Donald March Stevens, age 82, passed away on Sunday, March 27, 2016 at NEMHS Trinity Hospital in Wolf Point, MT.
Donald was born April 7, 1933 to March and Nellie (Jenkins) Stevens. He was born and raised on the family farm near Glenburn, ND. After his father died the family moved into Glenburn. He attended school through the 8th grade.
After marrying Eloy Johnson on March 12, 1963, he branched out and started Don Stevens Welding Service, after learning to weld by working with his older brothers. He moved his family to Westby, MT, where he worked as an oil field and pipeline welder for many years.
Dad almost always, even when working, stopped for a coffee break. The coffee, cookies and bars today are served in memory of Dad.
Dad helped establish the Westby Lions Club. He was at one time the Treasurer, the tail twister and the President of it. He was awarded the Lion’s Presidential Award but his most treasured duties there was when he brought the circus to town. He loved cooking pancakes and visiting with the community every year at the Lions pancake breakfast.
He was a strong family man, often traveling to bring someone home for the holidays, helping move kids and attended a school event when a dad couldn’t. He taught his kids and grandkids how to hunt. He loved to fish and bought a boat with Rona, which they restored together.
Dad loved to “sing” the grandkids and great-grandkids to sleep. We always said they fell asleep on self-defense, as dad didn’t know any lullabies. He’d make up words to songs like zippity do-dah or maisey does’e dotes. His songs were quite creative.
Dad was very appreciative of all the care his daughters provided to him. Special appreciation to Rona, who had dad living with her after mom passed away. It was a difficult decision Sheri and Rona made to put dad in the nursing home. Dad understood the reason, and accepted the fact Rona was not able to continue having him at home. May tears were shed by all three. Rona had been there for dad throughout his stay. Caring for him was made more difficult due to the fact Rona also works. Sheri would provide respite for Rona, but dad always wanted to be home. We figured if dad missed anyone when he moved to the nursing home, it would be Lobo, his canine companion since mom passed away. Happily, Lobo was allowed to visit dad the majority of the day. He would snuggle on dad’s lap and they’d both nap.
We are very grateful to Pam, who brought dad to the Senior Center for lunch, and to Bethany, who provided in home care for Dad. Dad enjoyed seeing Bethany’s children, and they were a highlight of his day. When Dad stayed at Sheri’s, Rick took good care of Dad, always ensuring he took his pills, did his breathing treatments and keeping his water glass full, as well as making sure he got enough to eat.
We are secure in the knowledge that Dad is in heaven, where he found his voice again. As he passed through the pearly gates, we can imagine him finding a crack to weld and having a lengthy discussion with St. Peter about how to fix it. We can imagine he’s probably said more than a few “Yes dear’s” to mom and probably mourns the fact that there’s “no hunting” signs posted. We thank God for blessing our lives with him and for the years we did have him with us. We loved Dad and will miss him, but don’t wish him back. As Mom would say, “this too shall pass.” Dad was ready to join Mom. Daily he would say “I want to go home.” Rona would tell him he’s still here, so it’s not your lucky day. Jesus wasn’t ready for him yet. As long as he was able the morning he passed, he was watching the clock on the wall and looking at his wristwatch. Mom had passed away roughly at 8 a.m. We believe somewhere in his mind, Dad remembered that. He too died a few minutes after 8 a.m.
Preceding him in death are his parents; his wife Eloy Johnson Stevens; sister Iva June Dooley and brothers: Roy, Howard, George Stevens. He is survived by his children Sheri Stevens, Rona Stevens, April Stevens and Warren Stevens; 10 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren; brother Gorton “Doc” Stevens and numerous nephews and nieces.
“Dad, this IS your lucky day.”
Carol Neutgens says
Rona, I am so sorry about your dad. It is not easy becoming an orphan at any age. I know you have many happy memories of him so hold tight to them. May God bless you and keep you.
Ann Guldborg says
Rona,
I am sorry to hear of the loss of your dad. I know these last few weeks have been stressful for you. I wish you peace and will be praying for you and your family.
Gayle Overgaard says
To the entire Stevens’ family–I am so sorry to hear about Don. He was such a memorable person. Having Rona open her home to Don more than likely gave him extra time with you all. My thoughts and prayers go out to you all.
Terri Lutnes says
Warren, Sheri, Rona, April and families,
There are no words to express how saddened I am to hear of Don’s passing. Please know you are all in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. We have such happy memories that we hold close to our hearts of the entire Stevens family.
Momma ‘Loy and Papa Don were the best God Parents Kristen could ask for and the best ‘nother mom & Dad I could ask for.
Love and prayers always,
Terri
Kristen & Josh
Linda, Karsyn & Aiva
Terri Lutnes says
I remember Don taught me how to tie my shoes – each time we came to visit he made sure I could still tie those shoes!
Don was such a teddy bear! He loved to play with the kids and tease us with his tape measure!!
I remember thinking ” doesn’t he know I’m a girl?” As Don wld always say to Rona, Laurie, April and I ” what are you boys doing ?”
I smile with fondness at the many many memories our families shared through the years – we are so Blessed to have these memories to look back on! ❤️
Jina Shourds Applegate says
Rona, I knew your dad and mom for many, many years.. you were a very little girl, and of course, your sister, Sherry and older brother, as well. Your folks were really good solid people, who loved visiting with my folks when we came to Westby, at my grandparents home… such great memories! You’re in my heart and my prayers old friend…
Marychris Robertson says
Please accept our prayers and condolences for your loss during this most difficult time. Darrell and I know how difficult this is for you.
Wayne & Robin says
We are so sorry for your loss. He was such a nice man and we have many memories of him being at the farm! Take care!
Pam Clark says
Rona and Family, I am so sorry to hear of Dons passing, he was very special and I loved spending time w him. I told my sister he reminded me of my Dad and my Uncle all mixed together. whenever I think of him he will always bring a smile to my heart <3 Prayers for your Family
Gary and Frances Steinberg says
Our thoughts and prayers are for all the Stevens families in this time of your loss. Don was a great man and it was my privilege to have been able to work with him (and learn from him) through my years in the patch. He was a great friend and will be missed.
Craig Holden says
My thoughts and prayers are with the Stevens Family, I am so sorry for you loss.
Cheryl Simpson says
So sorry for your loss. He was a treasure to of known and will be missed. Until we meet again Don ?? RIP
Everyone he worked for and with says
He spit on my work boot. I’m thinking it was kind of a right of passage that once ol Don spit on your boot you were ok in his book.
Michelle Barsness says
You are in my thoughts and prayers Rona. God Bless.
AJ says
I am sorry to hear the passing of Donald. May you be comforted by God’s word in John 5:28, 29 and Acts 24:15 that there will be a resurrection to life of all our dear loved ones.
Jim Marmon says
Rona, Sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. I enjoyed visiting with him at school. I wished I could weld as good as he could. I have several welding projects. Wish you and family the best.
Jim