Don Lynch

Donald Walton Lynch, 92, passed away quietly on Dec. 4, 2007.

Don was born on Dec. 4, 1915, in Fort Benton to Austin E. Lynch and Maude (Sullivan) Lynch. His early years were spent on the family farm with no electricity or running water, and where the farming was done with horse drawn equipment.

He graduated from the University of Montana prior to serving four years in the Navy during World War II. During his Navy experience, Don was the chief engineer on the destroyer USS Mugford. He reached the rank of lieutenant.

After the war, he married Edwina Sundholm, completed a doctorate in forestry from Duke University and pursued a career with the Forest Service. He retired in 1973 after 28 years with the Forest Service.

In his retirement, Don enjoyed spending the summer months in Whitefish. His hobbies included crafting handmade violins. During his adult life, Don was active in the Presbyterian Church. He was a member of the Calvary Presbyterian Church in Riverside for more than 30 years.

Don was a loving husband, a fantastic father and a generous friend to many.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years, Edwina, and his two sisters, Margaret Turner and Nonie Krall.

He is survived by his three children, David Lynch, of Los Angeles, John Lynch and wife Denise, of Olympia, Wash., and Martha Levacy and husband Ronald, of San Diego, Calif.; grandchildren Jennifer, Edward, Steven, Andrew, Austin, Michael, Robert, Patrick and Riley; and great grandchild Sydney.

A memorial service took place Dec. 11, 2007, at Calvary Presbyterian Church in Riverside. Burial will be at the Riverside Veterans Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Calvary Presbyterian Church, Riverside, or to the First Presbyterian Church, Whitefish.