Obituary of Donald Wolph

Donald David Wolph Donald David Wolph died on September 7th, 2009, at the age of 78. He was born March 15, 1931 to John and Stella Wolph and graduated from Franklin High School(’49)in Seattle. Job opportunities began young with the family owned hobby store on Rainier Avenue. They were known for creating model railroads. From his cousin’s moving company, truck driving and spice deliveries, he ventured onto Terminal Manager for Northland Marine overseeing the loading of 40 foot tracker trailers on barges, and Alaska Steamship loading tug boats as a dispatcher. Company changes took him south to Portland and later, Sacramento to deliver Boyd Coffee and spices and repair equipment. A second marriage to Vivian “Biz” took place on December 4, 1961 and she was the love of his life for 43 years. Don’s retirement years were spent in Frutia, Colorado near Biz’s family until her death in August ’05. Volunteering for the Grey Gourmet (meals for seniors) and RSVP kept them active. He drove a school bus during a shortage of drivers. In September ‘05, Don moved to Olympia to once again be near his children from his first marriage. Don was a socially out going man fostering participation. He enjoyed the local talent and opportunities to get out in the community. He was raised a Catholic and converted to the Lutheran faith when he raised his children. He had fond memories of the Fruita Christian Church, the last church he and Biz attended. His melodious voice was an adjunct to any choir and recently the piano man couldn’t find a tune he didn’t know. He is survived by his children, Linda Sapp, Don F. Wolph (Teresa), and Tim Wolph (Lisa) of Olympia, and Bonnie Ramsey (Grover) of Marysville; Twelve grandchildren: Misty, Tiffany, Klint, Grover Jr. and Fred Ramsey; Jagger and Hunter Sapp; Don, Sherri and Christina Wolph; Heidi, Brian, and Jamie Wolph; six great-grandchildren; and his step-daughter June Frink (Les died in ’07) of Texas and her children Bruce Frink of Lake Stevens and Gail Dujardin of Texas. He was preceded in death by a brother and sister. In lieu of flowers, listen all around for those with fabulous voices. Also, tell everyone about the need to donate exercise bikes to ensure that every retirement, nursing home, and memory care center has one. He enjoyed pedaling to control his diabetes. We’d like to thank all of the staff and physicians who have been involved in his care. To leave a condolence for the family, click on View Guestbook below: