Ellsworth D. Finlayson's Obituary
Ellsworth D. “Don” Finlayson, age 89, passed away in Puyallup, Washington on January 31, 2024. Born on May 13, 1934, in Bismarck, ND as the youngest of five children to his parents Ellsworth “Al” and Bertha Finlayson, he lived in North Dakota until the age of eight. The family then moved during WWII to reside in Milton, WA. Don lost his father in 1948 at the age of 14.
Don attended Fife High School from 1950 to 1954 where he was highly decorated for achieving four consecutive individual State Champion Titles in the sport of Wrestling. He was the team captain in 1953 and 1954. For his success, he was awarded the Harry Sorenson Inspirational Trophy for Leadership in 1954. He also played varsity Football for three years and served as the team captain in 1954.
Don married Arlene M. Touchette in 1956 and their union produced three sons. He enlisted in the US Naval reserves in 1954 and later saw active-duty deployment in the South Pacific from 1957 – 1959. After his honorable discharge from the Navy in 1960, he began a career with West Coast Grocery Co./SuperValu spanning over 36 years of service as a long-haul truck driver. He was a proud member of the Teamsters Union.
In retirement since 1996, Don enjoyed maintaining his properties and tending livestock on his “farm”. He found great joy in cows, sheep and other pets. His neighbors often commented about the animals on the “farm”. He was known by numerous friends and acquaintances, having lived in the Milton/Edgewood area his entire life.
Don was preceded in death by his wife Arlene “Susie”, and siblings Geraldine “Toodie” Farrar, Frank “Scotty” Finlayson, Leonard Finlayson and Dona Offner. He is survived by his three sons David, Gary (Julie) and James “Jimmy” (Dawn), as well as his five grandchildren Ryan (Abbie), Arlene, Joshua, Benjamin and Owen. In addition, he leaves behind three great grandchildren Smith, Carson and Peyton.
In accordance with Don’s wishes, he is being laid to rest at a small, private family gathering. Funeral Services provided by Mountain View Cemetery, Tacoma, Washington.
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