Donald "Don" J. Schmitt

Don grew up in Yakima and attended St. Joseph’s grade school and Marquette High School, graduating in 1943.

After graduation, Don joined the Army Air Corps and served in World War II as a B-17 ball turret-gunner. He completed and survived 25 missions including 3 emergency landings. The crew shared lifetime friendships.

Returning to Yakima, Don graduated Yakima Valley College while also playing football and basketball, and he was a tenor in the men’s quartet. He also graduated from Gonzaga University with his master’s degree in education.

In 1949, Don married the love of his life, Donna Mae Huntington. They moved to Spokane while Don finished his master’s degree in teaching at Gonzaga University. As a young teacher Don’s first job was in a one-room school house in the Pasco area.

Later Don taught and coached at many schools in the valley including McClure Elementary, Washington Junior High, Davis High School and Mt. Adams in Toppenish until his retirement of 25 years.

Don and Donna enjoyed many lifelong friendships. They also, participated in a potluck dinner group which involved friends that lasted over 50 years together until the end of their lives.

His gifts in life included being a great conversationalist and having a wonderful memory until the time of his death. Although he suffered with macular degeneration he recognized voices when running into former students. Don never met a stranger. He would always remember something personal about them. He was always positive in nature and proud of his Catholic faith. Faith, family, and friends were the basis of his life. Being a loving, supportive son, husband, father and friend he was a blessing and inspiration to many. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

As a teacher Don was heavily involved with various sports from swimming to football. He especially enjoyed watching Gonzaga basketball and Notre Dame football games.

Don enjoyed music as it was his meditation. He enjoyed playing his ukulele and guitar for all of his children and grandchildren.

Don is survived by 7 of his 8 children: Marc Schmitt, Patti (Steve) Alegria, Don (Polli), Schmitt, Joe Schmitt, Theresa (Dennis) Hoff, Ginnie (Dave) Alegria, and Wayne Schmitt. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great granddaughter.

Don was preceded in death by his loving wife, Donna, in 2011. While celebrating their 50th Anniversary his grandson asked what is the secret to marriage. Don stated the secret was LOVE and RESPECT.

Also preceding him in death was his oldest daughter, Mary Schmitt, in 2016.

On his 90th birthday the family shared sweet memories while he laughed and cried. From teaching to fishing to growing up, it was a walk down memory lane.

A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Gabriel Lascar and staff at Cornerstone Medical. A very special thank you to his warm family at Englewood Heights for the past 15 years. Thank you Heartlinks Hospice and especially to nurse Stan.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Thursday, October 5, 2017 at Langevin El Paraiso Funeral Home with a Rosary beginning at 5:00 pm. A Catholic Mass will be held at 10:00 am, Friday, October 6, 2017 at St. Paul Cathedral with burial following at Calvary Cemetery.

To share a memory of Don visit www.lepfuneralhome.com.