Donald Dean Van De Venter

Don served in the Navy from 1964-1968 and then served on the Yakima police force for 22 years. Don was very proud to have been able to serve his country and also the city of Yakima.

Don lived a simple life after retirement. He often would sit in his backyard and feed the birds, ducks, stray cats and raccoons. He once told me he even had a mouse that was friendly with him that he would feed! Don’s biggest joy came from fishing. He would catch and release because Don didn’t like to eat fish but if he saw someone he thought was fishing for food he would donate his fish to his fellow fisherman! Don also liked to take his nephew or anyone one else who wanted to join him for a day of fishing at the pond.

Don didn’t have a lot but money and material things were not important to him. What he valued most was his family and friends. He loved them fiercely and was always willing to lend a helping hand when he could. Don was a good man, loved by many and will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Don is survived by his brother Dennis (Lorraine) Van De Venter, sister Mari Lynne (Jim) Hagel, sister in-law Kathy Van De Venter and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Don was preceded in death by his parents Marvin Dean and Wanda Van De Venter and his brother Darrell Van De Venter.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Keith & Keith Funeral Home, 902 West Yakima Ave, Yakima, WA 98902, US, on May 29, 2026, at 3:00 pm.