Bud was given a “miracle” year and “adopted” new friends at his adult family homes. It was a meaningful year of continued hope and affirmations…tears, laughter, and lots of Snickers.
Bud was a twin, sharing the limelight with Betty (Gunz), in Vancouver on November 7th, 1928 to his mother Mary Tavelli McDonald. He was raised by his grandfather Monsuetto Tavelli and uncle “Mac” Tavelli. His Italian relatives settled in Cape Horn, WA. The Tavelli name is preserved in a street sign....and now legendary. Bud spent his entire childhood bouncing around Vancouver, between 18th street downtown and Salmon Creek, and summers in Cape Horn. He grew up in the Vancouver School District and retired proudly as a card carrying member. He worked for Luepke Florist during high school. He graduated from Vancouver High School with the Class of 1947. Bud earned his undergraduate degree from the then Central Washington State College. He intended to become a DJ/radio announcer but learned Central produced teachers.
He taught for one year in Seattle and decided teaching was NOT for him. He enlisted in the Army, intent on contributing to the war in Korea. He earned the rank of Master Sergeant. The Army recognized his leadership abilities, his charisma and that he could type. Bud led trainings…Bud was a Teacher.
He returned to the classroom in 1953 at Salmon Creek School. To the end, he rejoiced in those 6th graders.
He married Betty L. Branch in 1955, whom he had met through his twin, Betty Gunz. Both were employed at the phone company. Bud and Betty raised 3 children and a nephew, “Danny” (Don).
We are SO grateful to call him Dad, Papa, Grandpa, Uncle-and friend of our hearts.
Bud was raised strict Roman Catholic, but raised his family at Columbia Presbyterian Church. He worshipped weekly at First Presbyterian Church next door to his home of the past 20 years. Bud was a true believer and devout Christian. He believed in family: relatives, school family, church family, adopted family. He is best known for his positive attitude, listening ear, nail craft jewelry and sweet tooth.
“He embodied love and friendship.” He found good in literally EVERYONE. You will be missed!
Bud was preceded in death by his wife, Betty McDonald, in 1990; his sisters, Eilleen McDonald and Betty Gunz (twin); younger loved ones, Roy Silvey (son in law), Eveann Misovetz Classen (cousin), Bobby Cotton, Mark Keyser (nephews). He is survived by his daughter, Michele Silvey (Nicholas and Tahlia Silvey); son, Mark McDonald (Cory, Savannah and Halie McDonald), all of Vancouver; son, Michael McDonald and his family, of Silverton; nephew Donald Bledsoe (Di; Colby (Kirsten) Bledsoe, Port Townsend, WA, Torey Bledsoe (Katie, Sophia) of Washougal, WA, Italian relatives: Mike Misovetz (Kathy) of Las Vegas, Maurice Classen of Chicago, IL (Sarah, Lois Eva), Marcel Classen of Stevenson, WA and lots of BRANCHES on the Family Tree.
A private graveside service will be held Thursday. A Celebration of Life will occur on Saturday, January 23rd, 2016 at 2:00pm at First Presbyterian Church, 4300 Main Street, Vancouver. Love gifts may be made to the Vancouver School District Foundation, First Presbyterian Church Piano Fund, Friends of the Carpenter, and The Boys and Girls Town of Nebraska.
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