Donald Benusa

Donald Raymond Benusa Sr. passed away peacefully on April 8 at the age of 93. He leaves behind the love of his life, and his wife of 69 years, Charlotte, along with daughter Kathy (Randy), son Don Jr. and his sister, Jan.

Don was born July 11, 1929 to Raymond and Frances Benusa in Little Falls, Minnesota. His family later moved to Vancouver, Washington.

After attending high school, Don joined the Navy, serving 4 years. He was honorably discharged in 1950.

Don and Charlotte met on a blind date and married 4 years later in 1954. During this time, Don accepted a job at Scott Paper Company in Everett where he continued to work for 30 years. He was active in the union and charitable events sponsored by the paper company.

Don also served in the Volunteer Fire Department; District #6 until the Pinehurst neighborhood was incorporated into Everett city limits.

Throughout his life, Don loved sports. He played softball, fished and bowled. He was an avid golfer. He coached Little League and enjoyed cheering on our local teams, especially the Everett Silvertips and the Huskies.

Don loved camping and fishing at Alta Lake with family, making fond memories over the years. Don and Charlotte toured the state in their motorhome. They explored Europe, England, Greece, Australia, New Zealand and Canada. Each October for over 45 years, they celebrated their anniversary in Hawaii on the beloved island of Kauai. Their favorite song was "Dream a little Dream of Me." They loved to dance.

Don took pleasure in working in the yard and tinkering in his garage. He was a fixer of all things and a skilled builder.

After his retirement, he went to work for Randy's telecommunication company and became one of "the boys."

He was a proud member of Normanna, the Elks and the VFW.

Don touched the lives of all who knew him with his generosity, kindness, work ethic, willingness to help and his sense of humor. He knew how to be a good friend.

Above all, Don loved his family. On his last birthday, when urged to make a wish, he responded with, "I already have everything I need right here, sitting in front of me." He never failed to let us know how much we were loved.

Thank you for all the memories and love. You will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered.

There will be a service in honor of Don, Saturday, May 13 at 1:00 PM at Solie Funeral Home, 3301 Colby Avenue, Everett WA 98201, followed by a celebration of life at Sons Of Norway - Normanna Lodge, 2725 Oakes Ave. Everett, WA 98201.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in memory of Don to the Normanna Scholarship Fund.