Donald David Swisher

Donald David Swisher

Donald David Swisher of McKinleyville passed away November 5, 2008, at the age of 80. Don served in the merchant marines. He was involved in the boy Scouts of America when his sons were young. He was a member of the Kiwanis club and numerous businesses. He was instrumental in starting Mad River Community Hospital after starting and operating Arcata-Mad River Ambulance over 40 years. He headed the Trinity Hospital Action Committee, and was on the Mad River Hospital board for many years. After retirement, he served on the Hospitals Citizens health advisory board. Don was the first EMT instructor in Humboldt County, providing classes for law enforcement, firefighters, and medical personnel form Orick to Garberville. Don owned and operated Diamond Glass and upholstery in Arcata for over 30 years. He served numerous terms on the Humboldt County Grand Jury, with two terms as foreman. After retirement, he and Mom loved to travel in their RV. He loved to Golf and spend time with his golf buddies at Beau Pre Golf Course. He enjoyed playing the slot machines at Cher-ae Heights Casino (with his two Favorite Blondes). Don loved his family and was very thankful to live long enough to spend time with his grandchildren and 2 great grandsons. He was will be missed by his family and his special friends Mary Johnson and Dot Bones, and his "family" at the cher-ae Heights Casino, and friends and neighbors at Ocean West senior Park. Don will always be remembered for his unique sense of humor and generous heart.

Don is survived by his sons, David Swisher and his wife Phyllis of Eureka, Tom Swisher of McKinleyville; daughter, Judy Swisher and her husband Eric Strawn of Arcata; grandchildren, Sara Leachman and her husband Patrick of Anderson, CA, Andrew Reddish of Arcata, and Tom Swisher of Arcata; great grandchildren, Aden and Carter Leachman of Anderson, CA. Don has numerous nieces and nephews in Alaska and California.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Keath and Ferne Swisher; brothers, Mike and Malcom; sister, Pat Bailey; and Don’s wife of 61 years, Christine earlier this year.

A memorial service will be held for both Don and Chris on Saturday November 15, 2008, at the D Street Community Center in Arcata form 3:00pm-5:00pm. Please join the family to celebrate Don and Christine’s life. Don’s family would like to thank Visiting Angels, Arcata Mad River Ambulance, the staff at Mad River Hospital, Dr. Stephen Clark, Apria Healthcare, Lima’s Pharmacy in McKinleyville, and Timber Ridge Assisted Living for their support, kindness and compassionate care of our father.

Arrangements are under the care of Paul’s Chapel in Arcata.

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