Obituary of Donald Alden Strickler

Donald Alden Strickler Donald Alden Strickler, 67, passed away March 10, 2011, at St Peter Hospital, Olympia, following prolonged cardiac disease. His last day was spent surrounded by family and friends. Don was born in Lackawanna, New York on July 11, 1943. He moved to Olympia in 1969, and never looked back at the cold and snow he detested so much. Don loved his adopted home in Washington State and only complained about the rain in his last few years when it interfered with riding his motorcycle. Don will be remembered for being gentle, patient and compassionate, as well as having a wonderful sense of humor. He had a strong faith in God, and was a man of true conviction and loyalty. A better husband, father, brother and friend could not be found. Don had the tools to repair or assemble anything and was always willing to loan them out or help a friend or neighbor fix, build, remodel or move anything of any size. Don had a passion for family, visiting with friends over a cup of coffee, Royal Enfield motorcycles, Mustangs, photography, donuts and Basset Hounds. His favorite activity was riding in the Olympia Toy Run. John Alden and Priscilla Mullins of the Mayflower were Don’s eighth great-grandparents on his father’s side. He was proud of this heritage as well as his mother’s Scottish heritage. Don worked in sales at Sears and the Bon Marche for many years. He later worked at AMT Automotive and Puget Sound Healthcare. He took a medical retirement in 2001 due to his heart disease, which he fought bravely from the age of 39. After retiring Don continued to work part- time at the Salvation Army and did small handyman jobs for friends and neighbors. Don is survived by Mary Ann, his wife of 17 years; daughters Deb MacLean (Andy) of Fairfax, VA, Janice Shaver (Ed) of Hamburg, NY, and Veronica Lannom (Doug) of Bonney Lake, WA; sisters Sue Bonafede (Jerry) of Blasdell, NY and Lynn George (John) of Rochester, NY; and step-brother Jim Milliron (Marge) of West Seneca, NY. He is also survived by five grandchildren: Casey, Jake, Jenna, Emily and Averie, and numerous nieces and nephews. Don was preceded in death by brother Glenn Strickler of Angola, NY, and parents Robert R. and Janet A. Strickler of Buffalo, NY. Don’s family wishes to thank Group Health, Ruth Dills, RN, St. Peter Hospital and Providence Hospice for the excellent care and support he received for many years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salvation Army - Olympia Corps or the Providence St. Peter Foundation. To leave memories of Don or condolences for the family, please click on “View Guestbook” below.