Don was born on April 30, 1933 in Spokane, WA to parents Wes and Laura Griffiths. He attended Lewis and Clark high school and Eastern Washington College of Education. Don earned a degree in education and spent the majority of his career as an Administrator in the Mead School District. He was also a Veteran, serving two years in the US Navy on the USS Robinson.
Don Married Inga in June of 1959. Together they had 4 children, Nancy Butz of Spokane, WA, David Griffiths of Spokane WA, Yvonne Van Ausdle of Boise, ID and Mark Griffiths of Spokane, WA.
Early in retirement Don worked seasonally at Riverfront Park refurbishing carousel horses which led to an interest in wood carving. Don completed 5 replicas of the outside horses of Spokane’s Looff Carrousel. One of his carvings, “Prince” won 1st place in a local carving contest.
Don enjoyed fishing, hiking, and most recently kayaking. With his passion for the outdoors Don found himself leading hikes and kayak trips for local sign-up groups in Spokane and the surrounding areas.
Don is survived by his wife Inga of Spokane WA his children, Nancy, David, Yvonne and Mark. Don was also blessed with 14 grandchildren, Nicole Geyer, Derek Butz, Trevor Butz, Blake Griffiths, Karissa Griffiths, Ashley Griffiths, Travis Griffiths, Molly Griffiths, Luke Griffiths, Brad Van Ausdle ,Renee Van Ausdle, Zach Van Ausdle, Kyle Griffiths, and Jake Griffiths with one great grandchild due May 2022. He will always be remembered as a devoted husband, father and grandfather.
The family would like to thank Deaconess Hospital’s Doctors and Nurses for all their care and support. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Shriners Hospital for Children. Professional services conducted by Hazen and Jaeger Valley Funeral Home. No public services will be held.
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