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Donald MONSON Obituary
Donald Lloyd Monson, a legendary coach, devoted husband, and beloved figure in Northwest basketball, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2025, at the age of 92, faithfully serving the Lord throughout his life.
Don will be most remembered for his humility, quick wit, fierce competitiveness and love for his faith, family, players and friends. He mentored countless young men and brought communities together. Don found great joy in simple pleasures – especially time spent at Priest Lake, where he fished, shared laughs, relaxed with friends and family, and enjoyed a few cold "Buds" over more than 60 cherished summers.
Don enjoyed a long decorated athletic and coaching career filled with many honors and accomplishments.
Beyond the court, Don was a family man first. He is survived by his devoted wife of 68 years, Deanna Monson, and their loving family: Daughter, Dana Graff (Steve) of Pasco, WA and their children Samantha, Grady, MacDaniel, Lucas (Maddie) and their daughter, Don's great-granddaughter, Lyla; Son, Dan Monson (Darci) of Spokane, WA and their children MicGuire, Mollie, Maddox, and McKenna; Daughter, Darla Gilbert (Gary) of Augusta, GA and their children Jake, Tucker and Gracyn.
Don is also survived by his sisters, Virginia (Norm) of Spokane, WA, and Maxine (Dave) of Renton, WA; his brothers-in-law, Gail Strait (Joan) of Tacoma, WA, and Kevin Strait (Debbie) of Spokane, WA; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar "Swede" and Lillian Monson; his brother, Chuck Monson (Keva); and his in-laws, Burton and Anna Strait.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Spokane, WA, with a reception following at Gonzaga University's McCarthey Athletic Center.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Don's honor to: Ronald McDonald House of Spokane, University of Idaho Athletics, Eastern Washington University Men's Basketball, or any charity of choice. To leave condolences for the family and view an in-depth accounting of Don's legacy, visit www.hennesseyfh.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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2 Entries
Jeff Mancheni
Yesterday
I will always remember coach as kind, considerate and very dedicated to family and to the countless number of people he helped. In the 35+ years that I knew Don, I will always remember the time spent in the various gyms and especially the times with he and Jud at the Zag games. Deanna, you are truly a saint, your support and love of your husband was amazing! The pressure that is involved with the level of coaching is not only felt by the coaches but by the families as well. You are truly remarkable and have supported not only Don, but the entire family in their endeavors. Coach will be missed by all and loved by many! Gone but most assuredly never forgotten, you can be assured that he, jud and Fitz are drawing up plays on napkins at the Pearly Gates Bar! RIP COACH MONSON!
Gary Lindeblad
October 31, 2025
What an incredible, wonderful man. Don was so very proud of his wife and family. They were always first in his heart. It has been an honor to know him and call him a friend. He left a legacy that very few people can match. My heartfelt condolences to family. Thank you for sharing his wit, his wisdom and his personality with thousands and thousands of people.
Gary Lindeblad
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