Donald W. Winskill

Donald W. Winskill died suddenly and unexpectedly on March 7, 2021 in Tacoma. Don was born on March 22, 1952. He was a lifelong resident of Tacoma, and was a graduate of Stadium High School, the University of Washington, and the University of Puget Sound School of Law.

Don had been in the continuous practice of law from 1979 until the time of his death. He was a member of the Washington State Bar Association, the Tacoma-Pierce County Bar Association, the Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and the Washington Defenders Association.

In his practice, Don was first and foremost a trial lawyer, devoted to the interests of his clients. Early in his career he was a Pierce County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, and materially contributed to the establishment of one of the nation's earliest sexual assault units, coordinating resources of prosecution, law enforcement, and social service agencies. He was a much sought-after advocate in many of Pierce County's and Western Washington's most challenging legal proceedings. To his cases he brought high forensic skill, integrity, professionalism, and a strong sense of justice.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Edward M. and Betty Winskill. He is survived by his cherished partner Lissa Flannigan, her children Conor and Owen Flannigan and grandson Leander Flannigan, and his stepchildren John A. Austin, III (Danielle) and Larissa Maziak (Adrian), and their children Abigail and Charlotte Austin, and Aaron Maziak.  He is survived also by his five siblings, Elizabeth Friedrich (Marlin), Edward S. Winskill (Debbie), John Winskill (Jan), Bob Winskill, and Jim Winskill (Sheryl), by brotherly cousin Steve Boots (Patra), and by many beloved nieces and nephews.

Don Winskill was an active outdoorsman all of his life. He was an accomplished blue-water sailor, Scuba diver, pilot, motorcyclist, and sure waterfowl and pheasant shot. He hosted yearly post-season "Duck dinners", replete with roast duck, goose, other game, and tall tales; unforgettable occasions for family and friends.

Don was a man of charm and ease of manner. These attributes, along with a steadfast temperament and sense of humor, led to the forming of lasting friendships. He had a wide circle of friends from all areas of his life, professional and personal; they include many who had been his friends from childhood and youth.

These rare personal qualities also made Don the linchpin in a family of strong-willed siblings. With a smooth mixture of diplomacy and natural authority, he became the enduring center of the family unity bequeathed by their parents. His legacy among his brothers and sister will never fade. Nor will his love and devotion to Lissa, John, and Larissa.

By them, and by his many friends and colleagues, he will be deeply missed.

Memorial Service and Celebration of Life

March 20th at 1:00

Location:  The Dunholter Farm, 2763 SE 160th U St, Olalla, WA

Current restrictions will be taken into account.

Directions:  Take Purdy Key Center exit from west bound Hwy 16, at 154th St NW turn right, at SE 160th U St. turn right.  Approximately .2 miles on left will be the sign for Dunholter Farm.