Don E. Grainger

Don E. Grainger joined his beloved wife Marion on July 2, 2011. He was delighted to be a part of this world for 90+ years. Don was born in Miles City, MT on September 8, 1920 and where he spent his formative years.

He served in the Air Force from 1942 through 1945. His service included 2 1/2 years with the 8th Air force stationed in England flying B17s with the 711 Bomb Squadron, 447 Group. He was the recipient of the Purple Heart and Air Medal.

Don was married to Marion Mellor of Staffordshire, England in August of 1945. Upon Marion’s arrival in the USA, they settled in Miles City. In 1950 they moved to Billings, MT and Don continued his career with Winter Hardware Distributors as a salesman. During his 31 years with Winter Hardware, he was purchasing manager, sales manager, general manager and at the time of his retirement in 1981 he was partner and general manager of the company. During his 31 years in business, he was president of Toastmasters and Billings Optimists, board member of Billings Rotary and Special Transportation. He was also active in Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. He was an active member of St Stephens Episcopal Church. Don was the first senior warden of St. Stephens and a Lay Eucharist Minister from 1952 until his death.

He is survived by his son Brian and two daughters Barbara and Debra, along with five granddaughters and one grandson, and six great grandchildren.

Memorial Services will be held at 2:00 P. M., Sunday, July 31, 2011 at St.Stephen's Episcopal Church. Cremation has taken place and his ashes will be placed with Marion’s in the crematorium at St. Stephens. Please make memorials to the St. Stephens Memorial Fund.