Donald James Doerschlag, 89

Donald James Doerschlag, 89, of Kalispell, died Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2011, at Immanuel Lutheran Home with his loving wife, Virginia, by his side.

Don was born Feb. 20, 1922 in Sprague, Wash., to Ernest William and Grace Emily (Potts) Doerschlag. His early childhood was spent living in Idaho and Washington. In 1941 he graduated from Sprague High School. 

During World War II, Don served in the U.S. Navy. Following his Navy service, Don worked construction for a short time in Washington, and then became a member of the U.S. Border Patrol and was stationed in Sweet Grass.

 While in Sweet Grass, Don met the love of his life, Virginia Audrey Hagen, an employee of the Great Northern Railway. They were married in Spokane, on Sept. 11, 1945. Don and Virginia recently celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary.

Don then went to work for International Harvester Company in Spokane. His work took him to many states, including overseeing the equipment being used during the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam. In 1969, Don purchased a construction equipment sales company in Billings and renamed it Allied Equipment Company. He was the owner and president of this company until 1979 when he sold the successful business and retired. After retiring, Don and Virginia spent several winters in Utah and Arizona. Don and Virginia enjoyed living in many different places over the years.

Don was a member of many organizations. He was most active in the Masons, Shriners and American Legion. He served as commander of the Legion of Honor in Fresno, Calif. He was also very active in the Shrine. While living in Billings, Don became a member of the Black Horse Patrol and traveled to many places for Shrine activities. He and his horse Duster were very special friends. Don loved animals and had three cherished dachshunds — Zipper, Pokey and Princess. 

As a successful businessman, Don served as a mentor and guide for many other business people who were fortunate enough to be exposed to his experience and wisdom. While in Billings, Don served on the board of directors for First Citizens Bank. He also served on the board of directors for First Citizens Bank in Columbia Falls for nearly 20 years.

Don was an accomplished pilot and was especially fond of flying his Cessna 340. Don and Virginia loved to travel. They enjoyed many special memories with their dear friends, including cruises, golfing, camping and fishing.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Virginia "Gee" Doerschlag; a niece, Delmarie Cleland; of New Mexico; a nephew, Steven Doerschlag, and his wife, Sandy, and their two daughters, Kelly and Kacey, of Eaton, Colo.; a nephew, Gary Doerschlag, his wife, Julie, and their two daughters, Morgan and Chelsea, of East Wenatchee, Wash.; and several cousins and their families in Montana, Washington, Virginia and Connecticut.

One of Don's last wishes was to thank his loved ones, his dear friends, and all those who were there for him before and during his final weeks. They were all loving and caring, and helped in so many ways. Special thanks go to all of the staff at Immanuel Lutheran Home, who took such wonderful care of Don.  Don truly was a very wonderful, caring man and will be greatly missed.

At Don's request, no formal services will be held. Cremation took place under the direction of Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory.

In lieu of flowers, if you wish, memorials in Don's memory may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Don's family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to view Don's guest book, offer condolences and share memories.