Ves Fitzhugh, 77, of Oregon City, Oregon passed away peacefully on January 10, 2026, after a brave battle with Glioblastoma.
Born on May 23, 1948, in Portland, Oregon. Ves lived a full and purposeful life rooted in discipline, a devotion to work and the Union, and later in life; a steadfast belief in Jesus.
A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Ves served his country from 1967 to 1971. His time in the military instilled in him a deep sense of discipline, commitment and order that would carry through every aspect of his life.
In 1973, Ves began what would become an extraordinary career as a truck driver with United Grocers (later Unified Grocers). For nearly 47 years he dedicated himself to the road and the company, he served with loyalty and pride. His work ethic was unmatched; if something needed fixing or figuring out, Ves was the one people turned to. As those who knew him often said: "If he couldn't fix it, nobody could."
Ves shared 44 loving years of marriage with his beloved wife, Sondra Fitzhugh.. He was a devoted husband and friend to his wife. Setting an example of how a man should be in marriage.
They were connected at the hip. She was his "Beautiful".
Together they built a life filled with love and resilience. They exemplified a strong partnership, raising their blended family, which included his children, Melissa, Marcie, And Michael, as well as Sondra's children, Robby and Dana.
He cherished his relationships with his sister Ginger Wilson and his brother Clinton Fitzhugh. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Alisha, Matt, Allie, Robert, Emmett, Adelynn and Ava; nieces and nephew; Shannon, Teresa and Shane, a few great-grandchildren and great- nieces and great nephews; who will remember him for his strength and unwavering presence.
Throughout his life, Ves found joy in staying active and engaged. In his early years, he raised homing pigeons—a hobby that reflected both patience and precision. He had a passion for HAM radio and CB communication that connected him to others across distances.
Later in life, he discovered a love for golf and spent many happy days on the green.
Traveling and camping brought him peace and adventure; he relished time spent outdoors exploring new places with those close to him. Especially Boardman Oregon, spot 15.
Ves was known for doing things his own way- always deliberate in how he approached life's challenges. He cared deeply about what he believed in and stood firm in those convictions. Later in life his faith was central to who he was; he held strong to Jesus.
May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him and serve as a lasting reminder of a life well lived - with purpose, integrity, and heart.
A Celebration of Life will be held on January 31, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church 9800 SE 92nd Ave, Happy Valley, Oregon 97086
Flowers can be ordered through Jessica Bickford at 503-523-7088 or Candles by Jessie
https://www.facebook.com/share/17NtVUJKvH/?mibextid=wwXIfr
If you would like to make a donation in Ves' name please go to
https://kimshope.org/donate/
Or
Send directly to:
Kim's Hope
PO Box 1558
Sisters, OR 97759