Donald D. Deatherage

Donald D. Deatherage, age 86, of Salina, KS, passed away Wednesday, June 30, 2021, at Salina Regional Health Center. Donald was born in Mannford, Oklahoma, on November 30, 1934, the son of Ray and Gertrude Deatherage. Donald met his wife Della of 66 years, while he was working in the Oilfields and Della was a waitress at the Tower Café in Russell, KS. On January 15, 1955, Donald was united in marriage to Della Lantz at the First Christian Church in Russell, KS.

He worked for Sidey Drilling, Trans World Drilling in South America, Thompson Transport, Eastern Express, ANR Trucking and Graves Truck Line. While working for ANR Trucking Donald and Della became local business owners.  In 1964 they started Modern Landscaping, which evolved into Salina Tree, Inc., Greenburst Lawns, Inc. and D’S Weed & Pest Control, Inc. He was also a partner of Target Drilling Co. of Kansas.

He loved drilling for oil in North America, Brazil and Costa Rica, working on Big Iron, and riding motorcycles. Most conversations had something related to his Love of his family or the oil patch. He was an avid Teamster Union 696 member, a Master Mason of 37 years with Salina Lodge # 60, a 32nd Scottish Rite, and ISIS Shrine member of 36 years. He was also a member of National Arborist Association and Kansas Arborist since 1974. His other Love was to hunt big game all over North America, Scotland and Africa. On his locally owned farms he enjoyed hunting deer, pheasants and quail. He also loved his two dogs Angel & Wigles.

Donald was preceded in death by his father, Ray; mother, Gertrude; brother, Darrell Deatherage; and his stepfather, Raymond Bowers. Donald is survived by his wife, Della; his three children, Don Ray, Cheryl Lynn and Edward Dean; three grandchildren; five great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews, and many friends.

Donald’s wishes were to be cremated. A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 31, 2021, at First Christian Church, 2727 E Crawford, Salina, KS, and will include a Masonic Service.  Celebrations will continue following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Salina Animal Services, First Christian Church, Blue Lodge #60, Boy Scouts of America or a charity of the donor’s choice.    

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donald D. Deatherage, please visit our floral store.