Donald Eugene Pray December 4, 1930 - May 16, 2014

Born December 4, 1930... Risen peacefully, surrounded by his family to his beautiful bride Bea and Savior May 16, 2014.

If you asked Don what his name was, he would respond by asking you, "Well, why don't you Pray about it?" And if you would ask him "How are you feeling today Don?" He just might say "With my hands" with a grin. Yes, Donald Pray was quite the kidder!

Born in Wichita, Kansas and growing up on the family farm, Don was truly the one who did get up at four in the morning to milk the cows, deliver the milk, and other farm chores, all before walking miles to school ... and yes even through the snow! It was on the farm that he became very handy and creative with tools and farm equipment, including endless repairs. If there was not a tool for the job at hand he created one. He became very ingenious in his tinkering abilities all throughout life, amazing his kids and grandkids to their delight.

Don lived his first 20 years on the Wichita farm. In 1950 he flew the coop and headed to sunny California to attend Biola University in Los Angeles. It was there he met the love of his life, a little spitfire named Bea (Tessie). Within his first few weeks there, and on their second date, Don summoned up his courage and asked Bea for her hand in marriage! Don didn't want to let this Beauty get away! Oh ... and she did say yes!

Don was hired for his first job as a salesman for Sears in El Monte, California, selling sewing machines. With his natural ability in sales and ease with people, Don began his 30-year career with Sears. Sears took notice of his accomplishments and promoted him to their new Sears Tower Building in Chicago in 1967. He worked as a national buyer for several product lines. Don was well-known there for his many pranks in the office, especially all the bets he won with his two-sided nickels! Never a dull moment in his office!

Soon after retiring, Don and his lovely Bea headed west to Sisters to be close to all of his children and grandchildren.

One of his frequent sayings in life was "If you don't have family, you don't have anything." Family was his greatest joy and love.

Along with Bea, they were our greatest cheerleaders and supporters in life, never to miss a grandchild's game of soccer, basketball, baseball, a play, concert or any other special event.

We his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren are the ones who have been truly blessed by his sacrificial love and giving heart. His love and care also extended to his friends, neighbors, and to all at the Senior Center in Sisters where he attended and served for many years.

He enjoyed driving the senior van, bingo, helping with special events, but mostly I think he enjoyed making people laugh.

Don and Bea enjoyed traveling with their friends on bus tours, cruises, and cross-country trips with family.

In addition and most importantly, Don and Bea loved the fellowship and serving at Sisters Community Church and their Lord for over 20 years.

Don was married to his inseparable bride for 60 years and had the comfort of her hand over his heart every night as they slept.

Donald's living family are his three children, Donald K. Pray and wife Corinne; Jan Pray; Jenny Denzer and husband Terry, all of Sisters. Grandchildren Shawn and wife Robbie Pray; Chere' Pray; Nikki and husband Jason Jensen; Brett Pray; Geoff and Jennifer Houk; Lucas and Aubrey Denzer. Great-grandchildren Brody, Colton, Sadee, Alyssa, Darian and Charlie. Brother Ira of Wichita, Kansas. Sister-in-law Mini Kent of Newport Beach, California.

Donald is celebrating in Heaven with his wife, Bea; son, Dennis; parents, Fern and Lyle Pray; sister-in-law Goldie Pray; brother-in-law George Kent; and nephew Willie Kent.

We love you, Dad, with immeasurable love. Thank you for showing us its definition in action and through your faith in the Lord. We will see you soon at "The Banquet" with Mom!

A private family celebration of his life will be held June 7 in Sisters.