Donald James Spence Obituary (1939 - 2026)

Donald “Don” James Spence was born April 12, 1939, in Chewelah, Washington, to Ione Jones Spence and James Corden Spence. He grew up in Spokane and graduated from Rogers High School in 1958. That August, Don proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, serving aboard the USS Richard B. Anderson (DD-786) and traveling throughout the Pacific, including Japan, Hong Kong, and Okinawa. He was honorably discharged in 1960, carrying with him a lifelong sense of duty and many treasured stories. Don married Jean McCoy in 1961 and welcomed daughters Stephanie and Laurie Ann. His life later led him through work in forestry, logging, and construction across Washington and Idaho—careers that reflected his strength, resilience, and remarkable work ethic. In 1970, Don married the love of his life, Marilyn, blending their families and later welcoming their son, Randall, in 1972. Don built their first home on Naches Heights with his own hands, a testament to his craftsmanship and dedication. Throughout his life, Don faced both triumph and tragedy, including the heartbreaking loss of his daughter Laurie Ann in 1989. Still, his perseverance never wavered. He joined Oak Construction in 1992, building homes throughout the Yakima area. In 1996, Don and Marilyn built another family home in Yakima that became a place filled with laughter, grandkids, great grandchildren and parties in the park like setting in the backyard. He retired from Cub Crafters in 2017 after many rewarding years as a master carpenter. Don and Marilyn renewed their vows in 2000, celebrating 30 years of marriage. After Marilyn’s passing in September 2023, Don honored her memory by continuing to live life fully. At Avamere Assisted Living, he became president of the community, welcomed new residents, attended church, newspaper club, sang hymns, and joined every activity he could. To his surprise, in 2024 Don was crowned King of Hearts on Valentine’s Day and won Best Christmas Door. A devoted Seattle Seahawks fan, Don cherished nine years of watching games and cheering loudly alongside his daughter Debbie. On February 8, he joyfully heard his team become Super Bowl Champions once more. Surrounded by family, Don passed peacefully on February 9, 2026. Don is survived by his sister, Jane Dewey; brothers, Rob and Jim Spence; children, Stephanie Persinger, Randall Spence, Debbie Vander Houwen, Laurie Steward, and Tim and Zandi Vander Houwen; 11 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Irene Spence, daughter, Laurie Ann Spence, and grandson, Jason Vander Houwen. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to our Multicare Memorial Hospice team and the staff and residents of Avamere for the love, compassion, and friendship shown to Don—you truly became his family. A private celebration of life will be held this spring Shaw & Sons Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at shawandsons.com.