HERMISTON – Donald Ray “Don” Elliot, 80, of Hermiston died Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2009, at his home. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 17 at New Hope Community Church in Hermiston. Burial with military honors will follow at the Hermiston Cemetery.

Mr. Elliot was born Nov. 8, 1928, in Parma, Idaho, to Clarence and Threlma (McCreary) Elliot. He was raised in Adrian, graduating from high school there, and then attended Eastern Oregon College in La Grande. He served in the Army, stationed in Japan, during the Korean Conflict.

After the service he met his wife, Shirley Faye Lockett, at the Snake River Stampede Rodeo, where she was a princess. They were married in 1958 in Ontario, and moved to Hermiston in 1966.

He worked at Marlette Homes for 27 years. He farmed and ranched for most of his life.

Mr. Elliot is survived by his wife of 50 years, Shirley Elliot of Hermiston; son Bret Elliot of Hermiston; daughter Renae Martin of Pendleton; and one grandson.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Kenneth Elliot; and son-in-law Rob Martin.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army or to a local charity of choice.

Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in charge of arrangements.