Donald Claffey, 74
Donald Claffey, 74, passed away on Monday, Oct. 22, 2007, at his home in Polson. Don was born on April 10, 1933, in Polson, to Ernest and Ruby Claffey. He attended school in Polson and graduated from Polson High School in 1952. Don took his freshman year of high school off to 'work in the woods.'
Don served his country with the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1953 to 1954. Don was active with the Ironworker Union and worked the Alaskan Pipeline. He was a 'snowbird' ironworker working in California and Arizona during the winter.
Don and Karen spent the last eight winters at their home in Mohave Valley, Ariz.
He was a lifetime member of the VFW and a Cootie member. He also belonged to the National Horseshoe Pitching Association, and loved to pitch horseshoes and compete in tournaments. Don also helped with the Polson Boxing Club and was quite accomplished (commented before commentators did).
Rodeo kept Don from playing college basketball and a promising acting career. Don had quite a 'hook shot' and loved basketball. He had several parts in '26 Men.' (If anyone has access to this movie, Karen would like a copy.)
Don enjoyed watching sports on TV. He loved working with horses and was very willing and anxious to tackle all. Their herd would follow the 'pied piper' with his pocket full of pellets.
Don loved to create anything out of nothing. He created metal tree picture frames that could not be recreated.
His parents, Ernest and Ruby Claffey, and his only son, 'K.O.' Kenneth Orion Claffey, preceded Don in death.
He is survived by his wife, Karen, of Polson; his stepsons, Erik and Anisa, and Edward Lanphier of Plainfield, Ill.; his granddaughters, Breena, Whitney and Leah; and numerous cousins.
A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 26, at the VFW Hall with Deacon Wes Vert officiating. A reception will follow the services at the VFW Hall.
Memorials may be made in Don's name to the Humane Society, Lake County Search and Rescue, or to the donor's choice.
Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Grogan Funeral Home and Crematory. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.groganfuneralhome.com.