Donald W. Mackey, 79

Donald W. Mackey, 79, of Marion, passed away on Thursday, April 26, 2007, at HealthCenter Northwest in Kalispell. He was born on May 23, 1927, at Bonners Ferry, Idaho, the son of William and Beulah (Woodward) Mackey. He was raised and received his education in Bonners Ferry.

He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps at 17 years of age and was honorably discharged in 1946. He moved to Kalispell in 1947 where he met and subsequently married Louise Richmond on June 27, 1948, in Missoula.

His work history includes owning his own saw mill in Plummer, Idaho, several years on the bridge crew of Great Northern Railroad, and then beginning in 1948, began work as an apprentice lineman at Flathead Electric Co-Operative, then lineman, foreman and general foreman working until his retirement in 1982 after 34 years.

He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying fishing, hunting and camping. He always had a plentiful vegetable garden. He was a very skilled woodworker, building the family home, and many other items for the family to enjoy. He had a great sense of humor. But his greatest love was that of his family and spending time with children and grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Eugene, Irvin and Edward Mackey and Floyd Worley; and three sisters, Norma Straw, Margaret Ruenger and Cora Worley.

He is survived by his wife, Louise Mackey of Marion; son, Roy Mackey and his wife, Charlene, of Marion; daughter, Sue Waggener and husband, James; son, Rod Mackey and wife, Amy, all of Kalispell; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; a sister, Lois Perez of Cheney, Wash.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be sent to Home Options Hospice, 175 Commons Loop Suite 100, Kalispell, MT 59901.

There are no services planned at this time for Donald.

Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for Donald's family.