In Memoriam

Share this...

In Memoriam 1
James Plowman

James Dale Plowman, 78, West Plains, Missouri, passed away recently at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri.

He was born November 10, 1944, at Bethany, Missouri, to Dale Cummings Plowman and Pearl Nadine Morris Plowman. On June 28, 1971, he was married at Cameron, Missouri, to Elaine Frazee. Mr. Plowman was a veteran, having served with the United States Marines. He was the owner of Mid-West Walnut and Stoney Creek Ranch.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine Plowman, of the family home and one brother, Vic Plowman, Council Bluff, Iowa.

His parents and one sister, Toni, preceded him in death.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity. Robertson-Drago Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

In Memoriam 2
Roy Reif

Born on July 25, 1959, Roy Andrew Martin Reif was not only a stalwart of the hardwood industry, but also a man of many passions. His love for music, hockey and the Boston Bruins, travel and attending the National Hardwood Lumber Association, Indiana Hardwood Lumbermen’s Association and the Lake States Lumber Association meetings regularly, was only rivaled by the joy he derived from spending quality time with cherished ones.

Roy’s professional journey spanned multiple esteemed establishments within the Hardwood realm. Beginning at Eves Lumber in Newmarket, Ontario, his expertise took him to Cadillac Lumber in Maple, followed by time at Tembec Lumber, in Ontario.

Spending a large duration of his career at Quality Hardwood and then concluding his professional chapter at Resources Lumber, Roy was a self-proclaimed “sales guy and hardwood guy.” This industry meant more to him than anyone could ever know.

Beyond his undeniable prowess in the field, Roy was a beacon of integrity, intelligence, discreetness and kindness. He was the epitome of honesty, his generosity knew no bounds. Roy always prioritized others, believed in giving abundantly and sought nothing in return.

Even in his arduous battle with cancer, Roy’s indomitable spirit shone through. Until his last moments on August 11, 2023, he endeavored to contribute to his work from home, demonstrating unmatched dedication and resilience.

Roy was the glue of his family; dependable, helpful and wise. From his mother, siblings, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, he was never too busy for anyone and stood as a constant pillar of support, guidance and unwavering love.

As we remember Roy, we celebrate a life lived fully, a legacy carved in hardwood and etched in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but his memories will remain, reminding us to be generous, honest and to cherish every moment.

By Miller Wood Trade Publications

The premier online information source for the forest products industry since 1927.

Share This
Related Articles
Import/Export Wood Purchasing News
Miller Wood Trade Publications

Lake States Business Trends

Lake States Business Trends Wintertime Woes Coupled With Springtime Expectations Hardwood markets across the Lake States remain steady but restrained, with suppliers describing seasonal softness,

Read More »
Import/Export Wood Purchasing News
Miller Wood Trade Publications

Northeast Business Trends

Northeast Business Trends A New Year With Old Challenges Northeastern hardwood lumber representatives reported that tariffs, high inventory, low demand and labor struggles are causing

Read More »
Import/Export Wood Purchasing News
Miller Wood Trade Publications

Southeast Business Trends

Southeast Business Trends Will Hopes Or Fears For 2026 Be Fulfilled? Lumber sources share concerns about the younger generation’s lack of interest in the lumber

Read More »
Import/Export Wood Purchasing News
Miller Wood Trade Publications

Full Steam Ahead Into The New Year

Full Steam Ahead Into The New Year After an unpredictable 2025 wrought with trade wars, shifting tariffs, inflation, bankruptcy, losing employees and shaky supply chains,

Read More »
Import/Export Wood Purchasing News
Miller Wood Trade Publications

West Coast Business Trends

West Coast Business Trends West Coast Commitment Issues Hardwood market activity in the West Coast remains cautious, with suppliers in Washington and California reporting tepid

Read More »
Import/Export Wood Purchasing News
Ashley Amidon

What Will 2026 Bring For Trade?

What Will 2026 Bring For Trade? Ashley A. Amidon, CAEExecutive DirectorInternational WoodProducts Association 2025 was quite the tumultuous year for any business involved in international

Read More »