Donald "Don" Taylor

Donald “Don” R. Taylor age 94, passed away on Monday July 9, 2018 in Kalispell. Don was born on December 23, 1923 in Spokane, WA. To Ralph and Frances (Flack) Taylor. He attended local schools and Washington State (College) University in Pullman WA. Was his college of preference World War II called him into the U.S. Navy in February, 1943 he served 3 ½ years  in the South Pacific aboard amphibious assaults ships: U.S.S. Calvert and later  U.S.S. War Hawk. Upon receipt of his Honorable Discharge he returned to WSC to pursue a degree in Animal Husbandry and became a member of Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity. He and his bride of 71 years, Leoma were married in Walla Walla, WA on June 22, 1947. Don managed several ranches in ID, WA and OR. Before moving to the Flathead to manage Lazy N. Ranch, Inc on the north shore of Flathead Lake. He was a member of several organizations and served as a $-H Leader with his children. The family have been active members of Bethany Lutheran Church in Bigfork, Whereby Don served as council president for several terms.

Upon the death of Rich Neils, a fraternity brother and owner of the Lazy N. Ranch Inc. Don began a new career working for Cenex, (Formerly Equity Supply). After retirement he worked with the local Christmas Tree Growers. Since he lived near Eagle Bend Golf Course, he decided to try a new challenge and enjoy golf. He was proud of his success of two “Hole in One” credits within the age range of his 70’s and 80’s. When Don was asked to make a large cross for the Men’s Retreat---He also made pocket crosses for the attendees, hence the hobby was born, and he has since made thousands to give away—even to people in foreign countries. Don was among the first men to become active in Bigfork’s “Dirt Bags” organization—a group of Christian men who gathered every Friday morning for Bible Study. Don’s children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were his delight.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and older sister Dorothy Taylor Campbell and husband Keith of Spokane: and nephew Richard Campbell.

Don is survived by his wife Leoma, daughter Marsha (John) Voelker of Columbia Falls; their son Jason (Melissa) Voelker and children Kinsey and Keenan, son Ryan Voelker of Columbia Falls, daughter Merridy Taylor of Butte; son Kirt (Lynn) of Bigfork and their children; Luke (Caroline) of Fort Worth, TX; Jenna Taylor of Bigfork, Jessie (Austin) Robbins and son Josiah of Kalispell; and Scott Taylor of Bigfork, and many nieces and nephews. Burial has taken place at Bethany Luther Cemetery in Bigfork. A Celebration of Don’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m. Friday July 13, 2018 at Bethany Lutheran Church. The family request Memorial Donations be made to Bethany Lutheran Memorial Fund or the donors choice.

Friends are encouraged to visit our website at www.buffalohillfh.com to leave notes of condolences for the family. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory caring for the family.