Orville "Buzz" Dow

Orville "Buzz" Dow passed away on October 19, 2025, in Perham, Minnesota, at the age of 90.

Born February 1, 1935, in Rothsay, Minnesota, Orville was the son of William and Martha (Hass) Dow. He attended school in Rothsay before beginning a long and industrious career in transportation and construction.

Buzz began his working life hauling milk for Cass/Clay and later transitioned into road construction. He eventually became a driver for Twin Cities Freight, where he worked until his retirement in 1986. Retirement did not slow him down; after moving to Perham, Minnesota, he continued working with Esser Plumbing & Heating.

Orville's first marriage blessed him with four children. On June 23, 1970, he married the love of his life Roberta Happel, together they were blessed with two more children, making their home in Barnesville, Minnesota. 

Throughout his life, Buzz found joy in simple pleasures. He was an avid deer hunter and enjoyed collecting pens and belt buckles—interests that reflected his appreciation for both the outdoors and unique keepsakes.

Buzz is preceded into death by his wife Roberta; parents; siblings: Reuben Dow, Marcella Neumann, Ernest Dow, Clifford Dow, Lawrence Dow, and Rosemary Hatelstad. 

Buzz will be remembered by his children: Sandy (Larry) Cegla, Mike (Lisa) Dow, Sue (Mike) Hansen, Tom Dow, Robert (Sommer) Dow, and Neil (Janelle) Dow; Stepson Daryyl (Traci) DeVries;25 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren; sister: Eleanor Wagner; many nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

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