Donald Ray Close

Born on November 13, 1947 to Esther & David Close in Everett, WA, he leaves behind his loving wife of 38 years, Susie; their three children Charlie (Tamra), Bonnie and Jeremy (Barbara), 7 grandchildren and his first great-grandchild is due in November. He is also survived by sisters Kathleen (Mac), Susan (Jim), Judi, Carol and brothers Stan (Wendy), Tom (Cathy) and numerous nieces & nephews. He also leaves behind his beloved dogs Wrangler and Dilyn Rose.

Don graduated from Everett High in 1967 and he was drafted into service in October of the same year. He served in Vietnam from 68-69 and he was honorably discharged in 1973 and was awarded the Bronze Star for heroic achievement. Upon returning home, he worked at Scott Paper Company, before starting a career in the cable industry. He retired after 30 years with Viacom Cable Company.

Donald loved listening to Elvis & watching John Wayne, and he loved the 4th of July and Christmas. He was always the first in the neighborhood to have HIS Christmas tree up and as the family patriarch, he loved making the family breakfast every Christmas morning & doing the traditional Christmas morning latte run for the neighbors. One of his favorite past times was chopping wood for family & friends, and was as generous as they come. Don had a love for his family like no other and is considered a hero to his family, friends and all who truly knew him. Don loved going to the family cabin in Plain where he would ride his quad, drink beer at the bon fire and spend time with family & close friends. He was a grandmaster chess player; but only let the kids and grandkids beat him once or twice. Fish and chips down on the Mukilteo waterfront were a favorite lunch for Don & Susie, so were cheeseburgers at King Charlie's. Some of Don's favorite food at home were meat and potato pie, tater tot casserole, and licorice ice cream.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings, sisters Betty Lou and JoAnn & brothers Kenneth and Jim. A celebration of life will be announced and held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Everett Animal Shelter or Okan Dogs in Okanogan.

Donald will be missed every minute of every day.