Clyne Wesley Wardlaw Jr.

Hot Rod Heaven gained a new driver on April 30th. Clyne was born in Grants Pass, Oregon, to Clyne Sr. and Elizabeth Wardlaw. He grew up in Jerome Prairie and graduated from Grants Pass High School in 1967. He married his high school sweetheart, Sally Stowell, in the summer of 1968. Clyne started his long career in carpentry and construction when he first joined the Carpenter’s Union of Hawaii in 1972. After returning to Oregon he worked on various construction projects, many of them included his co-worker Al Marcotte and his beloved father-in-law Tom Stowell. His career eventually led to logging and road building in Southeast Alaska with Tom Gillespie for several years. Clyne retired in 2003 and took an epic road trip across the country with Sally, which was one of the highlights of their summer travel and included a visit to their grandchild in South Carolina and a journey through Arkansas to experience the Wardlaw family history. In 2004, Clyne and Sally relocated to the community of Gateway near Madras, Oregon. Time in the canyon meant time working on one of his many beloved VW’s – some were completed and some were not. He was legendary for storytelling including being a witness to the Fosbury Flop and how to fish the Rogue River. Clyne’s life revolved around his kids and grandkids. Each of his children were raised to be strong and independent, based in part by driving a motorcycle without brakes at very young ages. He was a passionate coach to them and their children both on and off the field. Clyne made friends wherever he worked and lived. He worked hard; he played hard. He had many special relationships forged throughout the years. In addition to his lifelong friends, Clyne is survived by his wife Sally, his children Amy Zampardo (Tony), Megan Vibbert (Sean), and Clyne Wesley. “Pops” is also survived by his grandchildren Norah, Paige, Delaney, Noah, and Logan, in addition to two sisters, many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and oldest sister. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date this summer. In lieu of flowers, you may send any monetary donations to the Gateway Rangeland Fire Protection Association, 9108 NE Clemens Dr, Madras, OR 97741, or to an Animal Shelter of one’s choice.

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