With great sadness, we announce the passing of our patriarch Donald Dillingham. Don passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 18, 2023, at 87, surrounded by family.
Don was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, on October 18, 1935. He was the eldest son of Donald R. and Ada Stoddart Dillingham, followed by his brothers Carl and Delbert.
Don attended West High (GO PANTHERS!), where he met his future wife, Carol Peterson. Don and Carol were married on January 22, 1955. Shortly after their wedding, Don began serving as a proud U.S. Marine. During their marriage, Don and Carol welcomed five children Scott, Camie, Ricky, Chuck, and Lisa.
Don and Carol parted ways after 21 years of marriage. Don relocated to New Mexico, where he met and married Patricia "Pat" McCauley. After Pat passed in 1994, Don returned to Utah and later reunited with Carol, remarrying on November 15, 1997.
Don started his truck driving career at Barton Freight Lines, followed by Whitfield, later Pacific Intermountain Express (P.I.E.). Don was a proud union member standing alongside and caring about the people he worked with. During his career, Don earned many recognition awards, including the "Two Million Mile Safe Driving" award from P.I.E. He never slowed down. Adding more miles, Don worked until age 85, finally retiring from O'Reilly Auto Parts.
Don was a true child of the silent generation embracing a "waste not, want not" attitude and a strong work ethic. He was bold, steadfast, patriotic, loyal, observant, and matter-of-fact. Don had one hell of a personality. He was charming and witty, often ending conversations with a wisecrack and a smile.
Don was an old cowboy at heart. Tough as a whipcord and a man of his word, he loved old western movies and John Wayne. He was a fan of vintage cars and racing. Don enjoyed working in the garage with family and friends. He was most proud of his '67 Mustang. Don was a true sports fan who wouldn't miss a NASCAR race, a Utah Jazz basketball game, or a BYU football game. He enjoyed hosting family gatherings in his meticulously maintained backyard. Above all, Don was a family man who loved dearly.
Don was preceded in death by his wife, Carol (Nana), children Scott, Camie, Ricky, and his parents.
Don is survived by his children Chuck (Lori) Dillingham and Lisa Watson. Grandchildren Melanie (Guy) Kidd, Jeff (Amber) Pehrson, Tawnya (Stephan) Black, Beau (Jenny) Lamper, Skye (Mandy) Hinkle, Travis (Jeff) Dillingham, Sheila (Will) Smith, and Brandi (Dan) Lamper, 17 great-grandchildren, and his brothers Carl (Donna) and Delbert (LaRae).
A special thanks to our family friend, Amy Singleton, for helping us care for Dad in his final days. We thank you for your compassion and kindness at such a difficult time. We were comforted by your support and are forever grateful.
A viewing will be held Wednesday, March 22, 2023 from 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm with a funeral service to follow at 3:00 pm. Services may be viewed through the link below:
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