DONALD "Doc" CASPERSON

Donald "Doc" Casperson, age 77, passed away peacefully of pneumonia at St Joseph's Hospital in Bellingham, WA, on June 23, 2017, with his caring wife, Elaine, and adoring daughter, Leslie, by his side. Don and Elaine moved to Lynden, WA in January of 2016, to be closer to Leslie and her family who live in Abbotsford, BC. He was a loving and devoted husband, father and papa. Don was born and raised in Rochester, NY, the only son of George and Louise. Don received an athletic scholarship to Ohio Wesleyan University where he played football, basketball, and baseball. After graduation, he taught and coached in Dayton, OH. It was a blind date that brought Elaine into his life, and six months later they were married. This year they celebrated their fiftieth anniversary. After receiving his Masters degree at Xavier University, he went on to get his Doctorate at Indiana University. In 1970, Don was hired as an Assistant Professor at California State University, Fresno, teaching health science where he stayed for 13 rewarding years. Their daughter Leslie was born in 1971, and he was an involved, supportive and proud dad. The Caspersons were diehard Bulldog fans. Don's interest in the wine and liquor business began in the late 1970s. This interest evolved into the opening of Old Doc's Discount Liquor with a special emphasis on good wines. During the 34 years in business, he assisted many customers and developed lasting friendships. Over the years, he supported many community organizations. When declining health made it necessary for his retirement, the two stores closed in December of 2013. He loved being a supporter of Elaine's Sweet Adeline chorus and quartets. But above all, family meant the most to him. Moving to Lynden made it possible to see his amazing daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren regularly, which brought him unending joy. Having been bedridden since 2014, Don never lost his will to live or his sense of humor. He was grateful to God for each and every day and to Elaine for caring for him. He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Elaine; daughter, Leslie Friesen and husband Cameron; precious grandchildren, Connor and Julia; his "favorite" and only sister, Mary Lou Casperson of Fresno; brothers and sisters-in-law; cousins; nieces; nephews; and so many dear friends near and far. His family is extremely grateful for the care he received from Dr. Malcolm Ghazal (dec); Dr. Patrick Golden; Dr Roy Kroeker; Dr. Ed Hanks; Dr. Robert Libke; St. Agnes Home Health Care; Fr. Dave Norris; and Deacon John Supino at St. Paul Newman Catholic Center in Fresno. Thanks also to Peace Health doctors and Signature Home Health in Bellingham, WA. There will be a Celebration of Don's Life held on the patio at the Elbow Room in Fig Garden Village, on Saturday, August 26, 2017, at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Don's name may be made to Ag One for a Fresno State Enology Student Scholarship, at 2910 E. Barstow Ave., Fresno, CA 93740; or to the donor's favorite charity.