Donald Russell Staley, 82

Donald Russell Staley, 82, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 15, 2006, surrounded by loved ones.

Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, July 24, 2006, at the New Testament Church in Newport, Wash.

Don was born on Dec. 7, 1923, in Elk, Wash., the son of Russell and Elizabeth Staley.

After serving in the U.S. Army during World War II, Don married Velma Bainter in 1946, soon owning and operating the Rainbow Station and Cafe in Wilbur, Wash. After selling the business in Wilbur, he moved on to work with the U.S. Forest Service in Spokane.

When the Forest Service relocated, Don became a deputy sheriff in Pend Oreille County, Wash. He later worked for the Bonner County Sheriff's Office, and then retired from the Priest River Police Department.

Don is best remembered for his expert ability to hunt and fish. He was always happy when he could be outdoors with his family and friends.

He is survived by his two daughters and sons-in-law, Sherry and John Kuntz of Chelan, Wash., and Marcea and Steve Seimears of Spokane Valley, Wash.; a brother, Kenneth Staley of Lincoln, Wash.; and a sister, Helen Wunsch of Mead, Wash. Don also is survived by four grandsons, Brian and Steve Seimears of Spokane, and Matt and Andrew Cerenzia of Chelan, Wash.; five great-grandchildren, Connor, Cailin and Brett Seimears, and Caitlin and Colby Cerenzia; and extended family member, Charlene Hirst, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Because of the great care and dignity provided, the family suggests any contributions be given to the Spokane Veterans Home on East Fifth in Spokane, Wash.