Donald Thomas Worden

9/17/1952 — 9/7/2025

Service Date: 10/12/2025
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Sept. 17, 1952 – Sept. 7, 2025

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Donald Thomas Worden, of Lewiston, who helped usher the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley into the computer age while never losing the free-spirited spark of his youth, died Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025. He was 72.

Born Sept. 17, 1952, to Donald and Charlotte Worden, Don grew up in Lewiston with his sister, Jean. As a teenager, he was a rebel with a skateboard and long hair, often seen carving the driveway shirtless, his creativity already on display. He graduated from Lewiston High School and went on to DeVry School of Technology, where his fascination with all things tech took root.

That fascination became a career. Don began at Omark Industries, which through the years became Blount International, then ATK, and ultimately Vista Outdoors. He rose steadily through the ranks, leading the company’s IT department. In the valley, he was regarded as a pioneer who brought computer technology into daily life and work. Colleagues marveled at the way he fused analytical brilliance with imagination, always tempered by hard work.

Above all, Don’s life was defined by his partnership with Shannon. The two met in 1975 and shared 50 years together, married for 48. They did everything side-by-side — fishing, camping, skiing, traveling and playing tennis. Don and Shannon were avid players at the Lewis-Clark State College Tennis Center, where they spent many hours on court. Their marriage stood as a model of devotion, joy and mutual respect.

Beyond the office, Don lived for the outdoors. He fished every stream and river he could find, camped and explored the Pacific Northwest with Shannon and their son, Christopher, and chased winter powder on skis. Summers were for volleyball and autumns for football games, always watched beside Shannon. Later in life, the couple discovered the Caribbean, returning often to the turquoise waters of St. Barts and St. Maarten.

Beloved in the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley, Don will be remembered for his warmth, humor and generosity. He is survived by his wife, Shannon; his son, Christopher, and daughter-in-law, Erica; his grandchildren, Avalon, Axel and Goldie; his mother, Charlotte; his sister, Jean; his cousins Marcia and Bill Arnold and Don John Eimers; and Shannon’s sister, Rhonda Berg.

In accordance with his wishes, Don will be cremated. A celebration of life will be held from 2-4 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 12, at Rivaura, 21622 Rivaura Lane, Juliaetta.