Robert A. Lorenz

Robert A. Lorenz May 8, 1924 - December 18, 2008 KEIZER - Our father, Robert A. Lorenz, left this world on December 18, 2008. He left surrounded by the sounds he loved the best, the banter and laughter of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He joined our mother, brother and other family members who have passed. And then mother sent the snow to thank us for letting papa be with them for Christmas and as a diversion to ease our sorrow. Dad was born on May 8, 1924 and lived his early years in Marquam, Oregon. We were told many stories of the adventures he had with his Uncles and siblings as youngsters in Marquam and surrounding areas. Dad graduated from Salem High School in 1942. He joined the army soon after graduation and was a radio operator. Most of his military career was spent deep in the jungles of Burma, India and China. He didn't talk much about his experience, but his mother kept many pictures and mementos that our sister Barbara made into a book. In his younger years, Dad worked at the gas stations and paint store that his father owned, but spent most of his working life as a "pop" man. He first worked for Dr. Pepper Bottling Company which was sold to Pepsi Cola where he continued to work until retirement. There was always a case of soda on the back porch. After retirement, dad started a small green house business. He and mother grew flowers and vegetables for all of us children. If grandkids were at the house they would often be put on "slug patrol" with grandpa handing out the salt shakers and away they would go. Dad was a quiet man with a great sense of humor. He thanked us everyday for taking care of him after mother passed away in 2003. He remained sharp as tack up until his time of passing. He was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Dorathy Mae; and his son, Paul. He is survived by daughters, Carol (Tim) Baughman of Salem, Mary Jane (Mel) Reese of Silverton, Barbara (Hector) Rodriguez, and Debra (Tom) Lorenz; sons, Jim (Chris) Lorenz of Keizer and Roger (Robin) Lorenz of Salem; 15 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren; sister, Marlyn Loew of Seaside; and brother, Louis Lorenz and sister, Becky Gough of Arizona; uncles, Don Olsen of Mt. Angel and Clarence Olsen of Tualatin. A celebration of life will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2009 at the family home on Bair Road. In leu of flowers the family suggests you make a donation to the charity of your choice.