Donald Dornfeld, 78
Donald Dornfeld, 78, passed away on Wednesday, March 15, 2006, at St. Patrick's Hospital in Missoula.
He was born on June 26, 1927, in Blackduck, Minn., to Ernest and Christine (Beyer) Dornfeld.
Donald received his early education in Minot, N.D., and graduated from Minot High School.
He went right into active duty with the Navy serving his country from 1945 until 1948. He was then active in the Reserves until 1953.
Upon returning to Minot, Donald entered Minot Teachers College, graduating in 1952. While in school, Donald met Marvel 'Margie' Flom and the couple was married on Feb. 15, 1949, in Minot. After graduating, Donald spent a year as the recreation director for the Park and Recreations Department in Minot.
The family moved to Whitefish, in 1953, and Donald worked at the Whitefish High School teaching business courses for six years. During that time he was also the head basketball coach and assistant coach to both football and track. In 1959, he started his own independent State Farm Agency and operated that in Kalispell until his retirement in December of 1992.
Donald and Margie enjoyed traveling with their friends and seeing the countryside. Donald also enjoyed a good round of golf, was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church and took every opportunity to watch his grandchildren participate in sporting activities.
Donald was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Dellmar and Lloyd; and one great- granddaughter.
He is survived by his wife, Margie Dornfeld of Kalispell; three sons, Greg Dornfeld of Idaho Falls, Idaho, Scott Dornfeld and wife, Barb, of Sidney, and Pastor Steve Dornfeld and wife, Holly, of Bonners Ferry, Idaho; two daughters, Peggy Vickhammer and husband, Daryl, of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, and Mary Grilley and husband, Bill, of Columbia Falls; one brother, Ernest Dornfeld and wife, Meridythe, of Duluth, Minn.; 12 grandchildren and five great -grandchildren.
Memorial services for Donald Dornfeld will be held 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church with Pastor Larry Stappler officiating.
The family suggests memorial gifts be given to the Bethlehem Lutheran Trust, 603 S. Main, Kalispell, MT 59901.
Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for Donald's family.