Obituary - Donald D. Gormsen

Donald D. Gormsen, 75, Moscow

Donald D. Gormsen passed away at his home in Moscow Nov. 1, 2011, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Don was born March 4, 1936, to Leo and Ethel (Augir) Gormsen in Moscow. He was raised and attended school in Potlatch, where his father took a job with the Potlatch Mercantile. Don started work at PFI in 1954.

He joined the U.S. Navy in October 1956 and served aboard the attack transport ship the USS Talladega. He had two homeports, one at Long Beach, Calif., and the other one at Yokosuka, Japan. Don was honorably discharged October 1960 as an Electrician 2nd Class. After leaving the Navy, Don returned to PFI, later returning to Moscow to work at Johnny's Market. In 1968 he started work at the Moscow Post Office and retired in April 1999, after 31 years.

Don married the love of his life on Aug. 27, 1961, at Princeton. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Aug. 27, 2011.

Don followed his grandchildren throughout their sports, dance, and 4-H projects and was very proud of them and their accomplishments. He especially enjoyed woodworking and building shadow boxes for miniatures. He was a sports enthusiast and a big fan of the Moscow Bears and University of Idaho Vandals.

He is survived by his wife at their Moscow home; two daughters; one son; three grandchildren; and one brother.

He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. In Don's words "When I get to where I'm going, I will take wings and fly like a bird."

At his request no service will be held. Memorials in Don's memory may be made to the Hospice of the Palouse 700 S. Main, Moscow, ID 83843 or to a favorite charity.

Lewiston Tribune, November 6, 2011, p. 7C
Transcribed by Jill Leonard Nock

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