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Donald Maxwell Donald Maxwell
In Memory of
Donald
Maxwell
1953 - 2017
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Obituary for Donald Maxwell

Donald  Maxwell
Donald Lee Maxwell, a resident of The Dalles, Oregon, passed away February 5th, 2017 at his home surrounded by his loved ones.

Donald was born March 28th, 1953 in Enterprise, Oregon. He was the new addition to his older brother James Bailey Maxwell, who was 2 ½ years older. His parents, Marvin Lee Maxwell and Ella Blanche Maxwell, named Don after his uncle, Donald (Bud) Maxwell. His family moved to Ontario, Oregon in 1954 as his father pursued his career in banking. In 1955 they moved to Merril, Oregon, where they welcomed new baby Gregory Dale Maxwell. His father’s banking career relocated them to many places including Hood River and then eventually Condon where they settled down for a while. Don initially found his love for music in elementary school in Condon, where he played drums in a 4th grade cover band of The Turtles. However, when it came down to stage time, theirs sign was spelled, “The Trutles.” This only fueled his love of music and Don began guitar lessons during this time.

Don’s family lived in Burns and John Day, Oregon throughout his high school years. Don graduated from John Day High School in 1971. He enjoyed football, basketball, and track during his 3 years in high school there. Summers he worked at the Hines Lumber Mill and was a weekend reserve firefighter. He loved hunting, fishing, and working his trap-line. He then furthered his education at Blue Mountain Community College, in Pendleton from 1971-1973. He graduated with an Associate in Science Degree in Radio Broadcasting, while working at local station KTIX.

Returning to Condon, Don drove a grain truck and later became Manager of the Elevator. He met Kathy in Condon in October of 1977, while holding the door open for her at the post office. Kathy was teaching 2nd grade at the time. Their first date was a fishing trip to a stream with lots of rattlesnakes. Don and Kathy then moved to The Dalles. Don was hired as a disc-jockey at KACI radio station, while Kathy was hired at Chenowith Elementary School. Don soon became a full-time sales manager at KACI. He loved being out in The Dalles community, getting to know people and helping them advertise their businesses.

Donald Maxwell married Kathleen Raasch on August 14th, 1982 at the home of Ken and Marge Raasch in Hood River. The purchase of 10 acres gave Don and Kathy huge challenges and joy. Putting in a manufactured home and a barn was the start of their beautiful country retreat. Don loved being outdoors working on beautifying the landscape. It was soon after that, he began his work with Craig Office Supply.

On October 11th, 1989, Bailey Anne Maxwell was born. Bailey was her parents pride and joy, and definitely a daddy’s girl. As Bailey grew, so did her interests and activities. Don and his camera rarely missed an event. Don was not only his daughter’s biggest cheerleader, but also her #1 coach in both sports and life. It was always clear that he would move heaven and earth for her.

In his later years, Don filled his days with what he loved. He returned to radio with BiCoastal Media, continued the upkeep of his beloved country home, and spent countless adventures with his wife and daughter. Don was a family man and a good man. He believed in working hard, being honest, and giving a helping hand. He will be missed immensely by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

Don is survived by his wife of 34 ½ years, Kathy; Daughter Bailey; mother Ella Blanche; brother James Bailey and family; brother Gregory Dale; Aunt Thelma Maxwell; Cousin Bill Maxwell; Cousin Marcia Wood and Monte; brother and sister-in-law, Brian and Kristy Raasch and family; sister and brother-in-law, Jennifer and Ed Kanable and family. Don is also survived by many more extended family and friends.

Don was preceded in death by his father Marvin Maxwell and his in-laws Ken and Marge Raasch.

A graveside service will be held at Wallowa Cemetery on Saturday, June 24th at 1pm with reception to follow at the Wallowa Senior Center.

Remembrances in Don’s name may be made to Celilo Cancer Center Scholarship Fund (Celilo Cancer Center Fund, Mid-Columbia Health Foundation: 1700 E 19th St, The Dalles, OR, 97058) or Heart of Hospice (2621 Wasco Street Hood River, Oregon 97031).

Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center (Funerals • Receptions • Cremations) 204 E. 4th St. The Dalles, Oregon 97058. Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.

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