Donald Robins Wentworth

Donald Robins Wentworth, 96, of Gresham, part of the Greatest Generation and a War Hero, passed away Sunday, December 20, 2020. He was born May 27, 1924 to Nathan and Gladys (Robins) Wentworth in Middletown, Connecticut.

Don proudly served his country during World War II as a Pharmacist’s Mate (Hospital Corpsman) in the United States Navy. While attached to the Fourth Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force and the Fifth Amphibious Corps, U.S. Fleet Marine Force, he was among the first wave of troops landing on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, during that strategic invasion. Don was awarded a Commendation and Meritorious Advancement for displaying “a keen knowledge of his duties and a high degree of courage in administering aid to his wounded comrades in the face of intense enemy fire. His professional skill, superb initiative and zealous devotion to duty were instrumental in the saving of many lives and contributed materially to the efficient care and evacuation of casualties.” Don also received a Commendation for action during the invasion and capture of Saipan and Tinian, Marianas Islands, for “exposing himself to enemy fire while going to the assistance of his fellow comrades in arms who had been wounded.” Following his service in the Navy and Marine Corps, Don served in the 15th Medical Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division, United States Army, where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Meritorious Service including working long hours, often without food or rest, while the medical clearing station was heavily taxed with incoming casualties. Don completed his military service as a member of the Air Police, United States Air Force. He retired in 1975 following a combined 30 years of active duty and reserve military service. He was very proud of having served in all four branches of the United States Military. Don was also proud of his three sons, two of whom followed his path of service in the United States Navy and United States Marine Corps.

In 1951, Don married the late Marjorie Irene Hathaway; they later divorced. Following retirement from active military duty, Don worked in security for Oregon Health Sciences Center and as a self-taught Master Locksmith, working for Butterfield Locksmith in Gresham as well as for Reed College. Don enjoyed big band and jazz music, reading, fishing, antique automobiles and taking solo drives to the Shaniko Hotel for a banana split. He was quick with a joke and to lend a helping hand. He will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his family and friends.

Don is survived by his son Dean and wife Patricia of Gleneden Beach; son Robin of Oregon City; son Steven and wife Mary of Pennsylvania; granddaughter Stephanie of Pennsylvania and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his twin brother Warren D. Wentworth and sisters Valerie Wentworth Brown and Natalie Batchelder.

A public Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Internment at Forest Lawn Cemetery, Gresham. Arrangements by Bateman Carroll Funeral Home, Gresham.