DONNA MARIE MATTAIR June 18, 1922 - December 27, 2014

Donna was born in Spokane, WA to Percy and Velma Garlough. As an only child, Donna was very quiet. She loved reading books, playing jacks, and pretend games with her paper dolls. She remembered her favorite dog, Tiny, whom she used to dress in doll clothes and take on buggy rides. She loved to go on train rides with her parents to Seattle each summer. Music was always very important to her. Her first piano lesson was at the age of six, and she continued her passion of music throughout her life.  

Donna graduated from North Central High school in Spokane, WA, and attended Eastern Washington College for one year before she enlisted in the Navy.  During her three years of military service, Yeoman First Class, Donna met the love of her life, Chuck Mattair. They were pen pals for eighteen months before officially meeting each other. Finally, they had their first date, fell in love, and were married June 26, 1946. Chuck Winsomely told people that his wife “outranked” him, but married him anyway.     

In 1958, the young Mattair family moved from Spokane to Kennewick. By that time they had their two children, Julie age 11, and Steve age 5.  Donna was a wonderful mother and homemaker. She later worked as a librarian at Kennewick High School. She also had the privilege of being the organist at First Presbyterian church for 20 years. She continued using her gift of music and played hymns for worship services each week where she lived.

One of Donna’s greatest joys in life was being a grandparent. She and Chuck were the biggest fans of their grandsons. Rarely did they miss a game. From Grid Kids football through high school athletics, they proudly cheered for their ’boys’.

Donna is survived by her daughter, Julie (Bob) Dowle; her son, Steve (Carol) Mattair; grandsons: Randy (Karen) Rockne, Tyler (Jackie) and Travis; and “step” great-granddaughter, Payten.

There will be a celebration of Donna’s life on Saturday, January 3, 2015 at 2:00 at First Presbyterian Church; 2001 W. Kennewick Ave., Kennewick, WA, followed by a brief reception at the church.  

The family is appreciative to the staff at The Manor at Canyon Lakes for the kindness they showed to Donna in the years she lived there.; also, to Pastor Rob Hagan and staff for handling the service and showing much love and compassion to the Mattair and Dowle families.

   “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.”

    2 Timothy 4:7