Obituary of Donald Charles Heacock

Donald Charles Heacock March 20, 1937 – October 7, 2015 We'll see you at the hunting grounds and fishing holes in heaven. We'll miss your smile and the mischievous twinkle in your eyes. Don Heacock of Camas, WA, died October 7, surrounded by family. Three weeks after his successful heart surgery, he died of complications from a severe infection. Born in South Dakota on the first day of spring in 1937, and raised in St. Helens, OR, Don learned early how to live off the land. Hunting tips and fishing techniques from his dad and uncles were practiced early and often. Don took everything he learned and reveled in teaching others, especially his family and closest friends in Camas. He knew every hook-tying secret, how to coax a fish to take the bait, and just where a beautiful buck would be at "O dark thirty." Don led teams in the CZ paper mill to set production records in cut stock. Family camping trips helped pass on the secrets of living off the land, with shelves stocked with mushrooms, salsa, jams, smoked salmon and more. Everyone who came to the house was welcomed with a hug, and didn't leave without a cheer of "To your very good health." For everyone who can out-cast their fellow fisherman, coax more living out of every day, or learned more about the outdoors, cheers to Don. Don is survived by his wife, Claudia and his children and families, Steve & Sally Heacock, Greg Heacock & Louise Culham Phoebe, Ellen, Thomas; Terry & James Tucker Deena, Michael, Renae, Jacob, Lisa; Suzanne & Dean Chandler Alan, Casey; his sisters Esther Dick Niece and Pat Heacock Susan. A vigil service will be held on Friday, Oct 16, at 7 PM at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Camas. A funeral Mass will follow on Saturday, Oct 17 at 10 AM at St. Thomas Catholic Church. Interment will follow at the Camas Cemetery. Straub's Funeral Home & Columbia River Cremation in Camas is in charge of the arrangements. Donations can be made to Father Justus Kabale Education Fund PO Box 990, Washougal, WA 98671. To send condolences or to sign the online guestbook please visit www.straubsfuneralhome.com.