Donald Joseph Heitstuman, 86, born March 19, 1932, passed away June 18, 2018, in Portland, Ore. He was born in Johnson, Wash., to Sylvester Laurence and Anna Margaret (Grassel) Heitstuman.
Don is survived by his beautiful bride, Joan "Jody" Lohr Heitstuman; sister, Angeline Bauer; daughter, Ruami Dyck; son, Michel Heitstuman; daughter, Lori Nichols; son, Kelly Heitstuman; grandsons, Nicholas and Jacob Heitstuman.
Don graduated from Colton High School in 1950, and in 1952, enlisted in the United States Army. He was stationed at Iwakini Army Base in Japan and received a National Defense Service Medal for his war time service. Don met and fell in love with his life-long friend and soulmate, Jody Lohr. He married Jody Sept. 8, 1956, and they celebrated 61 years of marriage. Don worked and retired from the Iron Workers Union Local #14. Upon retirement, he and Jody bought a small farm in Rochester, Wash. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, mentor and friend. There is not anyone he would not help in time of need. Don's lifelong ambition, dedication to the Catholic Church, family, country, and hard work is a testament to all of us. He will be greatly missed. We love you, dad.
Services are scheduled for Tuesday, June 26, 2018, viewing at 10:30 a.m., mass at 11:30 a.m., with reception to follow at St. Columban Catholic Church, 506 1st St. S, Yelm, Washington, officiated by Fr. Dean.
The Fatima Center: A Catholic charity promoting peace around the world, www.fatima.org.
Rice bowl: A faith-based organization providing 100% of the food for 58 orphanages in 9 countries, www.ricebowls.org.
Homes For Our Troops: To build and donate specially adapted custom homes nationwide for our severely injured Veterans helping them rebuild their lives, www.hfotusa.org.
