Don was born in Sumas, Washington to Wendell and Gertrude Malmberg on June 23, 1925. In 1930, Don’s parents moved the family from Bellingham to Seattle after buying a grocery store and service station. He graduated from Highline High School in the Class of 1944. He was a veteran of WWII and served from 1944-1947 in the U.S. Navy on a weather ship out of Pearl Harbor. He graduated in 1949 from the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Business. Don was a lifelong supporter of the University of Washington athletics program.
He married his beloved wife, Irene Fay Swindler, on February 19, 1955, at McMicken Heights Baptist Church in SeaTac, Washington. Don and Irene were self-employed storekeepers and operated the Bow Lake Grocery on Pacific Highway and 188th St. He served on the city council of the newly formed city of SeaTac for a number of years. Don and Irene spent many happy years traveling the world and snowbirding in Surprise, Arizona. Don permanently relocated to Surprise, Arizona after the death of his wife, Irene.
Most importantly, Don lived life as an honorable man. He was honest, thoughtful, funny, loyal, patient and kind. He believed that business should be conducted fairly, and a handshake sealed the deal. He often said, "It doesn't cost anything extra to be nice."
Don is survived by his son, Wendell (Aimee), daughters Lynda (James Cazort) and Mary (Joe Yonek), grandchildren Brenda Malmberg, Christopher Lovell, Joshua Lovell (Laura), Danielle Malmberg (Travis Keppner), Heather Malmberg, Rachael Yonek, and Scott Yonek, and great-grandchildren, Jennifer Dressler, Levi and Emma Lovell, Jacob and Kaitlynn Riske, RebeccaAnne, Ariel and Oscar Keppner.
Our infinite gratitude goes out to caregivers Consuela, Sally, Charlene and Colleen. For the last two years, they have provided companionship, loving care, and laughter to Don and his family. Don was able to stay in his home until the end of his life because of their devotion.
Special thanks to neighbors Kyle, Rhonda and Rachel (for treats, sports, and good conversation); neighbor Carrie (for wonderful meals and so much laughter); neighbors Jerry and Evelyn (for great Navy stories, cookies, and quiet company); friend Dave Sousa (for friendship and loyalty); and family Bill and Dee Urbansky (for endless thoughtful gestures, airport rides and many meals).
In honor of his service to our country, military honors will be held at 1:30 pm on Thursday, March 30, 2023 at Tahoma National Cemetery,18600 SE 240th, Kent, WA. All are welcome to attend. Suggested attire includes Husky gear, Navy blue, or other dark colors. Please arrive no later than 1:15 pm at the Cortege Assembly area for procession to the Committal Shelter.
Memorials may be given to the University of Washington Husky athletic program or to Northwest Harvest.
Memorabilia from Bow Lake Grocery is on display at the Highline Heritage Museum in Burien, Washington.
DONATIONS
University of Washington Husky Athletic Program
Northwest HarvestPO BOX 12272, Seattle, Washington 98102
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