home for his growing family on Rosemary Lane. There, amidst
the joys and challenges of raising Laura, Frank worked tirelessly to support his family, holding
various jobs including farming, cannery work, and railroad employment.
Eventually, Frank found his niche as an engineer with the Oregon Highway Department, where
his contributions included identifying and naming many roads throughout Oregon. Frank and
Violet realized their dream of rural living when they moved to Orchard Hits Rd, where they
enjoyed gardening, tending fruit trees, and watching wildlife. Their home became a hub of
warmth and hospitality, as they delighted in hosting family and friends.
Frank's love for his family knew no bounds. He reveled in watching Laura blossom into
adulthood, celebrating her marriage to Jerry Watson and the arrival of their grandchildren.
Frank's devotion to his family extended to his role as a grandfather, never missing a birthday
party, holiday celebration, or soapbox derby race.
Beyond his family, Frank had a passion for travel. He and Violet embarked on a memorable
journey to the holy lands with friends from Court Street Christian Church, creating cherished
memories that they fondly recalled in later years. After retiring in 1976, they embraced the
freedom of the open road, spending winters exploring the beauty of the Northwest, Canada,
Southwest, and Mexico in their beloved motorhome, parked in their backyard as a testament to
their enduring wanderlust.
In 1999, Frank endured the heartache of losing Violet, his beloved wife of 62 years and faithful
companion. Yet, Frank's indomitable spirit endured, and a few years later, he found
companionship and joy once again in Toini Osmus. They shared 23 years of laughter, love, and
adventure, traveling to the coast and admiring covered bridges together.
Frank is preceded In death by his wife Violet Moore, Daughter Laura Watson and grandson
James Eugene Watson.
Frank Woodrow Moore is survived by his wife Toini Osmus Moore, son-in-law Jerry Watson,
grandchildren Jarius Watson, Frank Watson and Rebecca Gray and nine great-grandchildren,
and four great-great-grandchildren. Though he has departed this earthly realm, Frank's legacy of
love, resilience, and adventure lives on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
A ceremony to honor and remember Frank will be held on May 28, 2024. The day will begin
with a graveside service at Belcrest Memorial Park, Block 17, Section17, Lot #1, 1295 Browning
Ave S. Salem, OR 97302, with military honors at 2 pm. Following this, a memorial service will be
held at Court Street Christian Church, 1699 Court St. N.E., Salem, OR 97301 at 3:00pm
Frank will forever hold a special place in the hearts of his family, friends and community. May
his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.