Don Lowe 1948–2025

Don was a Real Change vendor at Columbia City PCC for many years. A circle of friends and supporters grew up around him, and in 2019 Don was able to leave the parking spot under a bridge where he and his cat Norma lived in his van for many years.

When Don died May 11, 2025, the store requested a Leaf of Remembrance for him.

The photo above was taken in Don’s back yard, in a day shelter friends built for him.

Don’s friend Sue Hodes recounted her experience with Don during the trying times of the first campaign for a business tax to support low-income housing (the “head tax” in 2018): “I would pass by PCC on my way home and sit with Don and he would listen as I let out my exasperation and anger and he was always a good listener and commiserate. He would talk about life in his van with Norma, and trying to deal with neighbors who also camped there. I also met other interesting PCC shoppers who were friends with Don. He was always reading an interesting book. I am so glad he will be remembered next to Robert [Hansen] who before Don was a really social supportive Real Change vendor.”

Other comments about Don by friends:

“Don’s brilliance, kind heart and generous spirit will be missed but I feel very fortunate to have known him.”

“If he were here, he would be telling us about a great book he read or talking in detail about one of the many subjects he knew so much about.”

“He was a unique soul with generous spirit and sparkling wit.”

“I spent many hours in meaningful conversation with Don at “his” table outside PCC and miss those “post-graduate” seminars.”

Real Change Obituary for Don:  Remembering Don Lowe: A story of radiating compassion | Oct. 8-14, 2025 | Real Change

Don’s Leaf was placed at Columbia City PCC on August 29, 2025. If you have photos or memories to share, please post a comment.