Alfred Melvin ‘Bud’ Foss Jr.

Bud Foss, 77, Hot Springs, Ark., died at home on Oct. 28, 2009, after a lengthy illness.

The son of Alfred Melvin and Minnie (Jacobson) Foss was born on Sept. 26, 1932, in Minot, N.D. He grew up in Minot, graduated from Minot High School and attended Augsburg College in Minneapolis, Minn., as well as Bradley University in Peoria, Ill., where he completed watchmaker's school. Bud also served his country in the U.S. Army. Bud worked with his parents and later bought A.M. Foss Jewelers in downtown Minot. He continued his jewelry education at national seminars and he was an important table member at Charlie's Restaurant in downtown Minot.

Bud enjoyed many weekends boating, water-skiing with his children and friends on the Lake Metigoshe near Bottineau, N.D. On Aug. 4, 1979, he married Vi (Violet) Andrews at the lake and she joined him at A.M. Foss Jewelers.

Bud wanted to find a retirement home on the lake that didn't freeze in the winter and he found his spot on Lake Hamilton in Hot Springs, Ark. He commuted for years, on every available back road, between Hot Springs and Minot while continuing to manage the jewelry store.

In 1994, he fully retired to enjoy boating, friends, and gardens in Hot Springs. He enjoyed his memberships in the Elks, American Legion and Eagles. Bud was one hundred percent Norwegian and had a great sense of humor.

Bud's family includes: his loving wife, Vi, six children: Barb Lunn (Jeff), Mike (Susan), David (Lisa), Greg Andrews (Judy), Jim Andrews (Sheila) and Cara Usry; 11 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Bud is also survived by three nieces and numerous other relatives.

Bud was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Meredith.

The family would like to thank the staff of St. Joseph's 4th floor Oncology as well as Dr. Fred Divers and staff. Thank you Dr. Divers for your compassion and great friendship. The "Stubborn Norwegian" thought the world of you.

Memorials: Memorial Gifts may be directed to the charity of the donor's choice.

Memorial service: Will be held Saturday, Oct. 31, 2009, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Caruth-Hale Funeral Home, Hot Springs.

Guests may register at (www.caruth-hale.com).