DARWIN "BUZ" JAMES MOE

October 19, 2024 at the age of 74, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, love, and dedication. Born in Burbank, California, he was a man who embraced life fully, moving to Pearblossom at the age of 7 and making it his home. He was more than just a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother—he was the heart of his family, a friend to many, and a man who never shied away from rolling up his sleeves.

He is survived by his loving wife Sharlote Moe, his partner in life and adventures; his daughter Ricque Santellano and her husband John, and his son Jason Moe and his wife Amy, who carry on his passion for hard work and ingenuity; his sisters, Sandra Robinson, Carol Fagan and her husband Pat , Pam Howell and her husband Tony, and Debra Dickinson, as well as his brothers Jerry Moe and Ed Moe and his wife Chris, who shared in countless memories. His legacy continues through his nine grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and the many cousins, nieces, and nephews who will forever cherish his guidance and love.

Preceded in death by his parents, Darwin and Louise Moe, his brother Richard Moe, his mother-in-law Shirlee Swaski, father-in-law James Foust, sister-in-law Cindy Vasquez, and brother-in-law Russell Foust, Buz is reunited with those he loved so deeply in this life.

Buz was a proud Native American, registered on the Umatilla Reservation in Oregon and a descendant of the legendary Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce Tribe. His heritage was a profound source of pride, grounding him in the strength and resilience of his ancestors.

Buz was also a dedicated Vietnam veteran, who served his country with honor from 1971 to 1972. He held the American flag close to his heart and displayed it proudly wherever he could, a symbol of his love for the land he cherished.

For over 35 years, he was the heart and soul of Buz Moe Trucking, working as an owner-operator. His commitment to his work was a testament to his strength and determination.

A true craftsman and a man with grease on his hands and passion in his heart, Buz spent countless hours in the garage alongside his son, Jason. Whether it was keeping his Kenworth on the road, restoring classic Chevys, or building dune buggies from the ground up, he thrived in creating, fixing, and perfecting. He wasn't just a car guy—he was a magician of engines and a master of anything mechanical. And at the end of the day, it was always Buz, Sharlote, Ricque, and Jason hanging out in the garage. 

Car shows, off-roading, and a life spent with family and friends were the things that fueled his soul. He had a unique sense of time, setting his alarm for 4:27 a.m. or 4:54 a.m.—to reflect engine sizes, just like the cars he loved to work on.

A true gearhead to the core, Buz lived life on his own terms, leaving behind an enduring mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. His presence will be profoundly missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and the sound of a well-tuned engine will never fade.