Don-Paul Teshera, lovingly known as Donny, passed away at home on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, after a brave and awe-inspiring two-year journey with stage 4 metastatic melanoma. Diagnosed in February 2023, Donny beat the odds every day — his doctor said one in four would do well, and Donny walked in that 25% with determination, grit and grace. He truly was a miracle.
Donny’s life was defined by deep love, unwavering strength and an endless capacity for connection. For 30 years, he was a proud and active member of Alcoholics Anonymous. His commitment to recovery and the AA community shaped not just his life, but the lives of countless others who found hope in his story and comfort in his presence.
Donny’s greatest joy in life was his seven beloved grandchildren: Sawyer, Laken, Hadler, Lillian, Eleanor, Allison and Lacey. To them, and to every child he met, he was simply “Papa.”
He is survived by his soulmate and wife of 15 years, Amy—his partner in love, life and adventure. He leaves behind his beautiful daughters Kylie Sexsmith (Justin), Rainier and Maycen Teshera; and his cherished stepsons Jeff, Mike (Sadie) and Matt.
Donny also leaves behind his siblings Dan, Joe, Gary and Lisa, along with his adored nieces Samiel, Cydney, Courtney and Jaime, and treasured nephew Justin.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Eva, and his brothers Ray, Mike and Tony.
Donny’s light, laughter and love left a mark on everyone he met. As husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend, his loss leaves a space that can never be filled—but his memory will live on in the countless lives he touched, and we will forever look for him in every sunset.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Bethel Church, 132 Kirkland Rd., Chehalis Washington with a reception and refreshments to immediately follow.
