Donald Lawrence Putz

Donald Lawrence Putz July 2, 1936 – August 6, 2012 Honored Army Veteran of 27 years Donald, 76 years of age, passed away in his sleep at home on Monday, August 6, 2012. He was born on July 2, 1936, in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, to Joseph Putz and Loveada Mary Riley. In 1955, Don married Betty Lou Pratt, and they raised their children until her death in 1993. Don also went to the United States Armed Forces Institute/University of Maryland in 1974. He also went to Southern Illinois University from January 1979 to August 1980. Don was very proud to have served in the U.S. Army, and did so honorably for 27 years. He served in the Vietnam War and Korean War. Following his military career, Don worked for Howard’s Cleaners & Uniforms from January 1988 to September 1991, Silo Inc September 1991 to January 1992, and Sheraton Tacoma Hotel. Don has lived many places in his life including McKeesport, PA; Kitzingen, German; South Korea; Fort Lewis, WA; until finally settling in Olympia, where he lived for 29 years. Don’s number one interest was walking with people about his savior, Jesus Christ. He was a very popular greeter at his church, Faith Assembly Church of Lacey. He also volunteered at Faith Harvest Helpers. Don enjoyed reading, growing flowers, and eating a good cooked meal. He loved to talk with people, and always talked with his whole body not just his hands. People always loved to listen and watch Don speak because of his facial expressions and the sound effects he would include. He also loved to laugh and always had a smile on his face. He was very approachable, had great integrity, and was very honest. Don is survived by and will be greatly missed by his son Joseph Charles Putz; his daughter Cynthia Jean Holdren; two brothers Charles Thomas Putz and William Joseph Putz; three sisters Kathleen Jean Serapiglia, Michele Renee DiLucente, and JoAnne Elaine Glemba; 5 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Betty Lou, his son Timothy James Putz, and his brother Thomas Charles Putz. Family suggests that memorial donations be made to Faith Harvest Helpers at P O Box 14672, Tumwater, WA 98511, 360-790-9519, or . Please leave memories of Don or condolences for the family in the Guestbook below.