Don, a devoted family man, lifelong banker, passionate outdoorsman, and faithful servant of his church and community, passed away on January 31, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Seattle on October 14, 1937, to Viola (Swanson) and Arnold Wahlquist, he carried proud Swedish heritage throughout his life. Don graduated from Bellevue High School in 1955, attended North Park College in 1957, and earned his degree from the University of Washington School of Business in 1959.

In 1960, he joined the U.S. Coast Guard Reserves. On April 21, 1962, he married the love of his life, Carolyn Ekblad. Their marriage spanned 63 years and nine months—a testament to enduring partnership, mutual respect, and deep love. Together they built a life centered on family, faith, and service.

A lifelong member of Seattle First Covenant Church, Don later spent his final 12 years at Bethany Covenant Church in Mount Vernon. He was a lifetime member of the Swedish Club of Seattle and a proud supporter of the Nordic Museum.

Don's commitment to community leadership was remarkable. He served for several years on the Board of North Park College, held various leadership roles within the Covenant denomination, and played a key part in helping establish Covenant Shores on Mercer Island. He also served on the board of the Jane Lea Foundation.

In his professional life, Don enjoyed a distinguished career in banking. He rose to Executive Vice President at University Savings and Loan, where he worked for 30 years before retiring. He later served as Vice President at Metropolitan Savings and Loan and co-founded Asia Europe Americas Bank in Seattle.

A longtime member of the Lions Club and the Bellevue Club, Don retired to Anacortes in 2010, where he enjoyed the beauty of the Skagit Valley and San Juan Islands.

An avid athlete well into his later years, he was an enthusiastic jogger, bicyclist, and basketball player through his 70s. His love of the mountains led him to summit Mount Rainier, all the major peaks in Washington state, Mount Hood in Oregon, and—most impressively—the Matterhorn in Switzerland at age 60. He cherished family ski trips to Whistler, Sun Valley, and Winter Park, always eager to be first on the mountain each morning.

Don is survived by his beloved wife of over 63 years, Carolyn; his four sons: Steve (wife Lisa) and their children Ellen and Gunnar; Rar (his "Hawaiian kid"); Mark; and Jon (wife Angela) and their children Johannes and Alison. He was deeply proud of his grandchildren and cherished every moment spent with them. And also brothers: Jim (wife Elaine) and Fred (wife Ingrid).

He also leaves behind a wide circle of family and friends who were blessed by his warmth, wisdom, integrity, and quiet strength. Don lived a full, active, and faith-filled life, leaving behind a legacy of service, adventure, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.

A celebration of life will be held at Bethany Covenant Church in Mount Vernon, February 14th at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bethany Covenant Church, Covenant Shores Retirement Community.

Rest in peace, Don. You will be deeply missed.