Don Reinhardt

Donald Leroy Reinhardt (84), born November 3, 1938, in Miles City, Montana, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2023, in Wenatchee, WA. After a courageous battle with diabetes and heart disease. Graduating from WaHi in Walla Walla, WA, Don began his career in the union as a dedicated hod carrier, carrying bricks and blocks. With time and unwavering dedication, he ascended to the role of Business Manager, overseeing others in their brick and block endeavors. Don's remarkable career spanned over 60 years with L.I.U.N.A. as the Laborer/Business Agent at Locals 348 and 292. Don is survived by his beloved soulmate and wife, Rita, who resides in their cherished home in Chelan, WA. They were just five days shy of celebrating 43 years of marriage and were each other's everything. Their journey began when they met through Local 348 in Pasco, WA, where Don held a position of authority as the boss, and Rita worked as his secretary. They often joked that Rita married the boss...and got fired. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Central Washington Laborers Retiree Council, an organization that brought people together through annual events that were highly anticipated by all. A special tradition at their holiday potlucks was Don's heartfelt hand-crafted gifts, meticulously made and wrapped by his own hands. Additionally, he generously created the raffle prizes for the Laborer’s summer picnics hosted by the Retiree Council, ensuring funding for these memorable gatherings. Don's hope was that the Retiree Council, whose members he deeply cared about, will continue on, while preserving its traditions and embracing new ones yet to unfold. Don possessed an extraordinary range of skills; from remodeling houses and crafting furniture to constructing small wooden boats for his stepdaughter's shop in Astoria. Always wearing his outfit of choice, blue jeans and a white t-shirt, he made it a point to pass on his knowledge and skills to younger family members. You could often find him with a Circle Find book in his hands. It saddens us that he is missing Father's Day this year, as he was eagerly looking forward to indulging in his daughter Donna's famous homemade cinnamon rolls. Don was the son of Donald and Gladys (Mendenhall) Reinhardt. He is also survived by his loving sister, Karla Larson, of Hillsboro, OR, and his younger brother, Joe Reinhardt, of Renton, WA. He is preceded in death by four brothers, as well as three sisters. His memory will forever be cherished by his children: Donna Baumgartner, Darrell Reinhardt, Sally and Eyke Heppner, Douglas Reinhardt, Liza and Tony Picariello, Stacey Stahl and Jeff Boyce, Amy Martin and Steve Martin. Don also leaves behind 9 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, with one watching over them from heaven. In honor of Don's spirit and values, the family kindly requests that instead of flowers or donations, you extend kindness and support to one another. This act of helping others would truly resonate with Don's generous nature. May his soul find eternal peace, and may his memory continue to inspire acts of love and unity among us all.

Don Reinhardt

November 3, 1938 - June 9, 2023