With heartfelt sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Donald Puckett, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who left this world on June 1, 2025, in Prineville, Oregon at the age of 73. Donald passed away due to natural causes, surrounded by family and love—just as he had lived his life.

Born on September 26, 1951, in Prineville, Donald was a true son of Oregon, shaped by the land, people, and values of his close-knit community. The son of Lester “Red” Puckett and Leona Puckett, Don grew up working hard and playing harder, carrying a deep respect for tradition, family, and the simple joys of life.

Don’s life was full and rich in ways that truly matter. In 1972, he met Susan, the woman who would become his best friend and devoted partner in all of life’s adventures. Their love story began at a rodeo dance—where Don, ever the charmer, won Susan’s heart with a mix of cowboy charm and sincerity. They were married in 1977, and together they built a life grounded in love, laughter, and a deep commitment to family.

He was the proud father of two daughters:

• Barbara Stevenson, of Prineville, Oregon (married to Darron Stevenson)

• Suzanna McClung, of Sisters, Oregon

His daughters were the lights of his life, and he found immense pride and joy in watching them grow into strong, compassionate women. He was also a loving grandfather to four grandchildren and a doting great-grandfather to two great-grandchildren, each of whom brought an extra sparkle to his already bright world.

Donald is also survived by his sister Beverly Barr of Molalla, Oregon, and many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family who will miss him dearly.

Don’s professional life was as diverse as his interests. After graduating from high school, he began working at the local lumber mills and spent time helping on the family ranches—deepening his connection to the land and his community. In his younger years, he had a thrill for bull riding, embracing life with courage and grit.

Later, he became a volunteer firefighter, answering the call to serve and protect his neighbors. His final working years were spent as a school janitor after relocating to Sisters, Oregon—a role in which he quietly became a hero to many children and staff, always ready with a helping hand or a kind word.

Don’s work life, however, never defined him as much as his heart did. He was a man of unwavering generosity and humility. Whether it was stopping to help a stranger with a flat tire, lending a hand on a neighbor’s ranch, or showing up to support a friend in need, Don lived by example—always kind, always dependable, and always sincere.

In his free time, Don was an adventurer at heart. He loved camping in the mountains, riding quads across the high desert, reading Western novels, and traveling the country with Susan and his family in tow. These adventures were often punctuated by belly laughs, stories passed down through generations, and memories made around campfires.

His sense of humor was unforgettable—a blend of dry wit and clever timing that could lighten the heaviest moments. People gravitated toward Don because he made life feel easier, warmer, and more joyful.

As we mourn Don’s passing, we also celebrate a life that touched so many. Though his physical presence is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in the values he passed down, the stories he told, and the love he gave so freely. He now joins his parents and loved ones in eternal rest—his journey here complete, but his memory eternal.

A Celebration of Life

A celebration of Don’s life will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 1:00 PM at what he lovingly called “Puckett’s Park”—the backyard of his daughter Barbara’s home, located at 2244 Southeast Paulina Highway, Prineville, Oregon.

Family, friends, and community members are welcome to join in honoring Don’s legacy. Come as you are—cowboy boots, jeans, and stories in hand—as we gather in love and laughter to remember the man who gave us both so freely.

Final Thoughts

Donald Puckett, you were the kind of man who didn’t just pass through life—you lived it fully, loved deeply, and left a mark that time will not erase. You’ll forever be missed, fondly remembered, and dearly cherished. Rest in peace, cowboy. Your trail now leads to greener pastures.