“I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo. “So do I,” said Gandalf, “and so do
all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what
to do with the time that is given us.”
― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring
 
Donald “Donnie” Eugene Gilmore of Deer Park, Washington, passed away on June 12, 2026, at
the age of 73. He was born in Spokane, Washington, on August 22, 1952. In 1973, Don enlisted
in the United States Marine Corps and served on active duty for two years. In 1983, he graduated with a degree in education from Eastern Washington University. Don was a beloved teacher at Springdale Elementary for 25 years. He even got to teach his two sons when they were in the fifth grade (much to their chagrin!). He retired in 2015. Don was married to Denise Wurz (Lesmeister) from 1983 to 1995.

   
Don was a free spirit who lived life his own way. He was known for his good sense of humor,
and he loved rock music, bowling, backpacking, driving, and whitewater paddling. He especially
treasured spending time with his sons, daughters-in-law, and granddaughters. Thanksgiving will
never be the same without his presence and his ability to spray champagne across the ceiling
when opening the bottle.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Donna Gilmore, and his siblings, Eddie
Gilmore, Linda Chappell, and Phyllis Paetsch. He is survived by his two sons, Levi (Sarah)
Gilmore and Ryan (Sakena) Lesmeister, and two granddaughters, Lydia and Sadie Lesmeister.

A private service will be held by family members at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial
contributions can be made to the Spokane chapter of Team River Runner.