Lewis Speer

Lewis "Buster" Speer, 78 years old, of Oroville, California. Graveside services will be held Saturday, December 19, 2009 at at 10:00 a.m. at Glen Oaks Memorial Park. Friday, December 18, 2009 from 5pm to 8pm, visitation will be held at Brusie Funeral Home. Buster passed away on December 16, 2009 in Oroville California. Buster was born on March 21, 1931 in Rhea, Oklahoma. He was one of 10 children born to Luke and Ruth Speer. Buster attended grade school and high school in Santa Cruz, CA. He attended Lassen Junior College and Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo where he majored in Agriculture and Livestock management. Buster enlisted in the US Army on March 29, 1949 just after his 18th birthday. He was wounded in action in the Korean War and recieved the Purple Heart. Buster married Joan Carol McKinley on August 5,1951 in Carson City, Nevada. Buster worked most of his life as a "Cowboy" and Ranch Manager. He spent many years working for the Hearst Ranch and Jack Ranch in California. He retired at 77 years old and continued to ride and train horses up until that time. Buster is known throughout California as a legendary "Cowboy". He was also known for his work in training outstanding quarter horses and working cow dogs. He was very proud of his children and loved them all very much. He was a great friend to many people from all walks of life. He is survived by his sons and daughters and their spouses, Flint Speer and his wife, Bonnie, Blaine Speer and his wife, Pam, Carol Speer-Smith and her husband, Steve, Karen Stoutenburgh and her husband, David, Gary Speer and his wife, Amanda, Linda Schille and her husband, Michael. He is also survived by his sisters, Irene Joyner and Leone Jones He is also survived by his eight grandchildren, Luke Speer, Jamie Speer, Leslie Pawlak, Kelly Speer, Isaac and Laurie Stoutenburgh, and Jennifer and Amelia Graf. Many nieces and nephews also survive him. His favorite dog, "Heart" and his horse "Princess" also survive him and will be kept and cared for by his children. He was loved by his family and friends and will be greatly missed by all. Memorial contributions can be made to Oroville Hospital where he received wonderful, compassionate care from all of the staff.