Donald Edwin Weisgerber passed away peacefully surrounded by family and his faithful dog, Millie on Oct. 20, 2025 at his home in Pendleton at the age of 85.
He was born on Sept. 20, 1940 in Portland to John and Marion Weisgerber.
He grew up in Juneau, Alaska, where his love of hunting and fishing blossomed during his early years. After graduating from high school in 1958, he attended Oregon State University and became a ROTC cadet. He earned a Bachelor of Science in General Science in 1963.
The same year, he joined the United States Navy, embarking on a distinguished career. His service included MPA/DCA on USS Newell from June 1963 to June 1965; engineering officer on ASS Falgout from July 1965 to July 1966; attended destroyer school from 1966 to April 1967; served as engineering officer on USS Frank E. Evans from April 1967 to November 1968; XO/navigator on USS Bauer from December 1968 to February 1972; staff administrator for Joint Chiefs of Staff, Washington, D.C. from March 1972 to January 1974; served as DCA on USS Saratoga from February 1974 to May 1976; A/V coordinator for FAV CINCLANTFL from May 1976 to July 1980; and officer in charge for NAVAMINU Scotia from July 1980 to June 1983. He was deployed ashore and on ship during the Vietnam War. In 1983, Don retired with the ranking of lieutenant commander.
In 1964, he married Sally Bailey. They had two sons, David and John, and lived on multiple bases on the West and East coasts. In 1983, he married Wanda Paszul. In 1985 they settled in Tumalo, where he made many lifelong friends. He was a dedicated volunteer, supporting hospice, cancer society, and CASA. In 2017, he married Linda Robinson and in September 2024, they moved to Pendleton, where he continued to enjoy life and family.
A passionate fisherman, he bought a boat and enjoyed fishing as often as possible. He was also a lover of music, an avid player of video slots, a master of Left, Right, Center, and a skilled Scattergories player.
Donald is survived by his wife, Linda; his two sons, David (Anegla) and John (Rebecca); two step-children, Lori (Scott) and Lance (Suzy); 11 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his father, mother, brother and wife, Wanda.
He will be remembered for his wit, kindness, intelligence and patriotic nature. His legacy lives on through his family and the many lives he touched.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025 from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Hodgen Distributing Banquet Room in Pendleton.
A luncheon will begin at 1 p.m., and the celebration of life will be from 2 to 4 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Furst Friends Organization or Vange John Good Shepherd Memorial Hospice.
Please share memories of Donald with his family at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
