Edward Eugene McKenzie was born in Ada, Oklahoma and grew up in Sapulpa, Oklahoma. After high school, he served in the Oklahoma National Guard, drove a beverage truck, and worked for Safeway Warehouse in Tulsa. He married his wife Karen in 1970 and in 1975 they moved to Oregon.
Ed ministered for 23 years in Oregon, pastoring for The Church of God of Prophecy in Glide, Prineville and North Salem. He directed summer youth camps at Silver Creek Falls and traveled in missions to Ukraine, China, and Russia. He was privileged to visit 15 countries around the world, with many more stops on his bucket list.
He was passionate about history and studying his family heritage in Tennessee. He often frequented classic car shows in the area. Ed enjoyed flying kites at the beach. He never tired of the beauty of Oregon or the local scenery. He also enjoyed sharing his historical home in Silverton with others. However, the thing Ed loved most was serving people.
For over 20 years Ed and Karen owned and operated the Natural Health Center in Silverton, Oregon. He managed the shop, which included greeting people, answering calls, ordering products, scheduling appointments, and keeping everything looking nice. Getting to know the people of Silverton and surrounding communities was his delight. He would talk with customers, offer encouraging words, biblical wisdom, and friendship whenever needed. Customers would return seeking Ed’s smile and advice. He was a compassionate, generous man and his loving and caring spirit made everyone feel they were important. Ed’s main goal was to love and serve God and to share that with others.
Edward is survived by his wife Karen of Silverton, daughter Tricia (Jason) Treadwell, granddaughters Grace and Faith Treadwell, and sister Gayla (Lyal) Shoff of Salem. Ed and Karen also had two special God-sent daughters that came later in life, Regina (Chad) Goins with grandchildren Danielle (Thiago), Aubrie, Nicole, Hosanna, Christianne of Brazil, Jesse (Irecia) and great-grandchildren Bear and Marley; Angela (Ken) Hatch and grandchildren Dustin and Cameron Hatch. He also was Grandpa to the Greg Ditman children.
His body was laid to rest on March 1 at Miller Cemetery on Highway 213 near Silverton. A memorial service was held on March 2 at Church on the Hill in Turner, Oregon. There will be a special time of remembrance at the Natural Health Center March 21, 6:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome to join in this time to honor his life and share memories.
