Donald John Pomeroy

Born in the Mount Eldin Ranger Station outside of Flagstaff, Donald John Pomeroy was proud of his heritage as a native Arizonian. Among his ancestors he could count the first non-native serrlers of the Mogollon Rim, members of the Arizona Territorial Legislature, and the founders of Mesa. A true westerner, Don spent his childhood riding and roping. As a young man he was employed by the US Forest Service, and worked as a cowboy in both Arizona and Southern New Mexico.

In his late teens Don enlisted in the Navy, and ended up helping to capture Japanese soldiers who had escaped during World War II and were hiding in the remote island areas of the South Pacific. While in the Navy Don also worked as a bank teller on Guam.

Returning to the US, Don attended the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, where he played football, pledged his loyalty to the Sigma Chi Fraternity, and was an active member of the UNM rodeo team. Don was a talented bull and bareback bronc rider, and during his time as a rodeo contestant he got to know and became friends with some of America's most famous and important rodeo cowboys. An accident whle bull riding ended his rodeo career, so Don enlisted in the Army. It was while stationed at the army base in Fort Monmouth New Jersey that Don met and married his wife of 60 years, Beverley Joan (Roberts). During his 20 years in the Army, Don achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, serving in the Philippine Islands, Ethiopia, Turkey, Iran, Spain, Germany, Great Britain and the United States. Don worked in intelligence, and for a time acted as the head of communications for the European Division of Airborne Command Post.

After retiring from the Army, Don wanted a change of pace, so he bought acreage and raised cattle. During that time he also worked as an antique dealer, and occasionally even sold real estate.

Retired, Don spent his last years living in Phoenix, and then in Prescott Valley. Don had many hobbies and interests. He was an avid reader, particularly liking nonfiction, especially anything related to military or Arizona history. Don had a passion for sports, continuing to play golf into his 80s, and never missing a Phoenix Sun's game. Don collected European antiques, and appreciated many different types of art and music. Don's favorite food was Mexican, and he could speak some Spanish.

Don is survived by his wife Beverley, his four children, Chris ( Spouse Becky), Tracy-Leigh, Jeff and Tim, his Granddaughter Honor, and his Sister Beverly Salveson.

His family will continue to honor his spirit and cherish the memories. As his family, we are eternally grateful to him for his love, protection, guidance and support.

Godspeed Papi...