Don Melvin Whelden's Obituary
Don Melvin Whelden, 94, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025, in Gladstone, Oregon.
Born on June 25, 1931 in Oregon City, Oregon to Walter and Mary Whelden, Don faced life’s challenges with resilience from an early age. At just 13 years old, he began working as a newspaper delivery boy for the Oregon City Enterprise. His strong work ethic carried him through a long and dedicated career at the Safeway Bakery in Clackamas, where he worked from 1960 until his retirement in 1995.
Don served in the Army during the Korean War and endured the hardship of being a Prisoner of War in North Korea from July 27 to September 28, 1950. His strength and perseverance during that time remained a testament to his character throughout his life.
On July 4, 1972, Don was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. He was deeply committed to his faith and known for being zealous in his ministry work.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 70 years, Barbara Whelden; daughters Suzanne Whelden and Pamela Whelden; son Richard Whelden and wife Margie Whelden; grandchildren Aimee Anderson, Jennifer Sudar, Matthew Whelden, Levi Winkler, Dane Clancy, and Jacob Wheeler; and great-granddaughters Julia Munro, Paige Chavez, and Lauren Pierce-Whelden.
Don will be remembered for his happy spirit, easy-going nature, and deep love for his family and friends. His legacy of strength, faith, and kindness will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Don loved God’s promise of future life in paradise on this earth and now we look forward to welcoming him back during the promised resurrection of the dead. No more will he remember the horrors of war, but he and all mankind will then enjoy peace on this planet like we’ve never known before, “a world ruled by justice and love.”
A memorial will be held for him on Saturday September 13, 2025 at 1:00 pm at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 17474 SE Rose Street, Milwaukie, OR 97267.
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