Donald "Jack" Hindman

On May 2, 2025—his 87th birthday—we said goodbye to My dad, Donald C. (Jack) Hindman. He left this world just as he lived in it: quietly, simply, and on his own terms.

Donald Clifford Hindman was born in Baker City, the son of Donald Albert and Ida Catherine (Gerry) Hindman.

Jack, as he was known, spent his early years in Durkee then La Grande Briefly before moving to Huntington where he graduated from high school with the class of 1956. He entered the U.S. Navy where he served for 6 years. After his honorable discharge, he attended what is now known as Eastern Oregon University for a year before transferring to Eastern Washington University where he received a bachelor's degree in elementary education.

He worked for Union Pacific Railroad for a while before taking a job with the City of La Grande Public Works where he spent 21 years until his retirement.

Dad enjoyed his privacy. He wasn’t one for big crowds or small talk—he liked the quiet, being home, and having his own space. But when he did speak, it mattered. His words were few, often quirky, and always sincere.

Along the way, life led him to Hong Kong, where he met and married my mom Marcelina Villamore. They built a life filled with love, routines, and quiet joy. He was always waiting at home when she walked in the door & he did everything for her. He enjoyed his Ensure and had a constant stash of sweets. He had his own way about things, & a unique sense of humor.

He leaves behind his wife, Mercy Hindman, his only child & her husband Sensie & Johnny McDonald, grandchildren Reya & Wilder McDonald, dog Missy Hindman, siblings Patty Hindman, Judy Van Dyke, & Toni Alford, and all of La Grande. We’ll miss him every single day—but we’re grateful he was ours.

A memorial gathering will be held on Sunday, May 11, 2025, from 11:30-2:30 at the Riverside Park Pavilion.

To help fund the Celebration of Life, cash contributions are appreciated.