Donald B. Vickaryous

On May 6, 2013, Donald B. Vickaryous went to be with his Lord.

A Vigil Service will be held Friday, May 17, at 7 p.m. and a memorial service will follow on Saturday, May 18 at 10 a.m., both at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Bonners Ferry.

Don was born in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, on May 27, 1938. He was the eldest of Michael and Kathleen’s six children. He grew up on his family’s cattle ranch in Porthill and graduated from Bonners Ferry High School.

Don joined the Marines in 1956 and served until 1959.

On Dec. 26, 1959, Don married Janet Wilke. After living for a short time in Colorado, New Mexico and Idaho, they settled in Castle Rock, Wash., in 1961 where they lived for many years. During that time they had five children; two sons Ray and Barry, and three daughters Shelly Hoisington, Tammy Benson and Carol Ross.

For most of his life Don made his living as a logger and an entrepreneur. In 1991 he and Janet moved back to their hometown of Bonners Ferry where they worked to make a dream come true, in 1992 they opened Twin Rivers Canyon Resort.

They operated the campground and RV park for several years. He took pleasure in giving back to his community and was active in many organizations and charitable causes including St. Ann’s Church, Habitat for Humanity, the Chamber of Commerce and the Selkirk Loop.

For the last 10 years he enjoyed his tenure on the board of Northern Lights Inc.

Don’s sense of humor was legendary. He possessed a quick wit and an ability to find the funny in any situation (even when it appeared that Mom did not).

He had a passion for living that was contagious; both his kindness and generosity were without limits. It never took long for anyone who met Don to see he was a truly amazing person. He gave freely of himself and his time, loved without condition, and welcomed all into his heart and home.

Throughout his life he was an attentive son, loving husband, patient and gentle father, proud grandfather, beloved uncle, caring sibling, generous friend, philanthropist, and humanitarian.

Don was unwavering in his devotion to his grandchildren and was happiest when he was spending time with them, other family members, or friends. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, gardening, golfing, traveling, and spending time outdoors.

Don was preceded in death by his father, Michael, and his brother Mike. He is survived by his wife, Janet, and by his mother, Kathleen; all five of his children and their spouses, 16 grandchildren; three brothers, Bob, Jim, and Kevin; a sister, Pat Smith; several brothers and sisters-in-law, and many nieces and nephews.

Giving to those in need was a hallmark of Don’s life. If you would like to make a contribution in his name there are many charitable organizations that were close to Don’s heart including Habitat for Humanity, Children to Children, St. Ann’s Catholic Church, and the Distinguished Young Women Scholarship program.