Herbert D. Towe's Obituary
A DECORATED OFFICER AND WORLD TRAVELLER
Herbert Towe was born on April 29, 1933 in Lynchburg, Missouri. As the oldest of three boys in Avril and Mina Towe’s family, he grew in the role of a kind and caring mentor. After finishing high school, he immediately enlisted in the US army and embarked on an impressive 22-year career.
Herbert’s progress in the military took him throughout Europe. His assignments in Germany and France were among his favorite locations. He was proud to have served in the Vietnam War performing the challenging tasks of a Radiology Specialist. He traveled across numerous military encampments providing diagnostic support services to the wounded in medical stations. Herb was honored with a Bronze Star in recognition of his contribution to US efforts in Vietnam.
AT HOME IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST
In 1958, Herb’s family visited the Pacific Northwest and loved the area so much they settled in Tacoma, Washington. From that point on in his life, Herb considered the area his home and became a much-loved and much-respected member of the community. Upon completion of his overseas military tours, Herb became a Non-Commissioned Officer at the Madigan military hospital in Lakewood, Washington. He thrived in his role as head of the Radiology department and thoroughly enjoyed his work there.
A MODEST PROPOSAL
Whenever he visited his mother in Tacoma, he would take her out to dine at the Moose Lodge. It was his favorite restaurant especially because of a favorite waitress. Patricia was happy to serve Herb and his very young-looking mother, but was initially not too responsive to Herb’s attempts at flirting. It was only when Patty realized that Mina was Herb’s mother – and not his wife as she had assumed – that their courtship took flight. In 1988, Herb observed that Patty needed medical insurance. “Let’s get married,” said Herb. “Okay” said Patty.
After he retired from military service, Herb worked as a carpenter. He always enjoyed woodworking and had a real talent for crafting with his hands and building things. During his travels in Europe, he had come to appreciate fine furniture and rare antiques. He liked to source and collect hutches, glass work, painted eggs and beautiful European pieces. This passion led to Herb and Patty opening a 3,500 square foot antique store. They bought, sold and traded items with customers and with other family members in Texas who also traded in the antique market.
A VERY SPECIAL MAN
Over the years, Herb became involved with the Goodwill organization and lent his many skills and talents to the development of their chain of second-hand stores in the area. His kind, nurturing spirit was so appreciated by the many people he mentored and the many children he “adopted” over the years. He was always willing to take someone under his wing; to share his knowledge and help them out.
Herb was constantly on the go. He worked tirelessly in his garden to create a haven for the birds he so enjoyed watching. His immaculately landscaped yard featured many trees and bird feeders along with the beautiful arbor and triple pond he built. He loved his garden, his home and his family. Herb passed away on May 4, 2012 at the Madigan military hospital where he worked for much of his career. He will be fondly remembered by family and friends as a loving, caring, talented, kind, funny and very special man.
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