Donald "Don" George VanderWal

Donald "Don" George VanderWal was born on March 23, 1953, in Shelton, Washington to Merle (Jadin) and Peter K. VanderWal. He graduated from Shelton High School in 1971. Don worked at Timbers Restaurant during his high school years. He then worked for OK Roofers. He also worked as a sleeper for the Shelton Fire Department. About 1973, he began working for his dad at VanderWal's Garage, which he made his lifelong career, taking over the business when his father passed away in 1986. He met the love of his life, Sue Ruddell, on a blind date in 1973, and they were married on September 13, 1975. They would have celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary in just a couple of weeks.

Don was always a hard worker and always dedicated to his family. He was easy-going and always had a smile and an encouraging word for others. He was a devoted Christian and he and Sue attended Gateway Christian Center.

Don had an adventurous nature. In his younger years, he went hiking with his brother Chuck in the Olympics. He enjoyed four-wheel driving his Bronco. He loved road trips, and his favorite trips were to the Dakotas to see his extended family. He loved water skiing and surfing behind the boat. He also enjoyed bike riding. Additionally, he loved vacationing at the ocean with his family. Don and Sue loved to take walks in the woods on Sunday afternoons.

Don and Sue were blessed with two children, Jessica and Justin. In turn, they were blessed with seven grandchildren. Jessica (Ben) Litjen resides in Colorado with their two children, August and Holland. Justin and his five children, Summer, Alexander, Brittney, Heather, and Jaxson reside in Shelton.

Don was preceded in death by his mother and father and two brothers, Karl Vander Wal and David Vander Wal.

Don served his God well, his family well, and his community well.

Don's Celebration of Life will be held at Gateway Christian Center on Saturday, August 24th at 2:30 p.m. All family and friends are lovingly invited to attend.