Don Wesley AXWORTHY 1921 - 2003 Born in Redlands, California, on May 12, 1921. Don passed away on May 1, 2003, in Bozeman, Montana, while visiting dear family friends. The eldest son of Rev. Cecil T. and Nan Axworthy, Don grew up in Northern California. He joined the Army Air Corps during WWII and served in the South Pacific. Following his service, he attended and graduated from Washington State College. On June 11, 1948, he married Helen Marie Garner in Spokane, Washington. Together they raised three sons, Christopher, Donald & Charles. Don went to work for Welder's Supply in Seattle, eventually becoming the co-owner of the company in the mid 1960's. He served nationally as the President of the National Welding Society of America. Don eventually sold the company and retired in 1988. Don and Helen were enthusiastic travelers, completing a pair of round-the-world journeys. They also enjoyed golf and tennis, playing both into their 70's. As a couple, they were well-loved for their generosity and the joy they took hosting events among their many friends and their extended family. Their humor and good will were infectious. They also loved music and art, supporting both the Seattle Symphony and the Seattle Art Museum. Don and Helen were deeply religious people, affiliated for many years with Seattle First Baptist Church and eventually joining First Free Methodist Church. Following Helen's death in 2001, Don continued to travel and visit friends and family across the country. He is survived by his children; Chris and wife Susan and grandchildren Rebecca and Caleb of Boston; Donald and wife Tina and grandchildren Taylor and Chris of Seattle; Charles of Los Angeles; and brother Robert of Oklahoma City. A Memorial Service will be held Friday at 3:30 p.m. at Evergreen-Washelli, 11111 Aurora Ave. N., Seattle, WA. 98133. Viewing will be Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Axworthy Memorial Fund at First Free Methodist Church, 3200 Third Ave. West, Seattle, WA. 98119. Published in print on 5/6/2003. Seattle Times