Jack Ira Townsend

Jack Ira Townsend May 31, 1927 ~ June 3, 2009 Jack Ira Townsend of Independence, Oregon passed away Wednesday June 3, 2009 in Corvallis, Oregon at the age of 82. A special thank you to Avamere Heart of the Valley for the loving compassionate care they gave our father and grandfather. Jack was born May 31, 1927 in Chillicothe, Ohio to Jesse William and Lucy Ann Townsend. He moved to Independence, Oregon as a young man and sent to work for the Oregon State Forestry. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and was proud of his service. After returning for the Marine Corps, he went to work for Georgia Pacific and Champion International until retirement in 1990. He was a life member of the Independence Elks Lodge #1950. He enjoyed Holidays with his family and grandchildren. Baseball was his favorite pastime. Jack is survived by sons Clyde Linda McMillan of Monmouth, OR., Lauris McMillan of Salem, OR, Foster Son Kevin Crowe of Salem, OR., 6 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, brother Ralf, sisters Jean and Ruth. Extended family, Beth Gillander of Independence, OR., and Alfredo Angila Padroza of Independence, OR. He was preceded in death by his wife Luetta in 2001, father Jesse William Townsend, mother Lucy Ann Townsend, son Lonny, great grandson Kace, twin brother Julius, brother Bill and sister Margaret. Graveside Service with Military Honors will be 11:00am Tuesday June 9th at Hilltop Cemetery in Independence. Memorial Gathering will follow at the Independence Elks Lodge. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the Casey Eye Institute in care of Farnstrom Mortuary 410 Monmouth St. Independence, Oregon 97351