Donald Edmond Buckley

Donald Edmond Buckley, 86, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and avid outdoorsman, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2025, near his home in Birch Bay, Washington, with his beloved wife Kathleen at his side. Born and raised in the mountains of Colorado, Donald carried a lifelong love of the outdoors—steelhead fishing, gold prospecting, and metal detecting were among his greatest joys. He shared a deep and enduring love with Kathleen for more than 61 years.

Donald was born January 17, 1939, and raised in Silverplume, Colorado, the second of four children of the late Robert E, and Donna Buckley. He treasured his mountain roots and frequently recounted family history and memories from Silverplume.

Donald served honorably in the Air National Guard and went on to a career in customer service with United Airlines, where he met the love of his life, Kathleen, who at the time worked as a stewardess. After marrying, they briefly lived in Chicago before making their home in Washington State, where they raised two sons, Chris and Bruce. Both sons remain in Washington with their families. Donald was proud to retire early from United Airlines in his mid fifties, and he and Kathleen spent many happy years exploring the country in their RV, visiting family and longtime friends.

Like his father before him, Donald loved baseball and passed that passion down through his family. He shared stories and watched games with his sons, grandchildren, and other loved ones, kindling a lasting appreciation for the sport in those closest to him.

Donald is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen; his sons Chris and Bruce; his brother Bobby and sister Sheila; and by a multitude of grandchildren and great grandchildren who brought him great joy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Donna Buckley, and his older brother Gary.

Donald was a man of quiet strength, generous spirit, and a ready smile. He took great pride in his family’s ancestry, heritage, and history from Silverplume, and he loved teaching his family the small pleasures of the outdoors. He often spoke proudly of his love for Kathleen—her companionship and faithfulness were the center of his life for more than six decades.

A funeral mass is planned for Friday, March 20th, 2026 at Church of the Assumption (2116 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham, WA) at 10:30am, with a reception to take place immediately following. The family welcomes memories, stories, and photographs to share.

It comforts the family to imagine Donald on his next great adventure—walking streets of gold nuggets, with the memory of home and family forever in his heart.