Donald Carl Wattenbarger

Donald C. Wattenbarger passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at his son’s home on September 12th, 2023. Don was born February 10th, 1937, in Yakima, Washington to Carl and Marie (Oberson) Wattenbarger. When he was ten years old his family moved to Portland, Oregon, where his brother, James “Jim” C. Wattenbarger was born.

Don met his wife, Carolyn (Haley) Wattenbarger on a public transit bus headed to Portland State University. They got married July 31,1959 and have been happily married for 64 years. Don and Carolyn have two children, Debra (Wattenbarger) Smolich-Thein of Brookings, OR and Thomas Wattenbarger of Beavercreek, OR; six grandchildren; and nine great grandchildren.

Don spent his life serving his family, community, and our country. Don joined the Portland Fire Bureau in 1961 and rose through the ranks to Captain before he retired in 1990. His brother, Jim, also served like his brother in the Fire Department. He loved his job and enjoyed being part of that organization. He also served in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1955-1963.

Don was a man of the outdoors who enjoyed working with his hands. Don built the home that he and Carolyn share, with the help of his fellow firefighters. He built his own camper, boats, and loved hunting and fishing. He was an avid rock collector, belonged to a flint knapping group, and built model airplanes, bows, and arrows.

He is survived by his wife, children and their family; brother and his family; many cousins; and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contribution in Don’s memory be made to Backpack Buddies c/o Oak Hills Presbyterian Church, 5101 SE Thiessen Road, Milwaukie, OR 97267.

A service to honor and remember Don will be 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 30, 2023, at Oak Hills Presbyterian Church.

Don is loved and will be very missed.