November 20, 1939 – September 16, 2021
Donald J. Cady was born in Madelia, MN and graduated from high school in Hector, MN, class of ’57. Following graduation, Don met his sweetheart and love of his life, Eloise Tuman, prior to military enlistment, and they wed on August 18, 1959. Five days later, Don was sent to South Korea where he spent the next 13 months. After completing his military obligation, he began working for 3M Company in 1962 in an entry-level Supply Man role.
With his tenacity and ambition, he set a goal to grow with the company and did just that. In 1988 he fulfilled this goal and became a Plant Manager in White City, OR. Being a dedicated family-man, he relocated his wife, daughters, and young granddaughters to accompany him. Some of the family’s fondest memories are from their time in Oregon when everyone lived under one roof. Don loved Southern Oregon so much that despite a few short years back in Minnesota, he retired from the 3M corporate headquarters in St. Paul, Minnesota, and he and Eloise re-established near Jacksonville, OR in 1997 for their golden years.
He was strong in his faith and community and soon became involved in the Jacksonville Boosters Club and served as president and co-founder of the Jacksonville Boosters Foundation. He was also heavily involved as an Elder with his church. Don was passionate about music and art and was an entertainer to all that knew him. He enjoyed spending time in the scenic outdoors, hiking and taking trips to the coast where his alter-ego, “Barnacle Bob” would surface to ensure everyone was having a great time. The rest of the time he was affectionately known as “Ompa” to his grandkids.
Don was full of talent, energy and creativity and could fix or build almost anything. No project was out of his scope whether it was an effort to beautify his home, please his lovely wife, or simply put a smile on the faces of his children and grandchildren. He loved working with computers and especially enjoyed helping friends with technical issues early in his retirement. Always generous in spirit and dapper in style, Don loved his family and friends and enjoyed hosting at his home. He loved horses and his special dog, Buddy, who we know was awaiting his arrival in Heaven. He loved his country and was guided by his faith.
The family finds comfort in knowing he is in a better place with many of his loved ones. In His arms. Don Cady, 81, is survived by his wife, Eloise, his children Kristine (Kevin), Kathryn (Kevin), his grandchildren Jennifer (Troy), Cassie (Paul) and Colton, as well as great-grandchild, Paisleigh and siblings Robert (Rosie) and Jane. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Judy. Don will be missed by family, friends and community. Memorial gifts may be sent to the Jacksonville Boosters Foundation (P.O. Box 1061, Jacksonville, OR 97530). Please mark checks “In memory of Don.”