Donald R.A. DeRoest Obituary (1932 - 2015)

Donald Richard Albert De Roest, 82, of Baker City died Saturday, October 10th, 2015 at his residence. A memorial service is planned for 11:00 AM on Saturday, October 17 at Gray's West & Company Pioneer Chapel with Pastor Jesse Whitford of the Baker City Christian Church officiating. Friends are invited to join the family for a reception following the service. Don was a life long resident of South Baker area of Baker City. He was born December 26, 1932 to Belgium immigrants, Bruno and Sabila (Lanchriet) De Roest, who had settled in Baker as farmers and ranchers in 1912. Don was the youngest of 9 children, with 3 sisters and 5 brothers, all of whom have passed on. Don worked for the Oregon Lumber Company for many years, drove school bus, worked for Commercial Welding and was a member of the Teamsters Union. In 1960 he bought his first backhoe and started his business, Don De Roest Excavating and Contracting, which he owned and operated for 52 years. He was certified to install septic tanks and drain fields, installing numerous systems in the Baker County area. In later years he used his water truck to assist the Forest Service in extinguishing many fires both near and far. Don married Louise Bohn in 1956 at the age of 23 and had 4 children. The couple divorced after 25 years. He then met and enjoyed the companionship of Hazel Berdahl, his significant other of 34 years until his passing. He was a life-long Catholic and enjoyed snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, dancing and camp out parties at the "Park on the Powder River" which he owned and developed. Don and Hazel frequently visited the casinos in Jackpot & Winnemucca where they enjoyed playing the slot machines. Don was also an active member in the Elks #338 and Eagles Lodge. Five years ago Don adopted his beloved Chihauhau/Terrier mix dog, Bubba, who added much pleasure to his final years. Don was preceeded in death by his son, Dale, who died last year. He is survived by his daughter, Christine Gareis and husband Dennis of California, sons, Tony De Roest of Nevada, Curtis De Roest and wife Jill of Alaska, five grandsons, one granddaughter and his long time companion, Hazel Berdahl of Baker City. Memorial contributions may be made to the Eagles Club #3456 through Gray's West and Co., 1500 Dewey Ave., Baker City, OR 97814.