Baker City, Oregon
Don Marion Dima, 67, of Baker City, died July 9, 2006, in the Wallowa Mountains.
His graveside funeral will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Eagle Valley Cemetery in Richland. Pastor Gordon Bond of the Richland Christian Church will officiate.
He was born on Dec. 17, 1938, at Morgan Creek on the Snake River to John and Eunice Dima. As a young child, he lived with his parents, older sisters and brother on the Snake River. After various moves, the family settled in Baker Valley on Pocahontas Road. These two places are where Don’s fondest memories were created.
He lived in Baker County all of his life, working first in road construction and then as a log truck driver. He eventually starting driving as a long-haul carrier both cross-country and regionally.
He married his wife, Wanda, on July 29, 1995, at Baker City. He enjoyed sharing his love of the mountains with friends and family by taking them on interesting — and sometimes exciting — excursions. His knowledge of the mountains and hunting developed into many entertaining conversations.
He also enjoyed traveling with Wanda and discovering new and fun things to do. Acting on the romantic side of his character, it gave him great pleasure to send flowers or to find the right gift.
He took extra effort to make time and to provide for his children, to guide and direct their lives, to teach and to show them new places. He was always there to listen and to give his opinion. His guidance will be deeply missed.
Don was happiest when surrounded by friends and family. He was always there to help out, to visit, to entertain and placed great importance on hospitality.
Survivors include his wife, Wanda; two children, Linda DeRoest of Baker City and John W. Dima of Weston; Wanda’s children, Sandy Hulen and her husband, Darrell, of Bend, Brian Fosnaugh of Portland and six stepchildren; grandchildren, Josh Rush, Nick Rush, Chris Rush, Amber Dima, Ashley Dima, Dennis Dima and Jett Hulen; three great-grandchildren; a sister, Audrey Richmond of Baker City; and many close friends and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Eunice Dima; a sister, Laura Crapo; and a brother, John Dima.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice through Coles Funeral Home, 1950 Place St., Baker City, OR 97814.
Used with permission from: Baker City Herald, Baker City, Oregon, July 14, 2006
Transcribed by: Belva Ticknor