Jerry Bud Murray Rice

May 9, 1932 – April 27, 2012

Jerry "Bud" Murray Rice passed away on April 27, 2012, from complications from Parkinson's disease. He was 79 years old. Bud was born to Elmer Rice and Ruth Robertson Rice in Avery, Oklahoma on May 9, 1932. The family which consisted of Elmer, Ruth, and older brother, James moved to Palisade, Colorado in 1933. The family grew to include three brothers and one sister (Michael, Frank, John, and Amelia). Bud graduated from Palisade High School in 1950, and served in the United States Navy from 1952 to 1956 during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged at a rank of Petty Officer 2nd Class. Bud achieved a degree in primary education and taught in the local District 51 schools. He worked in construction, uranium mining, fruit farming, and drove his own semi tractor trailer for years. Bud is survived by his son, Jerry "JD" Dale Rice of Forest Grove, OR; brothers, James "Jim" Rice of Sacramento, CA; Michael "Mickey" Rice of Palisade, CO; sister, Amelia "Amy" Vercruyssen of Shingle Springs, CA, and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers, Frank Rice and John "Jonny" Rice. When Bud was not working, he enjoyed many hobbies, among them were camping, fishing, hunting, wood working, and spending time in the shop. Graveside services will take place at the Veteran's Memorial Cemetery in Grand Junction on Thursday, May 3, 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made tot he Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.