Desmond Joseph McKenna

Generous in spirit, humor and good will, Des passed away peacefully surrounded by close family. Des was born to the late Josephine & Joseph McKenna on July 1st, 1923 in Portland Oregon. Three siblings followed shortly thereafter: Joseph McKenna, Eileen Kuchera and Virginia Pfiefer. When their father died in 1929, Des assumed a caretaking role at the very young age of 6. Des remained very close to his mother until her death and to his siblings until his. Des found great joy throughout his life in his many nieces, nephews and extended family. Des bravely served in the South Pacific during WWII as a surgical technician in the Army. He was a member of the 169th Infantry Regiment, 43rd Infantry Division. During his service, Des was awarded a Purple Heart, 2 Bronze Stars and the Silver Star for his valor. A Distinguished Unit badge was presented to Des for him and his unit’s gallantry, determination, and esprit de corps in accomplishing its mission under extremely difficult and hazardous conditions as to set it apart and above other units participating in the same campaign. Des returned to work for ViewMaster/GAF Corp for 40 years until his retirement. In 1961 Des married the love of his life, Doris Anne Friend, and was married for 51 years until his death. Together they raised two sons Curt & Tim. Des loved to travel and they enjoyed many trips to California, Mexico & Hawaii. In his later years Des found great enjoyment in watching sports. He loved to cheer on his favorite football teams of U of O and Notre Dame, and his favorite baseball team, the New York Yankees. Des is survived by his wife, Doris McKenna of Portland, sons Curt Diller of Portland and Tim McKenna of Brentwood, CA, brother Joseph McKenna of Portland, sisters Eileen Kuchera of White Bear Lake, MN and Virginia Pfiefer of Portland. Des will be missed by 5 grandchildren who held a very special place in his heart and 3 great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at a later date at Willamette National Cemetery.