Obituary: Donald Roy Maddux (1957-2023)

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Donald Roy Maddux passed away on June 20, 2023. He was born in Corvallis, Oregon, on October 7, 1957, the third of five children of Robert (Bob) and Joy Maddux.

Don Maddux

Don grew up in Philomath and aside from a short time in Colorado, he spent his entire life in Philomath and camped in Elk City. He graduated from Philomath High School in 1975 where he excelled in cross-country, wrestling and track as well as advanced mathematics and slide trombone.

After high school, he worked at Northside Lumber. He was eventually lured away from the mill to work for Coast/Continental Crane and then Forslund Crane. In his position as a crane oiler he worked all over the West Coast doing cell tower installations, setting up turbines for wind farms, and many mill and construction site projects. One of the highlights of his crane career was working with the crane crew that moved Keiko the whale from his tank in Newport so that Keiko could be released from captivity.

Many say Don is a man of few words but if you really know him, he can talk your ear off. He is kind, stubborn, opinionated, has a wicked sense of humor, and many other inexplicable qualities that make him a unique person. He enjoyed camping, fishing, BBQing, and riding and playing on his motorcycles.

There are men who come into our lives and make a lasting impression on our hearts. Don was one of those men, his loss is sorely felt by many.

He is survived by his partner Rebecca Gutbrod, daughter Christina Serven of Eddyville, grandson Ayden Williams of Eddyville, and his dog Wrennie. He is also survived by his brother Tom Maddux – Portland, and sisters Darlene Rose (Jim) – Philomath, Peggy Krause (John) – Corvallis, and Ruth Post (Henry) – Philomath. Also surviving are his five nieces and nephews who adored their Uncle Donny and several great nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 5th at the Philomath Frolic Rodeo Grounds from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. Email [email protected] for more information.

Gifts in Don’s memory may be made to the SafeHaven Humane Society, 32220 Old Hwy 34, Tangent OR 97389.

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