LOWELL: Arthur Geddes, age 84, a lifelong resident of South Lowell, passed away on Friday, February 20, 2009 at the D’Youville Senior Care Center.
He was the beloved husband of Barbara R. (Johnston) Geddes, with whom he would have celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary on June 21, 2009.
Born in Lowell on Febraury 2, 1925, he was the son of the late John Geddes and Eleanor R. (Panton) Geddes.
Arthur was raised in the Wigginville area of Lowell. He attended Lowell schools, graduated from Lowell High School in 1943 and later graduated from the former Lowell Comercial College.
Mr. Geddes served during the Korean War in the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Sea Poacher (SS-406). He was honorably discharged from active duty on April 8, 1952, having earned the rank of Quartermaster.
Following active duty, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force Reserve Flight Program and served for 25 years as a Loadmaster.
Prior to his retirement, Mr. Geddes was employed for over 40 years as a civilian contractor at the Hanscom Air Force Base in Bedford.
He was a lifelong member, former Sunday school teacher and past member of the Board of Trustees at the Lawrence Street Primitive Methodist Church of Lowell.
Arthur loved Big Band music and was an accomplished saxophone and clarinet musician for area big bands including the “Silvertones” of Tewksbury.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Nancy L. Batchelder and her husband David of Plano, TX, John R. Geddes of Pelham, NH, Edward A. Geddes of Pepperell, David T. Geddes of Litchfield, NH and Mark A. Geddes of Lowell; one brother, Stanley A. Geddes and his wife Rita of Tewksbury; seventeen grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews.
Mr. Geddes was the brother of the late Harry Geddes, who was killed in action during World War II.
Calling Hours Monday, Feb. 23rd, from 4-8 p.m., at the Farmer & Dee Funeral Home, 16 Lee St., Tewksbury. Funeral services Tuesday, Feb. 24th, at 10 a.m., at the Lawrence Street Primitive Methodist Church, 1199 Lawrence St., Lowell. Interment to follow at Lowell Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Lawrence Street Methodist Church, c/o Memorial Fund, 1199 Lawrence St., Lowell, MA 01852 are requested.