Charles A. Bigelow

Charles Allen Bigelow (Chuck) passed away on the evening of February 3, 2015 at the age of 95. Charles was born on September 26, 1919 to George A. and Jessie E. Bigelow in Vallejo, CA. He graduated from Vallejo High School and he received a Bachelors Degree in Forestry from the University of Idaho in Moscow in 1948. Charles served in the Pacific Front in World War II as a Tech Sergeant on U.S. Army Supply Ships. He married Ethel Josephine (Jo) Boss on November 17, 1942 in Vallejo, CA. Jo preceded him in death on November 16, 2009 just one day short of their 67th anniversary. In 1949 the family moved to Bend and he worked his way up to become the Manager of the U.S. Forest Service Pine Nursery located NE of Bend in 1961. He held that position until 1974 when he retired. Chuck was very active as a 4-H leader (Forestry, Entomology, and Photography) and was also an active member of the Bend Knights of Columbus (K of C). Charles was even awarded the honor of being named Knight of the Year for the State of Oregon in 1991. He wrote the Central Oregon K of C History from 1970 to 1990, was the K of C Financial Secretary from 1972 to 1986, and was the K of C Treasurer from 1972 to 1986. He is survived by five children Nancy (Alex) Muktoyuk of Portland, OR, Lynne (Larry) Lawson of Bend, OR, Karen Spurlock of Bend, OR, Peggy (Carl) Strand of Vancouver, WA, and Allen (Suzanne) Bigelow of Redmond, OR; seven grandchildren (Mark & Tasha Muktoyuk, Eric Lawson, Tina & Kelly Spurlock, Colin & Spencer Strand) , and two great-grandchildren (Jake Peaslee and Valentina Muktoyuk). His hobbies included hiking in the forest with his dogs, mapping out old Shevlin-Hixon logging railroads, and family genealogy. A special mention is needed for the dedicated staff at Ashley Manor in Bend, where Chuck spent his last 6 1/2 years. A service will be held on Tuesday, February 10, 2015 at 12:15 pm at the Historic St. Francis Catholic Church located at the corner of Franklin Avenue and Lava Road in Bend. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in his honor to the Hospice of your choice. Funeral Home: Niswonger-Reynolds Funeral Home New 105 NW Irving Ave Bend, OR US 97701

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Charles A. Bigelow

September 26, 1919 - February 3, 2015