Donald Raymond Bishop

Donald “Donnie” Raymond Bishop, 72, of Tempe, Arizona, passed away on June 17th, 2023 after fighting against Pulmonary Fibrosis. Donnie managed his illness with strength and grace. He spent his final months surrounded by loved ones, especially his grandchildren, whom he adored more than anything else in the world.

Donald was born in Detroit, Michigan in September of 1950 to Ray and Lucille Touscany. He was the oldest of 3 boys; younger brothers Jimmy and David. Lucy later remarried, to the love of her life and the boys’ adoptive father, Henry “Hank” Bishop, and the family moved to the sunshine of Arizona. Don was in the first graduating class at McClintock High School in 1968. His high school prom date was Natalie Ledenbach, who became the spark that reignited his passion and love for life and family during his twilight years, when they met again 50 years later at their high school reunion, proving that if you try sometimes, you just might find that you get what you need. Donnie and former spouse, Karen, built a home and family in Mesa, AZ. Donnie worked a long career at Salt River Project, starting in the mailroom. He became a computer analyst and was a loyal employee for over 40 years, eventually retiring at 64 years old, proud to be responsible for many of the designs that kept the lights on in Phoenix for years. He spoke fondly of the many wonderful friends he met in school and at work. For hobbies, Donnie enjoyed computers and music, marveling at these systems that were wonderful creations of both art and logic. Rush and the Rolling Stones will bring back fond memories for those who knew him. More than anything, he loved playing guitar with his son, Ryan, and spending movie nights with his family.

Donald is survived by his son, Ryan Bishop, and wife, Julianna, as well as his daughter, Kristen Papa, and husband Anthony. “Papa” is also survived by his five grandchildren, Melody, Rhythm, Harmony, Lyric, and Alexander.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mariposagardens.com for the Bishop family.

A memorial service for Donnie will be held Friday, August 25, 2023 from10:00AM to 11:00AM at Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park and Funeral Care, 6747 E Broadway Road, Mesa, AZ 85206.