Lewis 'Jack' Washburn

Lewis John (Jack) Washburn, 71, went to rest on May 25, 2009. By his side was his loving wife Donna and devoted daughter Desria.

Jack was born on Nov. 13, 1937, to John and Berneice Washburn in Kalispell and raised on Lake McDonald in Apgar. His childhood was simple — a one-room schoolhouse, and days filled with hunting, fishing and berry picking. He attended high school in Columbia Falls.

In his younger years, he was employed by the Great Northern Railroad. He later was employed by many of the local sawmills in Montana.

In 1965 he moved to Spokane, Wash., and became an independent contractor doing flooring, countertops, tile work and apartment renovations. Tile work became his trademark. He truly was a "Jack" of all trades.

Jack spent time enjoying and showing his children the simple things in life — camping, fishing and Christmas in Montana. He taught his boys the tile trade, which they have all carried into their adult lives.

Jack traveled often in his later years to visit his family in Montana and Florida. It was never decided if it was to visit family or to "fish," which was a great passion of his.

In 1997 Jack married Donna Robinson, the last love of his life. They bought land and built a home together in Deer Park, Wash. Jack was the happiest when building or improving the land he loved, right to the end.

Jack is survived by his wife, Donna Washburn in the family home at Deer Park, Wash.; mother Berneice Barry of Montana; six children, John, Ted, Desria, Mitch and Darrell, all of Florida, and LaRinda Washburn of Spokane; two special granddaughters, in which he helped raise, Desi-Kay McCullough of Florida and Katrina Dowell of Montana; step-children, David and Shan'Dell Dowell; brothers Gilbert (and family) Washburn, Mick and Marylin Washburn and family, and sister, Cheryl (Tom) Kemppainen, all of Columbia Falls; and a long list of special family members, grandchildren and friends. Last but not least are his faithful puppies until the end — Snickers, Angel, Bear, Missy, Rufus and Chico.

Jack will be missed, but a part of his heart will always be with us, reminding of his lists to be done.

At Jack's request no services were held. Please send condolences and prayers to: Bee Berry, Box 1294, Columbia Falls, MT 59912.