Rachel Kathryn Donaldson

A loving wife, mom, grandmother and sister went to join her many loved ones who are waiting with open arms to greet her in heaven.

Rachel was born in Big Bend, Oregon in 1924 and raised southern Idaho. Most of her early years were spent with her 4 siblings living on their various farms. After graduating high school Rachel and good friend Virginia Hopkins rode from Caldwell, Id to LA, Ca. in a “rumble seat” seeking work. Their efforts paid off when they went to work their for Northamerican Air, helping with the war effort. She returned to WA to marry her high school sweetheart Joe Donaldson and start their life together. After 8 years in southern WA and 3 children later they relocated to Phoenix and proceded to have 4 more children.

Rachel was a force to be reckoned with - whether it was defending one of her 7 kids or hunting for one of those 7 kids or husband, she couldn’t be beat. They say she probably wrote the early “Rules of engagement” for most of our detective shows today. Believe me we all tried and lost! Practical jokes and fun were abounding always!

Rachel went on to become a successful realtor here in the valley.

She leaves behind 7 very grateful children, Fred Donaldson, Dave Donaldson, Carol Mulholland, Rachel Glass, Tom Donaldson, and Linda Giacoppo. 13 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Saddened in our loss, but enriched in the love that was always felt.