Donald Christian Lassle, 85, of Lyman, passed away peacefully on Dec. 31. Don’s life was one defined by hard work, devotion to family and a love for the outdoors.
He was born on Jan. 23, 1940, in Glendive, Montana, the son of Gottlieb John Lassle III and Lydia Schock Lassle. Don entered the world with his twin brother, David August Lassle, whose life was tragically cut short in 1942 after a farming accident. Growing up on a dairy farm in Glendive, Don learned early the value of perseverance, responsibility and fixing what needed fixing — traits that stayed with him throughout his life.
In 1959, Don proudly served his country by enlisting in the United States Army and, in 1962, was stationed in Germany immediately after the Berlin Wall Crisis as part of the U.S. Army Berlin Brigade. During his time in the Army, he achieved the U.S. Army Carbine Expert Badge. His service reflected the quiet courage and sense of responsibility that would remain hallmarks of his character.
In 1968, Don married DeeAnn Douglas in Rock Springs. He fully embraced family life, helping raise DeeAnn’s four heathens and building a home filled with adventure, laughter, and love for the outdoors. Hunting, fishing and camping were not just hobbies — they were how Don shared his time, knowledge, skills and heart with those he loved. In 1970, the family settled in Lyman, where Don and DeeAnn made their home for the next 55 years.
Don earned his living through honest, physical work. He spent time in road construction as a grade checker, worked in the oil field, and later devoted 32 years to FMC as a mechanic before retiring in 2000. Retirement didn’t slow him down much; Don and DeeAnn spent many winters enjoying the warmth of Arizona with their friends, both old and new.
Known affectionately as “Grandpa Don,” he was always ready for the next adventure — be it a round of golf, a day spent fishing, or a hunt in the hills. A gifted mechanic with an eye for detail, Don could fix nearly anything and found special joy in working with his hands, restoring his old cars, pouring patience, pride and care into every project.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Gottlieb John and Lydia Lassle; his brothers, David August Lassle (twin), Edward Walter Lassle, Robert Lee Lassle, Raymond James Lassle, Erwin Edwin Lassle and Harold Lassle; his sister, Esther Caroline Lassle Smith; his half-brother, Albert Siegle; his stepson, Justin Dean (Butch) Harper; his stepdaughter, Sharilyn Harper; his great-granddaughter, Katelyn Mariah Utley Smith; and his great-grandson, Tristin Alan Peden.
He is survived by his loving wife, DeeAnn; children, Marilyn (Dan) Watson of Fort Bridger and Bud Harper of Casper; along with three brothers, Marvin Lassle of Crescent City, California; Clarence Lassle of Billings, Montana; and Eldon Lassle of Pinehurst, Idaho; and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Don will be remembered for his steady hands, generous heart and unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on in the stories told, the lessons passed down through generations, and the many lives he touched.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 9, at the American Legion Post 36, 100 County Rd. 224, in Fort Bridger, with graveside services at the Fort Bridger Cemetery, 2899 County Rd. 219, Fort Bridger.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the American Legion Post 36.
