Tributes

Capt. Donald P. Nachtwey, USCG, Ret., has reported to his final deployment on August 19th, 2022. This salt of the earth, hard-working, fearless and warm-hearted soul lived his life to the fullest. He connected tightly with his beloved family and community, leaving his mark in making this world a better place. He was born a country boy in De Pere, WI, to Paul and Angeline (Van Vonderen) Nachtwey on November 22, 1933. A pattern of honest, caring, hard-working and clean living was instilled in him by loving parents who taught him by example. In turn he showed this sincere love to his own family. His faith was an integral and important part of his life. He married his high school sweet heart, Jean Rickaby, on March 21, 1953; she has been by his side for 69 years through fun, family, moves, trials and tribulations. In 1952 Don joined the U.S. Coast Guard and made it his career. After five years as an enlisted man, he attended OCS graduating in 1957. Don earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of the State of New York. He served his country for 33 years in a long and illustrious career with the U S Coast Guard. His 17 years of sea duty spanned the Arctic, Pacific and Atlantic regions. His career encompassed numerous positions of Industrial Engineer, Engineering Officer, Logistics Engineer, Executive Officer and culminated as Captain and Commanding Officer of the Coast Guard Yard, Baltimore, Maryland. He was bestowed with three Meritorious Achievement awards. He retired in October of 1985 after 33 years of service. In semi-retirement, from the Coast Guard, he worked for General Dynamics and Tracor in CT and Social Services for the State of Maryland before moving to Bend, OR. He enjoyed traveling, gardening and wood working. His enthusiasm for volunteering and community service was ever present in many different ways. Everything from PTA president, coaching his children's various sport activities and many other organizations where he spent countless hours that benefited from his leadership skills. In Bend he volunteered at the Community Center, Senior Citizen Center and delivered Meals on Wheels for 12 years. He was a member of the Lions Club for 34 years holding various offices during this time. He is dearly missed by his loving wife of 69 years, Jean, son , David (Beverly) Nachtwey, daughters, Michelle Albrecht , Elizabeth Eagney, Carolyn (Eric) Davenport, brother Jerry (JoAnn) Nachtwey, two sisters, Dorothy Gerritts, Ruth Tobin, brother-in-law, Jerome (Carol) Rickaby, and sister-in-law Donna Beno. He enjoyed being "Poppy" to six grandchildren, and four great grandchildren. He was proceeded in death by his parents, father and mother-in-law (Roland and Gladys Rickaby), brother-in-laws, Mike Tobin, Russell Gerritts, James Rickaby and Marty Beno, sister-in-law, Joan Rickaby and grandsons Kyle and Stephen Eagney. At Don's request there will be no service, his ashes will be spread at a later date over the gentle waters of Long Island Sound. Dad, you always let us set our own course, always the gentle wind on our backs and a safe harbor when needed. We love you, The "Crew" Sailor, may you have fair winds and a following sea. Te Amo, Jean. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to a charity of your choice.

Tributes

Capt. Donald "Don" P. Nachtwey, Ret.

November 22, 1933 - August 19, 2022