Donnie Roy McHargue was born on June 23, 1945, in Idabel, Oklahoma, to Felix Dave and June Helen McHargue. Through his parents he learned the importance of hard work and strong family ties.

His family moved to the Roseburg area in 1954. Don's childhood was shaped by the rhythms of the land and the lively company of brothers and cousins. Their adventures—half mischief, half exploration—unfolded along dusty roads, wooded creeks, and backyards that seemed, to young imaginations, as vast as wilderness. They built forts, cast fishing lines into murky ponds, and returned home at dusk with stories that grew grander in the telling. These early years forged in Don a deep affection for nature and a lifelong devotion to family.

Faith became the compass by which he steered his life. While attending church, Don was not merely a member but a steward—teaching Sunday School, serving on the board of directors, acting as a Deacon, mentoring young men through Royal Rangers, guiding youth with patience and quiet conviction. His was not a loud faith, but a steadfast one, expressed through action and presence. Later in life, he discovered a gift for singing, adding his voice to worship with enthusiasm.

For nearly half a century, Don worked at Roseburg Forest Products. In the timber industry, where hard work, endurance and a positive attitude were paramount, he distinguished himself through diligence and good humor. Colleagues came to rely upon him not only for his work ethic but for the warmth of his character. The friendships he cultivated there endured well beyond the whistle of his final shift.

Yet it was outside the mill that Don's many hobbies came to life. He painted and photographed the world as he saw it—rich in color and quiet wonder. He fished with the patience of one who understood that stillness is its own reward. In his garden, he nurtured life from soil with patience, freely sharing cuttings, advice, and encouragement. "God's beauty is all around us," he would often say—and in his company, one was inclined to agree.

Spending time with friends brought a smile to his face. A simple errand to Bi-Mart might become an hour-long symposium of greetings, laughter, and news exchanges. He gave generously of his time, most memorably as "Head Elf Bernie" for Christmas for Kids in Douglas County, bringing delight to children and families. At the Winston Food Pantry and countless other efforts, he appeared whenever there was work to be done.

Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife of more than sixty years, Norma Lee McHargue, by just four months. A bond like that does not fade—it simply waits. He was also preceded by his parents, Dave and Helen McHargue, and his brother, Claude McHargue.

He is survived by his children: Debra and Don Koehn; Julie McHargue; and Michael McHargue. His grandchildren—Katelyn and Devin Koehn, and Kyle and David Johnson—who will carry forward his legacy. He is also survived by his siblings: Anna and Butch Schweitzer; Paula and Ted Glick; and Mike and Karen McHargue; along with numerous nieces and nephews, each a cherished part of his extended circle.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the Winston Community Center, 440 SE Grape Ave, Winston, Oregon, followed by a lunch reception and interment at Civil Bend Pioneer Cemetery.

Donnie Roy McHargue's life was woven with faith, service, humor, and an abiding reverence for the simple beauty of the world. And though his voice is still, the influence of his kindness continues.