Donald Hodgin

10/17/1936 — 07/18/2016

From Kennewick, WA | Born in Kansas City, KS

Donald Hodgin

Donald R. Hodgin, son of the late Nellie Blanche Stout Hodgin and Raymond Joseph Hodgin, lost his courageous battle with Asbestosis on July 18, 2016, at home surrounded by his loving family. 

Don was born in Kansas City, Kansas on October 17, 1936.  He followed in the footsteps of his pipefitter welder father.  The Hodgin family “toured” the United States on construction jobs.  Don initially joined the Boise, Idaho Local as a member of the United Association of Plumbers, Fitters and Welders at age eighteen.  Don then became of member of Local 598 and served on the E-Board, taught welding at Columbia Basin College, and was a Business Agent for ten years.  His last job was at the Umatilla Disposal Facility, near Hermiston, Oregon.  He was proud to make an x-ray weld on the last day of work.  He was more proud of the beautiful knife from the pipefitters on the job inscribed “to a man who led by example”.  He recently received his 60 year pin.

Don is survived by his wife V Cathryn of 32 years,  daughters Teri Wilcox and husband Dean;  Kelly McKinney;  stepdaughters Brenda Bergstrom and husband John Caldwell,  Jennifer Scalley and husband David;  grandchildren  Tim Hodgin, Lydia and Ian Caldwell, and Griffin and Hanna Scalley.  Don is also survived by sister-in-law Denice Chappelle; nieces Melodie Hardy, Cheri DeRidder, Cathy Adkisson and husband Doug, Tami Tayamen and husband Steve, and Vikki Ballew and husband Rob.  He will be greatly missed by great nieces and great nephews, Kristen and husband Colby, Kelsey, John, Gina and husband Danny, Haylee, Josh, Donny and wife Jessica, as well as numerous other great nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; sister Betty Joanne Hardy and husband Bob; mother-in-law Cora A. and father-in-law Hyrum Vernon Chappelle, and brother-in-law/best friend Howard R. Chappelle.


Don was an amazing and well-loved man who was devoted to his family and friends. He cherished his daughters Teri and Kelly, as well as stepdaughters Brenda and Jennifer. There are many stories that prove him to be a devoted family man.

You were never a stranger long around Don. He was known for his quick wit and his story-telling abilities. He had a love for fast boats and cars. He and Cathryn enjoyed many adventures entering their cars in events sponsored by the Porsche Club of America and the Tri-Cities Cruisers Club. Don was a great teacher, had a kind heart, and overall was a very generous man. 

A celebration of his life will be held at Einan's Event Center, Richland, Washington on August 27, 2016 at 2 PM.  In lieu of flowers, a contribution to Hospice or the charity of your choice would be appreciated.

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