Donald G. Phelan

   For those who truly knew Don, he was the storyteller that brought life, character, and conviction to any memory that was sparked  by the moment's conversation, or he felt compelled to share regardless of the conversation. We got to explore the world along with him. We embraced fear and met many characters right along his side as he spoke about captivating adventures of horses and elk hunting with Krista, or being the helping hand of a two-year-old Lauren, gleefully helping to hold necklaces and chuckling when being asked, "another one? Thank you!" We get the gift of taking those moments and sharing them in memory of the man who walked their path.

  Don had more character than one body could hold. Some of this best parental wisdom was to ensure that you go to football practice when you are supposed to go to football practice, especially when you are being tailed by a horse named "spook." He was known as the mentor and the place maker that created space for anyone he saw with a spark. His words always commanded respect and his presence echoed. He would drive hours just to stop by, simply because the adventure beckoned, or he wanted to simply say hello.

  We don't get to choose our time; we never have. It's our precious responsibility to choose how our time is spent. Don didn't just live a life, he created it; he challenged it. He emulated the definition of honesty and integrity. He took hold of the time that was given to him and made use of each second. That's something to honor and emulate.

   He served as a Commanding Officer in the United States Army and was not only proud to wave the United States flag, but he demanded it's respect and honor. He said his contribution to the Army was his time served and his hearing. He often felt that those that lost limbs held higher precedence for Veterans benefits, however the VA was able to help provide the cochlear implants. Prior to the implants, one of the best memorial challenges was we had the privilege of helping Don acknowledge when the blinkers were on when they should be off by hand signals. After the implants, he was able to carry on conversations over the phone and warmly greet neighbors, when he once couldn't. Aside from the bats and the belfry, he thrived with the ability to hear, listen and understand.  

  Pastor Doug Hezletine, a family friend and confidant, commented on one of our many social media posts, one of the best all    en-compassing descriptions of our loving father, husband, and friend.

"Don was a giant of a man in all the ways that counted. A champion of faith and faithful to his commitments, Godly leadership and integrity. He was a man of his word and his words ALWAYS packed wisdom and value."

These services will be recorded and streamed live. In the event the service is interrupted at any time due to technical issues, the entire service will be uploaded and available to view later in the day.