Donald R Gagnon

Obituary Donald Gagnon, 90, died peacefully at home on March 2, 2017. Don was born on March 15, 1926 in Yakima, Washington and is predeceased by his wife Frances, who died on April 1, 2014. He is survived by his children Renee (Wayne), Don Jr. (Karin), Michele (Steven), John (Annette), and grandchildren John, Peter, Croix, Theresa (Jose Carlos), Aura (Justin), Forrest and Jacqueline, great grandchildren Beau and Eilie, and brother Paul. Following Don's graduation from O'Dea High School in Seattle, he served in Europe in the army. After his return, the G.I. bill assisted him in graduating from Seattle University, where he met Frances, his future wife and one true love. They married in 1949 and had four children. Don had several careers throughout his life, including Gagnon Displays, Boeing, Evergreen Modular Homes and eventually Gagnon Homes, his own home building company. Don had a warm smile, a huge heart and loved his family above all else. He showed his love in many ways, including celebrating very big on holidays. He especially loved the Fourth of July and any excuse to shoot off fireworks. For years he led treks through the snowy mountains in search of the perfect Christmas tree. Don took many fishing trips to Alaska and Westport in pursuit of the "Big Kahuna" salmon, which remained elusive and is now part of his family's folklore. Don lived his progressive Catholic faith through volunteering throughout his life and advocating for peace. He was a very caring person and found a like-minded community with Father Bichsel and the Tacoma Catholic Workers, as well as St. Leo's Parish. For years he volunteered for many building and renovation projects in Tacoma's Hilltop area and acted on his beliefs by addressing homelessness, hunger and illegal ICE detentions. Most recently he regularly provided dinner at Guadelupe House with the help of his children. In retirement, Don and Fran loved taking trips to Europe and winter getaways to Cancun. Don was an avid reader and lifelong learner who enjoyed studying both French and Spanish. After Frances died, he continued to live independently and enjoyed traveling, YMCA workouts, weekly dinners with family, trips to the casino, garlic growing and trying out new recipes. Don had a rich, full life and will be deeply missed by his family. A funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Leo's Parish on April 1, 2017 at 11:00 a.m.Reception to follow at the Father Bichsel Hall across from the church. Guestbook messages may be left at gaffneyfuneralhome.com. Donations to Guadelupe House 1417 South G St. Tacoma, WA 98405, would be appreciated in lieu of flowers.