Donald Edward Klippstein's Obituary
Long time Deer Island resident Donald Edward Klippstein passed away at his home on September 8, 2023. He was 76.
Donald was born in Portland, Oregon, on December 26, 1946, to parents Carl Raymond and Eula Bernice Klippstein. To escape “city life,” the family relocated to the more rural community of Deer Island, where Donald and his two siblings (Raymond and Diane) attended St. Helens high school. Donald, himself, was active in football, wrestling, and baseball and retained his passion for sports all the years. Ducks football was #1 priority!
Upon graduating high school in 1965, Donald immediately enlisted in the US Air Force which turned out to be the start of a very long career in the military of which he was incredibly passionate. Donald’s mechanical inclination led him to specializing his years of service in the role of jet engine technician. Not only did he enjoy his job, but he also excelled in his field, earning numerous commendations and medals during his time. Donald continued with his military career until mandatory retirement in November of 1988. When given the opportunity, Donald was always happy and proud to share stories of his service to his country.
Donald’s military service was also appreciated by Donald for introducing him to his wife, Ok Klippstein. The two met at a Bob Hope USO show while he was stationed in Korea and were inseparable ever after. Donald and Ok spent many years together in various countries as part of his military deployments, and when it was time to retire both were very happy to settle into the farm life in Deer Island as self-described “home-bodies.”
Following 15 years of employment as a Trimet mechanic, Donald may have officially retired on paper but kept himself very busy through all the days that followed. When friends and family would call on him, he’d nearly always be “out in the woods” maintaining and enjoying the tree farm surrounding his home. For fun, Donald also spent a great deal of his time golfing, competing in tournaments and regularly scheduling games with friends.
Family was extremely important to Donald, as was being of assistance to friends and neighbors. His skills and generosity were so appreciated. He was always willing to help and would be there with only a moment’s notice.
Donald was predeceased by both of his parents, Carl and Eula Klippstein, and his brother, Raymond. He is survived by his wife, Ok Klippstein; his sister, Diane Klippstein; his nieces, Kathy Westall and Dawn Teves; and nephews, Tom and Joe McIntyre.
A funeral service with military honors has been scheduled for 1:00pm Friday, September 29, at Columbia Funeral Home in St. Helens, Oregon. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Donald’s favorite charity, Shriners Hospitals for Children.
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