We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Ruel Allen Robinson, affectionately known as “Bud,” on November 11, 2025, at a hospital in Clackamas, Oregon. He was 97 years old.
Born on March 8, 1928, in Amarillo, Texas, Bud was embraced by his loving parents, Vera and Ruel Robinson. His childhood in Panhandle, Texas, laid the foundation for a life filled with adventure and ambition. A talented athlete, he excelled in track and field at Panhandle High School and loved playing soccer later in life while living in Grants Pass, Oregon. He developed a spirit of competitiveness and teamwork that would stay with him throughout his life. After completing his education, he proudly served in the U.S. Army with a focus on artillery.
Following his military service, Bud pursued higher education at Oregon State University, where he met his beloved wife, Marilyn Harris. The couple married on June 17, 1951, at the First Methodist Church in Eugene, Oregon. Their love extended across oceans as they engaged in missionary work in India, where Marilyn taught reading and Bud contributed his expertise in agriculture. During this time, they welcomed their first two children, Jim and Becky.
Upon returning to the United States, Bud began his career with Lane County and later with the State of Oregon. His work took the family to many picturesque communities throughout the state, including Eugene, Corvallis, Forest Grove, Newport, South Beach, Grants Pass, and Salem. During these years, they were overjoyed to complete their family with the births of their younger children, Mike and Linda. An enthusiastic coach, Bud dedicated his time to the youth of these communities by coaching soccer, embodying a spirit of mentorship.
Between 1970 and 1971, the family lived in Illinois, during which time Bud worked in sales while Marilyn pursued her master’s degree in math education. Afterward, they returned to Oregon, where Bud resumed his career with the state as a real estate appraiser. His career was a source of great pride; upon retiring in the 1980s, he started a private appraisal business to keep his mind engaged. A significant chapter of his later years came in 1991 when he and Marilyn spent a year living in Japan, creating lasting memories that always brought a sparkle to Bud’s eyes.
In 2002, Bud and Marilyn moved to Rose Villa in Milwaukie, Oregon to enjoy their retirement. Bud cherished the companionship he shared with Marilyn for 55 wonderful years until her passing in 2006. In 2007, he found love again with Charlotte Rice, a dear friend of the family. They married April 28th, 2007 and enjoyed life together until her passing 13 years later.
Bud’s passions were many—gardening, fishing, singing in the church choir, and traveling all enriched his life. He found immense joy in connecting with others through music and was deeply involved in the United Christian Fellowship of Rose Villa and the community gardens, leaving an indelible mark on those around him.
A man of deep faith, he was involved in many ministries, including Marriage Encounter, Stephen Ministries, Habitat for Humanity, and an after-school drop-in program. He lived a life of service, a legacy reflected in the sentiments of those who knew him best. It was common to hear, “We know Bud, we love Bud,” followed by a story of how he provided welcoming support and fellowship.
Bud is survived by his loving children: Jim (Jeri), Becky, Mike (Camille), and Linda (John). He was the proud grandfather to Kent, Blake, Amy, Angie, Gina, Stephanie, Paul, Debbie, and Maria, and a treasured great-grandfather to 21 great-grandchildren.
Though Bud has left this world, his vibrant spirit and the love he shared will continue to resonate in the lives he touched. He will be dearly missed but forever remembered.
A memorial service celebrating Bud’s life will
be held at the Rose Villa Performing Arts Center (PAC) on Saturday, December
13th, at 11:00 AM. A reception will follow immediately after the service. For
friends and family unable to attend in person, a live stream of the service
will be available via this link: [Bud Robinson Celebration of Life]. All are
welcome to join us in honoring his memory.