Peacefully Don slipped into the night with a wink and a slow soothing breath. Don arrived at last on Lopez from the hospital for the last week of his life, with a sweet smile, just in time to say adieu. Don loved his home that he shared with his husband, Timothy Maxson. Don was enthusiastic about his love for the San Juan Islands and especially Lopez. The sea was such a big part of his life: boating, crabbing and the fresh sea air.

While working in Seattle for Weyerhaeuser Company, his initial taste for the San Juans was his house of 15 years on Shaw Island. Don retired from Weyerhaeuser in 1992 and Don and Timothy started building a house on Humphrey Head. They eventually moved on and settled into their present home of 19 years on Upright Head. Don was a man poised for new adventures and projects always in the wings. His charm, grace and joie de vivre touched many Lopezians, and his love for the Lopez community was evident in his drive and commitment to build what is now the The Lopez Center for Community and the Arts. He also served as a board member for the Lopez Island Tennis Association and the Family Resource Center. Ten years ago Don and Timothy cultivated a new island community in New Zealand, Waiheke Island. This winter home had a special place in Don’s heart. We will all miss a wonderful man who touched lives in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

Born in Piedmont California, Don attended Acalanes High School, served in the U.S. Navy at Mare Island, and attended U.C. Berkeley earning a bachelor’s degree. He attended the University of Washington Business School and then worked for Wells Fargo International Banking Division. He was lured to the Pacific Northwest by Weyerhaeuser Company where he was employed for 25 years. Contributions in Don’s memory may be made to a Lopez Island nonprofit of your choice. A Celebration of Life will be held May 6th at their home. Arrangements are in the care of Evans Funeral Chapel &Crematory, Inc. To share a memory of Don, please sign the online guest register at www.evanschapel.com