Donald G. Willard

They moved to Wenatchee where he went to school and worked in the orchards. He later attended and earned his Bachelors degree at the University of Washington. A proud Husky for life. He then spent some time in the National Guard.

One of his first jobs was selling food to the U of W where he met the love of his life Marlene. They wed in May in 1961.

A new job selling Pharmaceuticals took them and daughters Cindy & Kim to Great Falls Montana then back to the Shoreline area in Washington. There he began his life career as a Stock and Commodities broker for Shearson.

Later in Life Don pursued his passion for flying and acquired his pilots license. He and Marlene enjoyed flying his Cessna from Paine Field to a house they built next to the airport (landing strip) in Sequim.

Upon retiring in the early 90"s Don & Marlene decided they were ready for some winter warmth. The airplane and Sequim house were traded for a house on a golf course in Chandler Arizona. They spent the next 17 winters there enjoying golfing and friends.

Before moving back to Bothell full time to be closer to family, they spent 3 years in Spokane, WA to be with their daughter Cindy while she battled breast cancer.

In October 2024, they moved to Morningstar, a Senior Living Community in Kirkland, WA. In January of 2025, after 63 years of marriage, Marlene Passed away.

Don went on to make so many friends and acquaintances as he enjoyed Bingo, Jeopardy and socializing over meals. He so enjoyed the staff and residents that became his extended family. Don always brought joy and laughter to all he met.

Don was predeceased by his wife Marlene and his daughter Cindy,

He is survived by his daughter Kimberly Hepper (James), his son in law Tim Hepper, (Cindy), His sister-in-law Pam Flotton (John), his four grandsons Kyle Hepper (Marianne), Jim Hepper III (Sarah), Tyler Hepper (Erica), Chase Hepper (Adrianna), Ten great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at Morningstar Senior Living April 12th from 2pm - 4pm.