Donald Drexel Liljar
November 5, 1938 - July 30, 2008
Obituary
Don Liljar passed away July 30, 2008 in Seattle. He was born November 5, 1938 in Chicago, Il. to Harry and Eva Liljar.
In 1952 his family moved to the Northwest, where he attended Ballard High School, followed by six years in the United States Coast Guard. His active duty on the ‘Northwind’ included two tours of duty to the Arctic and one to the South Pole. Don’s creativity was exhibited especially in his elaborate metal sculptures and various other works of art. Musically gifted, he could play many instruments and as a young man was a professional drummer. He was a musical instrument repairman for Farmer’s Music and Ford’s Music. More recently he worked as a metal fabricator for Nemco and North Industries. He was well known for his practical jokes and sense of humor. Don will be missed but left many happy memories.
He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Judy, his daughter Tina Bill Bird, grandchildren Christian and Madalyn, brother Harry Dianne Liljar, three nieces and three nephews, other relatives, friends, and church family.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, August 9, at Living Hope Church of the Nazarene, 20107 1st Ave. S., Normandy Park. Please share your memories at www.bonneywatson.com.
I have just been introduced to Mr. Liljar’s work with metal and being a metal worker myself, I was amazed by his talent. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
When Don drove in to eat donuts at Lucky’s in Burien, you never knew who was actually doing the driving–he or his dog. “Bear” would shift from side to side in the front seat of the old, battered pickup and then sit patiently waiting, licking his chops for a tasty treat soon to come.
But that was Don: giving, making you laugh while knowing that you’d been suckered once again by one of his practical jokes, creating metallic “monsters” from spare parts to brighten up the home, and all the while talking about how he loved Jesus.
Truly a part of old Burien, we at the donut shop and I will miss Don. But I know that it won’t be long before I see him again. I expect he’ll also have lost some weight.
We moved in to the neighborhood in 2002, and within 30 minutes Don made us feel welcome. He offered to fix my broken barbecue, and made it better than new I hadn’t known Don for more than an hour and he’s helping me. Don was a great guy who could always bring a smile. We in the neighborhood will all miss you Don.
Don, for 17 years you have been a friend and have made me laugh. You will be missed and never be forgotten.
Ray Peace
We met Donald in the early 80’s through his dad Harry. We fell in love with this kind,gentle,funny and talented man. We loved coming over to see his latest creations and to visit with Judy. We will miss him dearly. His whole family is in our thoughts and prayers. Luanne and Brent Wingstrand
The best neighbor and friend anyone could have. Your jokes will survive you and bring a smile. Don, you will be missed.
Always in our thoughts & Prayers