BRETEY, Donald W.

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ August 28, 2008 Donald W. Bretey, 63, of Taylor died Monday afternoon Aug. 25, 2008, at RTA Hospice and Palliative Care in Lakeside. Donald was born Jan. 22, 1945, in Casper, Wyo., to the late Donald Bretey and Guelda (Wolfe) Bretey. He received his high school diploma from the Wyoming school system. Donald moved to Arizona about 20 years ago from Colorado. He worked as a mechanic throughout his life and was known as a skilled "tinker," as he could fix or rebuild just about any type of engine or motor. This ol' cowboy was so skilled in the garage, he actually made his own tools. Donald also loved race car driving and thoroughly enjoyed being in the outdoors where he was known by his family and friends as a master chef. In fact, his final resting place will be in one of his old antique dutch ovens. Donald was a good neighbor who enjoyed visits from everyone. He was ever willing to lend his "know-how" to just about anyone who needed it. It is common knowledge amongst his neighbors that anyone and everyone was welcome to his garage whenever they saw his shop door open. His sense of humor, hospitality and friendship will truly be missed by all who knew him. Donald is survived by his longtime companion of 16 years, Virginia A. Stordock of Taylor; mother Guelda Bretey of Port Orchard, Wash.; daughter Fawn Dee (Marvin) Hackworth of Gillette, Wyo.; grandchildren Casey Cole (Jon) Alexander of Casper, Wyo., Tylor Ray Hackworth of Gillette, Wyo., and Amanda Bretey of Denver, Colo.; great-grandchild Jameson Hayes of Casper, Wyo.; brothers Bob (Cheryl) Bretey of Port Orchard, Wash., Larry (Marilyn) Bretey of Chugiak, Alaska; sister Linda (Steve) Lyczewski of Great Falls, Mo.; nephews Nick Bretey of Port Orchard, Wash., Jake Bretey of Chugiak, Alaska, and Darren Bretey; and nieces Jessie Bretey of Port Orchard, Wash., Kim (Chris) Kennedy of Minot, N.D., and Sara. In keeping with Donald's wishes, private services will be held at a later date. Owens Mortuary of Snowflake handled the arrangements. For those who have special memories and would like to send private condolences or sign an online guest book, visit www.owensmortuary.com.