Donald "Don" Bean was born in Weiser, ID on January 5, 1923 to Lottie and Thomas Bean. Don grew up in Weiser, attending grade and High school where he graduated in 1941. In the fall of 1941 he attended the University of Idaho, Moscow, ID. It was there he met the love of his life, Marjorie I. Ross of Portland, OR. On November 5, 1942 he enlisted in the Army Air Corps as an Aviation Cadet and on November 25, 1942 married Marjorie. Graduating from the cadet program in April 15, 1944 he was sent to India where he flew supplies over the Himalayas to China. For his service in India he was awarded two Distinguished Flying Crosses and two Air Medals. Completing his tour of duty he returned to the states, transferred to the Army Air Corps reserve and enrolled at the University of Washington with his wife Marjorie. Upon their graduation in 1947 they moved to Portland, where he went to work, for the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad and the New York Central Railroad. In 1951, during the Korean War, he was recalled to active duty with the U.S. Air Force. Released from active duty in the fall 1952 he returned to Portland, and the New York Central Railroad. In 1962 he went to work for North Pacific Lumber Co. as an assistant freight traffic manager. Subsequently he was promoted to freight traffic manager where he retired in 1985. He also retired from the Air Force in 1983 as a Lieutenant Colonel.
Preceded in death by his wife of 72 years Marjorie; and son Gary.
Survivors include, son Robert; four grandchildren; and seven great grandchildren.
A visitation for Donald will be held Sunday, November 18th from 12pm to 2pm at Ross Hollywood Chapel, 4733 NE Thompson St, Portland. There will be a committal service at Willamette National Cemetery on Monday, November 19th at 9:30am with military honors.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations made in Don's memory to Savage Memorial Presbyterian Church.
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