H. Donald (Don) Gouge
Don died on January 23, 2014.
Don was born in Glasgow, MT on June 17, 1923 to Harry Gouge and Dorothy (Hagen) Gouge. The family moved to Great Falls, MT soon thereafter, where Don lived until graduation from high school. He was an only child, living through the Great Depression. He had an active, rewarding childhood and was the apple of his parent’s eye. He graduated from high school in 1941, having participated in football, basketball, and tennis.
After graduation, Don joined the army in 1942, becoming the pilot of a B-24 Bomber in the 8th Army Air Corp based in England. He was awarded citations for bravery.
Post discharge, Don attended the University of Washington, joined the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity, and obtained a B.S. in Engineering. He was the first person in his family to attend college. He worked for P G & E, in San Francisco, CA, and then for Boeing in Seattle, WA. He went back to school and obtained a law degree from the U of W. During this time, Don fell in love and married Patricia Pettersen, who was also from Great Falls. Don opened a law office in Renton, WA, where he practiced for almost 40 years. His professional reputation was established by his honesty and thoroughness.
Don was very involved in helping his family. He was the leader caring for many relatives, such as his 92 year old grandmother and his 101 year old father. His belief in education and desire to improve his children’s future were the driving forces behind their completing advanced educations.
Retiring in the late 1980’s Don and Patricia relocated seasonally to W. Yellowstone MT, where they enjoyed the out of doors for over 20 years. His happiest days were in Montana. His greatest honor was being feared by large rainbow trout.
Don was preceded in death by his 4 legged companion, Fido. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Patricia; daughter Stephanie (Gouge) Goodwin and Gaylon Goodwin; son Stephen Gouge and Lauren Wise; daughter Jennifer Gouge; grandson Tyson Goodwin and Dani (Bigby) Goodwin; granddaughter Kirsten (Goodwin) Young and Aaron Young; and great granddaughter Joslyn Young.
Private services will be held.
