Our beloved father, Donald, passed away March 19, 2008 at Carson Tahoe Regional Medical Center surrounded by his family.
Don was one of four children born to Edward and Agnes Way of San Jose, Calif. Brother, Bob Way and sister, Beverly Roy and stepsister, Ruth Pierman preceded him in death and he is survived by his sister Janet Newman and stepsister Virginia Gabriel.
During World War II, at the age of 17, he joined the Navy and proudly served his country in the South Pacific. In 1946, he married his junior high school sweetheart, Virginia Harper. Don started a 34-year career in law enforcement, which included serving on the Los Gatos Police force, Santa Clara County Sheriff's Department and State of Nevada Parole and Probation Department, where he retired as a Senior Officer. He was also a member of the Masonic and Elks Lodge. Don was proud of the time that he spent in the service of his country and in service to the communities in which he lived and instilled this pride in his family.
Don lived out his retirement in Carson City, which he fondly referred to as God's country. Don will always be remembered for his generosity, his sense of humor, quick wit and total love for his family. Don was loved by many and will be deeply missed.
Our beloved mother, Virginia, passed away on March 24, 2008 at Carson Tahoe Regional Medical Center. She was the youngest of eleven children born to Agnes and Wesley Harper of San Jose, Calif.
Virginia was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, Carl, Elmer and Glen Harper and three sisters, Helen Gelston, Velma Cato and Zelma Avakian.
She is survived by her four brothers, Grady, Jack, Roland and Helton Harper.
Don and Virginia are survived by their daughter, Sandra DeLise (Tony), and sons, Richard Way and Jim Way (Cookie); grandchildren, Tiffany Kleine, Michael Downs, Jason and Christopher Way; six great-grandchildren; and numerous relatives.
Our beautiful mother lived through 50 years of pain from the debilitating effects of rheumatoid arthritis with courage, grace, and selflessness, never complaining. Her strength was an inspiration to all who knew her. Her sweet temperament, sense of humor and quick wit were a joy. Nothing was more important to Virginia than her family, especially her beloved husband, Don, of 61 years. Virginia was loved by many and will be deeply missed.
No funeral is planned, but a celebration of life for Don and Virginia will be announced at a later date.
Arrangements were made by Walton's Chapel of the Valley. The family desires that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Virginia's honor to the Arthritis Foundation.
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