Donald Ried Davis

Don Davis -- preceded in life by his dear wife Darlene Honre Marie Davis, and his daughter Andrea Lynn Gascon. Also, he was preceded in death by his dalmatian Sadie, and his schnauzer Nora. He is survived by three sons and one daughter: Jon C. Davis, Robert J. Davis, Michael P. Davis, and Dawn Barer.

At 17, Don enlisted in the Air Force. He honorably served for four years, 1956-1960. During that time, he met his lovely soon-to-be wife, Darlene. They were married in 1959, in Havre, Montana.

After leaving the service, he attended Montana State University, where he earned his teaching degree in English.

With five children in tow, they were off. They moved to Port Angeles, WA for a one-year teaching gig, and then to Walla Walla.

Don began teaching at Mac-High in Milton-Freewater, Oregon, about 15 miles from Walla Walla. During his teaching career, he continued with his education and received his master's in English. He then became the head of the English department.

In 1980 the Walla Walla paper, the Union-Bulletin, posted a part-time sports writing opening; he jumped at the opportunity. He was hired and quickly became a full-time writer.

Don wrote an outdoor column, traveling the Northwest. He camped, hiked, fished, and met lots of great people. He always took a faithful dog, companion and sometimes his wife, Darlene.

He worked at the U-B until he retired in 2010. He continued writing for the U-B for three more years.

Don was a prolific writer and photographer. He was a wonderful father and loving husband. Don is greatly missed.

Services are open to the public and will be held at Herring Funeral Home on Alder St. on Nov. 7th at 1:00 PM with a reception to follow next door.