Hamlet

July 2, 1931 — Sept. 28, 2023

Donald Alman Hill, of Hamlet, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family.

Donald was born in Seaside to Edna and Henry Hill, living on the family homestead during the summer, and residing and attending schools in Seaside during the school year.

He loved his childhood growing up in Hamlet; fishing the streams, hunting the mountains and valleys and helping his parents with the homestead.

After graduating from high school, he attended Oregon State University for one year. He then joined the U.S. Air Force, and began his service in Burlington, Vermont.

While in Burlington, he met his beloved wife of 63 years, Joan Barbara Osborne. He was later stationed on Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines, and after receiving honorable discharge, he returned to Oregon.

Don recently talked about his regrets not furthering his education, but explained “he didn’t have two cents, and his dad didn’t have two dimes,” so he got a loan for a used log truck and started a business to support his family and help with the homestead. Don also commercial dory fished and dug for razor claims to help support his wife and five children.

He was a talented pianist, loved dancing, playing cards, reading, bowling, golfing, fishing, hunting and clamming.

Don is survived by his three daughters, Sherry Bode (Ron), Barbara Malman and Lorraine Brown (Craig); and son, David Hill (Ronna). He was preceded in death by his wife, Joan Hill, his son, James Hill, and his granddaughter, Julie Brown.

Gramps was loved and adored by 17 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren. In addition, for the past six years he enjoyed a wonderful companionship with a special lady, Sharon Laymon, of The Dalles.

Don had little use for material things, but treasured adventure, experiences and precious time spent with family and dear friends. He left a great legacy of what family and relationships should be in those he raised, loved and spent time with.

A memorial service honoring Donald was held on Oct. 14 at Coastline Christian Fellowship in Olney.

Donations can be made in Don’s memory to Seaside Scholarships Inc., Re: Don Hill Memorial Scholarship, P.O. Box 332, Seaside, OR., 97138 or online.

Hughes-Ransom Mortuary is in charge of the arrangements.