Donald Orin Hardenbrook

Donald Orin Hardenbrook was born Sept. 4, 1926 in Kirkland, Wash. to Orin and Oleta Hardenbrook. 

 When Don was nine, a drunk driver killed his brother, Jimmy. Soon after, Don’s parents became Christians – forever altering the family’s future.

 After completing high school at age 17, Don joined the Navy. In Fort Pierce, Florida he trained with Scouts and Raiders as a Frogman (later the SEALS). Training completed, Don hitchhiked to Long Beach, Calif., and shipped out to Calcutta. There he learned tactical and Chinese language skills. 

 In Chungking, Don joined SACO (Sino-American Cooperative Organization), with thousands of Navy, Marine, and Chinese Nationalist troops. Serving behind Japanese army lines (with the Office of Strategic Services—later CIA), SACO’s activities remained top secret for years.

 Discharged in 1947, Don joined his parents in Boise. At a Christian camp, he met Dorothy June Bartholoma. They married Jan. 25, 1948.

 In 1950, Don was called up for the Korean conflict. After serving 16 months, he returned home, managed Van Patten Lumber in Payette, and graduated Boise Bible College.

 An avid backpacker for over 50 years, Don also pitched fast-pitch softball for 30 seasons. He received the Silver Beaver Medal for Boy Scout leadership.

 Don and Dorothy pastored churches in Oregon, Idaho, Washington, and Alberta. At two churches he co-pastored with his son, Jim. He and Dorothy led tours in the U.S. (including Hawaii), the Pacific Islands, New Zealand, and Australia.

 Don and Dorothy’s 61-year marriage ended with her death in 2009.

 To be near his sister, Marge Mulkey, Don moved to Weiser. He soon met Jo Honey, and they married in 2012. For 10 years they enjoyed church and community activities, and visited several states, including Alaska.

 Don is survived by Jo; children Kurt (Betty), Jim (Pam), Joe, Kitte Sandor (Art), and Jon (Shelley); 16 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; brother Gary, many nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

 Preceding him in death were Dorothy, his parents, two sisters, one brother, and two brothers-in-law.

 Don’s family suggests memorials to: Hardenbrook Scholarship Fund, Boise Bible College, 8695 W. Marigold St., Boise ID 83714, or a Christian organization you choose.

 A visitation will be held 5-7 p.m., Thursday, May 11, 2023 at Dakan Funeral Chapel, 504 S. Kimball Ave., Caldwell. Funeral services will be held 10 a.m., Friday, May 12, 2023 at the Cornerstone Assembly, 515 E. Court St., Weiser.

 Condolences may be shared with the family at www.dakanfuneralchapel.com.