Donald J. Skyles

August 7, 1925 - September 5, 2011

Donald J. Skyles was born in Mountain Grove, Missouri, son to Obie & Laura (Baney) Skyles on August 7th, 1925. The family moved to California and followed the crop harvest to survive during the depression. His growing up years were in the southwest, where he developed a great appreciation for the desert. He loved exploring the old mines and ghost towns with his dog and buddies. He often recalled Elko, NV. In his later teens he went north with his family to Idaho. It was while living there that Don answered the call of his country and joined the Army Air Corps during WWII. Upon his return to the USA, he moved to Southern Oregon. Don’s employment included truck driving for Klamath County, and work in the logging industry. He continued truck driving for Lane County for various employers until an injury forced his retirement. The Lord blessed Don with four children, Jack, Terry, Linda, and Bruce (Mike). On January 15th, 1964 Don married Sharon Pruitt of Eugene, Oregon. This added children Marliene, Peter Lael, and LaRee to complete his family. Since that time, many grandchildren and great grandchildren have been added to his family. Don and Sharon moved to Newberg, Oregon in 1990, where they both found employment at George Fox College. In 2003 they moved into their current home in Dundee, Oregon. Throughout his lifetime, Don enjoyed a variety of interests. He loved table games. He liked to target practice. Don liked to play his guitar and enjoyed music. He enjoyed reading Christian literature. He liked old movies with John Wayne, Bogey, and Charles Bronson; watching them put that quirky smile on his face. He enjoyed going to Mickey-D’s for breakfast- make that a $1.00 sausage biscuit and coffee. Often he would take Sharon on an afternoon date for coffee and treat. Don enjoyed sitting on the back patio, watching the birds and appreciating the beauty of Sharon’s flowers. Spending time, one-on-one with others, especially discussing Biblical Truths was a great source of joy. He and Sharon attended the Pioneer Evangelical Church in Dayton, Oregon. On July 17th, 2011 Don was diagnosed with terminal cancer. He fought a valiant fight. Seven weeks later on the early morning of September 5th, 2011 Don went from the pain and cares of this world to be present with his Heavenly Father. Throughout the time of his illness Don so appreciated the rallying efforts of family and friends. They were his constant companions and support. God’s grace and strength never failed to comfort him and help him to finish the race that God had set before him. We will miss Don so very much, but Rejoice in the Knowledge that he has gone home to be with Jesus.