Donald E. Travis

Donald E. Travis, age 76, of Bellingham passed away at his home surrounded by his family Sunday, April 28, 2013. He was born Sept. 10, 1936 to Walter & Martha Travis in Minot, North Dakota and graduated from MHS in the Class of 1954. Don entered the US Navy at age 17 serving his country through the end of Korea and all of Vietnam, and was so proud of the fact that he retired at age 36 on a full 20 year retirement as a Machinist’s Mate Chief Petty Officer. He & Lee with their two sons settled in Whatcom County where he was employed by Mobil Oil Refinery which became BP and retired again at age 56. Don was fantastic at fixing things with what was on hand and always enjoyed the challenge – “bend to fit and paint to match”.

Don & Lee joined his sister Betty & husband Gary and lived the nomadic life for 12-1/2 years as modern day Gypsies in 5^thwheel RV’s going wherever the back roads took them.

He was preceded in death by his parents and nephew, Michael Larson and is survived by his wife Lee of 45 years; sons, Richard (Pat), David (Cheryl) & Stuart; grandchildren, Andy, Zach & Kassi; great-grandsons, Gavin & Alex; sisters, Betty Thomas (Gary) and Micki Costa; numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

“I’ve lived life how I wanted to live it. I have no regrets or complaints.”

A graveside inurnment service will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery, Ferndale with Full Military Honors by the Albert J. Hamilton Post #7 American Legion, Thursday, May 9, 2013 at, 11:00 AM, with Chaplain Cheryl Smith officiating. Reception following at Fox Hall, 3985 Bennett Dr., Bellingham, WA 98225.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Whatcom Hospice, 2800 Douglas Road, Bellingham WA 98225