Don’s father died when Don was only 13 and he was raised by his mother.
Following graduation from Yakima Senior High School and attending Yakima Valley Community College, Don attended the University of Washington, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Business and Advertising in 1953. He was a member of Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity.
He enrolled in the Navy ROTC program and was a commissioned officer, serving on the naval destroyer The Rochester, where he was gunnery officer. As a young Naval Lieutenant he had assignments in the Philippines where he was a civil affairs liaison officer working with local communities. After serving four years in the Navy, Don joined PS Printers as an offset pressman for 17 years.
Don was an avid bird hunter and fisherman. Some of his favorite times were hunting pheasants and ducks, or fishing the Yakima or Naches River with his cousin Bobbie Doescher Trembly. He was a master cabinet maker. Every detail of Don’s projects had square corners and finely polished finishes.
Don had many good years with his long-time companion JoAnne BoSanco, who predeceased him in 2017. He enjoyed many adventures and meals with Vern Peterson, his high school friend of over 73 years. It is rumored they had over 30 years of weekly lunches and around 11 years of trips to their favorite barber shop in Zillah. They shared many trips to Don’s cabin and skiing adventures.
Don was quick with a smile and had kind words for all who knew him. Yes, that smile was contagious.
He was proof positive that regular car maintenance would extend the life of the family automobile for many years. He enjoyed older cars including a 1953 Mercury and a Ford Model A, which he restored.
Don is survived by cousins Elizabeth Wade of Naches; William McGriff of McKenzie Bridge, Oregon; Mark McGriff of Sequim, WA; Jon Doescher of Vancouver, WA; Janice Vlahos of Portland, Oregon; and Terry Trembly of Seattle.
A thank you to Michelle Perales, the fine staff, caregivers and wonderful residents at Fieldstone Assisted Living, the place Don called home the past year. You guys are great!
A private graveside service with family is planed.
Arrangements by Keith & Keith Funeral Home.
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