Donald Owen Reeves

Donald Owen Reeves, affectionately known as "Uncle Don," graduated from this world on July 20, 2024, in Dayton, Idaho. Don was born on July 8, 1945, to loving parents Dickinson and Helen Owens Reeves at Oakland Naval Hospital in Oakland, California. His journey took him from California to Washington to Utah before finally settling in Idaho in 2011. Don touched the lives of many and left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Donald's remarkable life was filled with achievements and joys that shaped his legacy. He was devotedly married to Faye Packer Reeves for an incredible 57 years. Together, they raised a beautiful family that survives him - his daughter Rebecca Richards (Michael), daughter Rachel, son Matthew (Stephanie), and son Zebulon (Megan). Donald was also blessed with twelve grandchildren and two great-grandchildren who will carry forward his legacy with pride and love.

Donald's passion for the outdoors was evident from a young age. He swam competitively for the Aragon High School swim team and enjoyed camping and water-skiing trips with his family. His adventurous spirit also shone through his involvement in scouting activities. As a young father, he delighted in helping his sons create unique Pinewood Derby cars and Blue and Gold Banquet cakes.

Professionally, Donald earned a Bachelor's degree in Aeronautics from San Jose State University. His professional endeavors as a draftsman at Wilsey Ham in San Mateo, California, showcased his precision until a brain tumor took its toll on his coordination. Undeterred, he transitioned his career to work as a commercial real estate appraiser in Bellevue, Washington. Later, he moved into residential real estate appraisal in Draper, Utah, and went on to establish his own appraisal firm, Southfork Appraisal.

A man of unwavering faith, Donald was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His dedication led him to serve a mission in the Western States Mission. Together with his wife, Faye, he served three missions to the Heber Valley Girls Camp. In his later years, he spent countless hours in the temple alongside his beloved wife as they served as ordinance workers and in a weekly sealing group in the Jordan River Utah Temple.

Throughout his life, Donald exhibited traits that endeared him to all who knew him. He approached every obstacle with courage and humor, and his sense of humor brought light and laughter to those around him. His skills as a handyman were unmatched, and his wife boasted of having the cleanest garage on the block—a testament to his meticulous nature. Those close to him marveled at how he could check the oil in his car while wearing his Sunday suit without a speck landing on it. 

In this time of reflection and remembrance, we honor Donald Owen Reeves for the extraordinary life he led. His memory will forever remain etched in our hearts as we cherish the moments we shared with him. May he find eternal peace knowing that his legacy of love and service lives on through his beloved family and friends.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at the Dayton LDS church. A visitation will be held on Monday, July 29, 2024, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Red Rose Funeral Home, 56 S State Street, Preston. A second visitation will be held before the funeral services from 9:30 to 10:30 at the Dayton LDS Church. The interment will be in the Franklin, Idaho Cemetery.

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