Hoyt Norris "Bud" Colburn

May 06, 1924 - April 08, 2012

Hoyt Norris "Bud" Colburn Obituary (Age 87) Passed away at his home April 8, 2012. He was born May 6, 1924 in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin to Rome and Mabel Colburn. He married Coral Zick in Spokane on February 2, 1946 and celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary just months ago. Together they had two wonderful children, Gregory and Tamara. Bud loved Coral as much as life itself. He enlisted in the US Navy June 26, 1941 and retired as a Chief Yeoman on January 16, 1966. During his more than 20 years of service, it is difficult to single out one particular activity as the most notable of his distinguished career. Likely the most infamous was his service at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 during the Japanese attack. Bud's service continued during the height of the South Pacific Conflict at Guadalcanal, then with the Commander Destroyer Squadron 51 and also included the capture of Japanese ships in the Banda Sea. During his career he received more than 15 medals, awards and commendations. His naval career was followed by 16 years of public service for the US Postal Service. When not serving abroad, Bud called Spokane his home and enjoyed summers at the family cabin on Lake Coeur d'Alene. He was a US hero and embodied all that was great about the Greatest Generation. The heritage of the Colburn family and heritage of America are richer for his life. Bud served as an inspiration leaving behind a legacy of joy, love and honor. We are proud of who he was and what he left behind. He was a life member of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Assoc., member of the Navy League and a member of Lincoln Heights Congregational Church. Bud is survived by his loving wife Coral; grandson Brandon J-Hoyt Colburn; granddaughter Kelly Lowe Colburn and daughter-in-law Jennifer Colburn. He was preceded in death by his son Gregory Allen; daughter Tamara Ann Scotten and sister Gertrude Nell Guyette. Memorial Service 1PM Saturday, April 14, 2012 at Lincoln Heights Community Church, 3527 E. 29th. Ave. Spokane, WA 99223. Memorial contributions may be made to the church or Honor Flight Network, 300 E. Auburn Ave. Springfield, OH 45505.