October 21, 1918 ~ February 12, 2013

Don was born in Crowley, La. to James and Grace Milliken. He was preceded in death by his parents, both older brothers, Ralph and Paul, and by his loving wife of almost 62 years, Lillian (nee Mueller). He was a Presbyterian and a Free Mason.

Donald is survived by his three children — Mary Jo Carlsen (John Wheeler), Jean Silk and Paul (Marie-Paule) – and seven grandchildren.

Donald was raised in southern California and after his six years in the Army Air Force and U.S. Air Force (during and after WWII), lived in Great Falls, Montana and Seattle and on Whidbey Island, Washington.

His specialty in the service was ILS (Instrument Landing System). His last years in the service were spent as S-3 (NCOIC of Plans and Training and Troop I&E) of the 1962nd AACS Squadron as a S/Sgt. Most of his civilian employment was in the fields of insurance and mortgage banking.

He graduated from Chaffey Junior College, in Ontario, Calif. and attended the University of Idaho and the College of Great Falls.

Donald’s wife, Lillian, passed away after more than 25 years of Alzheimer’s Disease. As a result, Don spent almost every day of his last years on the computer, searching the Internet for articles, studies and reports on Alzheimer’s, Dementia and caregiving. Those that he downloaded, he disseminated to many interested persons. That led to his being honored by the Alzheimer Society of Washington. He also mentored regularly at support groups.

Don and Lillian especially enjoyed their trips and tours in Europe.

Don will be missed and will be long-remembered for his puns and humor.

At his request, there will be no funeral service, as he won’t be there.

A memorial service/celebration of Don’s life will be held on Sunday, April 21, 3:00 p.m., at the Bayview Senior Center in Langley.