Obituary of Donald Neil Yingling

Longtime Vancouver resident Don Yingling died unexpectedly in the early morning hours of Oct 23, 2021. Don and his twin sister Dolores were born in Tacoma, but raised and educated in Yakima. Don live a full and meaningful life of more than 90 years. He modeled the virtues of hard work and selfless service to his country, family, friends and community. After graduation from Yakima High School, Don enlisted in the US Air Force where he served 32 years. He was a veteran of both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. After retiring from military service as a Senior Master Sergeant, he and his first wife, Janice, and their four children eventually settled in Vancouver where Don had a varied and interesting career. He worked for AMF selling bowling equipment. He briefly owned and operated a bowling alley in Port Townsend. He was a store manager for Mervyn's. He sold cabinets for DeWils Fine Cabinetry. He bought and sold local real estate. Once fully retired, Don volunteered through AARP to prepare income taxes for others. He became involved in city governance, running for a seat on the Vancouver City Council and working on various City Council campaigns. He was a devoted father and husband. Don was predeceased by his first wife, Janice, by his sister, Dolores; and his brother, Richard; by his eldest son, Terry; and his son-in-law, Frank. He is survived by his daughter-in-law, Sue; his daughters, Sharon and Debra; his son, Neil; and daughter-in-law, Christie. He is also survived by his second wife, Betty; and her daughter, Margie; and son-in-law, Tom; and her son, Roy. He has six grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. A Celebration of Life for Don will be held at The Church of the Good Shepherd on the corner of Ellsworth and McGillivray in Vancouver on Sunday, Nov. 14 at 2 pm. A reception will follow. Masks are required.