Donald "Donnie" Willette

Donald “Donnie” Willette 1945-2017 Don was born in Tacoma, WA on February 26, 1945 and passed away peacefully at home on July 23, 2017 after a courageous battle against cancer. He graduated from Mt. Tahoma High School in 1964 and spent 6 years in the Army Reserve. He had various jobs throughout his career always focused on something to do with the automotive industry. Don retired in 2007 from what he considered his favorite job working at Art Morrison Enterprise helping fellow street rodders realize their dreams. He had an award winning 1953 Chevrolet Belair and unfortunately was unable to finish his 1949 Chevrolet pickup due to his illness. He leaves behind his wife of 37 years, Mary Jo, his “boys” (cats) Bernie & Max, brother Jan (Linda) Willette, mother-in-law Betty Pasinetti, brother-in-law Jim (Dee) Pasinetti, sister-in-law Jeanette (Art) Morrison and several nieces and nephews. The family wishes to thank Rick and Jacci Williams for all their support especially at the end of his journey, Frank Trutman, Larry Still and Jim Olson for the countless hours Mary Jo could rely on them to visit so she could run errands, Dr.Gregory Arnette for his kindness and compassion throughout Don’s illness, Dr. Chitaley and staff at Multicare Regional Cancer Center, Don’s “family” at TG Interventional Radiology, Multicare Hospice and Pastor Dave Rodes for spending time with Don bringing peace & reassurance to him. Don had fond memories of his Joint Venture racing days and was happy to reconnect with some of his former friends associated with his racing years. Even though Don was never a member of the King’s Men Car Club he counted them among his true friends. Along with their daily walks, camping, fishing and going to car shows Don & Mary Jo truly enjoyed their annual trip to Las Vegas, an occasional road trip and numerous trips to Mexico and Maui or just hanging out together enjoying life. Don will be remembered for his kindness and loyalty to his friends and family and willingness to lend a hand or share a laugh. He will be greatly missed. A celebration of life will be held on August 15th at 11:00am at Puyallup Nazarene Church, 1026 7th Ave. SW, Puyallup, WA 98371 with a reception luncheon immediately following. In lieu of flowers remembrances can be made to: Puyallup Nazarene Church. (Please memo: in memory of Don Willette). All funds will go towards WrapUp Ministries to help families in need.