Lewis John Washburn, 71

Lewis John Washburn, 71, "went to rest" on May 25, 2009, at home on the land he loved. By his side were his loving wife Donna, devoted daughter Desria, and his six canine friends.

John "Jack" was born on Nov. 13, 1937, to John and Berniece Washburn in Kalispell. John was raised on the shores of Lake McDonald in Apgar. His childhood was simple; school was a one-room schoolhouse, his days were filled with hunting and berry picking, and his favorite was fishing the creek.

In his younger adult years he was employed by the Great Northern railroad. He later was employed by many of the local sawmills in Montana.

In 1965, he moved to Spokane and became an independent contractor, doing floors, countertops, tile work and apartment renovations. He was truly a "Jack" of all trades. He spent time enjoying the simple life, camping, fishing, and Christmases spent in Montana with his children as they grew up.

In 1997, he married the last love of his life, Donna Robinson. They bought land and built a home together in Deer Park, Wash. John was happiest when at home with Donna, building or improving the land they loved, right until the end!

John is survived by his wife, Donna, of Deer Park; his mother, Bee Barry, of Columbia Falls; six children, John, Ted, Desria, Mitch and Darrell Washburn, all of Florida, and Larinda of Spokane; his two stepchildren, David Dowell of Montana, and Shan' Dell Dowell of Seattle; two very special granddaughters he helped raise, Desi-Kay McCullough of Florida, and Katrina Dowell of Montana; two brothers, Gilbert Washburn, and Mick and wife Marilyn Washburn, and sister, Cheryl, and husband, Tom Kemppainen, all of Columbia Falls; also a long list of special family members, grandchildren and extended friends.

At John's request, no services will be held.