Don A. Green was welcomed into heaven on January 25, 2024. A devoted husband to Sue for 72 years, a father to 5 children, a friend to many, a lifelong outdoor enthusiast, and a dedicated Christian, Don left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Born on the family farm in Kent, Washington on May 2, 1931, Don was blessed with a love for the outdoors, whether casting a fly on a favorite river, traveling to parts around the world with Sue, or hiking in the Olympic National Forest. He became a master woodworker in retirement, loved hand building and flying radio-controlled aircraft, and fishing.
As a pioneer in the world of fly-fishing, Don was not just an expert angler; he was a true innovator, pushing the boundaries of tradition bringing the joy of fly-fishing to countless. His legendary contributions to the sport will be remembered for generations to come, as he inspired enthusiasts to see fly-fishing not just as a hobby, but as an art form. He started his career as Grizzly Fiberglass in Auburn, Washington in 1954 with $6,000 from Sue’s family inheritance, in a building built by his father. Demand for his fiberglass rod blanks grew, leading to merging with Fenwick Fishing Rods in 1968. After 10 years, he parted ways with Fenwick to focus exclusively on creating graphite flyrods and forming Sage Flyrods in 1980. His methodical engineering approach to creative problem-solving conquered challenge after challenge, all in the pursuit of designing the finest flyrods in the world. He inspired those in the field to be the spokespeople for his work, many becoming some of the best in the world.
Beyond his outdoor interests, Don was deeply committed to his faith. His involvement with Christ Memorial Church, now known as Gateway Fellowship, and alongside former Pastor Al Munger was significant. Don played a pivotal role in acquiring the property and during the construction of the church building. His steadfast commitment to his Christian values permeated every aspect of his life.
Don’s legacy is not just one of achievement and innovation but also of love, kindness, and a life well-lived.
He leaves behind his wife Clara (Sue) Green, Poulsbo, Washington; sister Lynn Breda, Kent, Washington; daughters Marta (Greg) Bright, Poulsbo, Washington, and Donna Green, Poulsbo, Washington; and sons Dana (Lisa) Green of Bradenton, Florida, and Paul (Patti) Green, Poulsbo, Washington; and was preceded in death by son, Mark Green. Don was beloved grandpa to Megan (Chris) Toomey, Seattle, Washington, Hilary (Matthew) Chalk, Centennial, Colorado, Kyle Green, Portage, Indiana, Erik (Samantha) Bright, Bothell, Washington, Joshua (Anna) Green, Shelton, Washington, Joseph (Lara) Green, Langley, Washington; and seven great grandchildren.
The family will host a celebration of Don’s life with a memorial service at Gateway Fellowship Church in Poulsbo, Washington on Saturday, February 24, 2024 at 1:00pm.
In place of traditional flowers, the family has requested that any monetary donations be given to Gateway Christian Schools in Poulsbo, Washington (www.gatewaychristianschools.org) or Kings Schools in Palm Springs, California (www.kingsschools.net).
For those wishing to send a remembrance, please mail to 19689 7th Ave NE, #244, Poulsbo, Washington, 98370 in care of the Green Family.
Arrangements entrusted to Cook Family Funeral Home of Bainbridge Island, WA.
