Donald Harold Wyckoff, 95, of Eagle, Idaho, passed away on May 10th at 10 pm.
Donald was born in Ithaca, New York to Harold and Jennie Wyckoff. He married Ruth Dana on November 18, 1947.
Donald’s long life was characterized by quiet constancy, loyalty, and a deep love of his family. He lived his life according to his profound faith. He was a devoted husband and father. He grew to be a gentle and quirky grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great grandfather who loved nothing more than to be surrounded by his family.
Donald’s early years were spent on the family farm, where he quickly learned that farm life was not for him, though it instilled in him a lifelong love of gardening. After serving in the U.S. Army right after the end of World War II, Donald set off for California to make a life with his young family.
He and his family lived in Southern California for many years, relocating to Saratoga, California in 1962, where they lived for the following fifty years. During that time Donald had a fulfilling career at Lockheed Martin, retiring in 1986.
Donald and Ruth relocated to Eagle, Idaho in 2012 to be closer to family.
After retirement Donald threw himself into his many passions. He had a deep faith that he lived out through work in missions, including a year living abroad in Guatemala. He, along with his wife, Ruth, helped begin an outreach that provided childcare for children with special needs.
Donald could often be found gardening, lying in his hammock with a book, or biking around town. He also loved photography and traveled throughout California taking photos of the beautiful landscapes around him.
While Donald was a quiet man, he was also deeply wise and devoted to his family. He spent his time with his children, grandchild, and beyond, sharing his passions and skills and quietly speaking words of wisdom to each of them according to their needs. Donald’s legacy of love will ripple out for many generations.
Donald is preceded in death by his parents; his beloved sister, Norma Mull; his devoted wife of 68 years, Ruth Wyckoff; and granddaughter Kristin. He is survived by his three daughters, Lynda Dinneen, Karen Ayarra, and Margi Rohde; eight grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren.
The memorial service will be held at 4:00 pm on Saturday, June 3, 2023 at Bowman Funeral Home.