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BORN
1935
DIED
2014
Don Goldsberry Obituary
Don Goldsberry, born June 6, 1935, died recently of natural causes. Don will be most remembered for being a pioneer in the marine mammal field. He started his career at the Pt. Defiance Zoo and Aquarium and later went on to lead in the care and training of Namu the Killer Whale, one of the first killer whales to be introduced into captivity. Don later joined Ted Griffin at the Seattle Marine Aquarium. Both Don and Ted are credited for changing public perception of the "feared and deadly" killer whale. Don later worked as Director of Collection for SeaWorld during their expansion years, traveling all over the world humanely acquiring new species of animals never before seen by the general public. It is through Don's early work that we have a better understanding of the marine environment and the animals that live within it. Don was an exceptional man and will be especially missed by his daughter and grandson, Debra and Trevor Foster. To read more about Don Goldsberry please go to the Edward Memorial website after 3/1/14.
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Memories and Condolences
for Don Goldsberry
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3 Entries
Paul Dudley
April 16, 2019
I'm sorry I'm 5 years late with this but was thinking about my aquarium family today and came across Don's obituary. I'll always fondly remember Don for putting up with a 15 year old who had absolutely no idea what he was doing at the aquarium but believed in him anyway. That final night after the aquarium closed and everyone had been thrown into either the whale tank, the seal tank or off the side of the pier, Don gathered all of us soaking wet friends at the front of the aquarium and passed out the champagne (my first glass ever actually). As we stood there dripping on the floor with the adrenaline still pumping through us Don raised his glass and I'll never forget what he said because it was straight from his heart, "I treasure you people." Rest in peace Don and thank you for so many wonderful memories, and my very best to you Pat, Debbie and Jeff. Hope you all are doing great. - Paul Dudley
April 30, 2015
Dear Pat, Debbie, Jeff, etc.
I just came across news of Don's passing today while reminiscing on the internet. I was saddened to learn of Don's passing. I have many happy memories of the old aquarium and working with him, along with Pete, Snorky and the gang. My best to you.
Steve Dudley
July 13, 2014
Pat and Deb, My warm regards to you both. Tag
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