Donald Seese

Donald “Hoppy” Seese

On February 25, 2016, just hours before his 85th birthday, Donald Lewis Seese passed peacefully at home holding hands with his wife Lou.

Donald was born February 26, 1931 in Massillon, Ohio to Upton and Elsie (Lewis) Seese. He was one of nine children.

In his younger years, he owned and rode horses in rodeos. It’s said he never met a horse he couldn’t ride. His favorite cowboy was Hopalong Cassidy, and so Donald became Hoppy to those who knew him. A nickname he wore proudly the rest of his life.

In 1955 Hoppy married Genevieve Skibicki. Together they had two Children, Jacqueline “Jack” and Donald Jr. “the boy”.

In 1978, his children grown, his son in the Navy and his daughter married to a Navy man, Hoppy left his childhood home to join his family in Washington State. Although he loved living in the Pacific Northwest, he remembered his Ohio heritage fondly and returned to Massillon any chance he could. While in Ohio, Hoppy worked for Echo. After moving to Washington he worked for Boeing, retiring in 1996. Hoppy also worked for Auburn Chevrolet.

In 1993 Hoppy married Lou, his years with her by his side were his happiest, and we are forever grateful for the love she gave him.

Hoppy loved horses, dogs (he always had a dog) fishing and spending time with his buddies down at the Rainbow Cafe. A true cowboy, Hoppy was always well dressed, clean shaven and had a hat on his head. He took great pride in his appearance, his home and his truck.

Hoppy had a rough exterior, but underneath that a heart of gold. He was a friend to many, well respected. He spoke the truth and never pretended to be anything but himself.

Know that if you ever shared a cup of coffee with him, joined him fishing, received a pat on the back from him, or even received a bit of harassment, he considered you a friend.

Hoppy is survived by his wife, Louella Seese, Children; Jacqueline (Jim) Liuzzi and Donald Seese Jr. Grandchildren: Donald III (Liz) Seese. Catherine (Aaron) Gruber. Marcie (Jason) McAlister, Linnzi Liuzzi and Amanda (Patrick) Jazwi.The prides of his lifetime, his Great Grandchildren; Maggie, Alexander, Natalie, Thomas and Skylar. His niece Betty Swisher Giacometti among many other extended family members. His lifelong friend of 80 years Richard (Boone)Getz. And his dog, Duffy.

Hoppy was preceded in death by his parents, all of his siblings, Idabelle, Thelma, Doris, Herbie, Leroy, Nevin, Upton Jr. And Charles, and his son Michael Bohlke.

The family will host a memorial at Hoppys second home, The Rainbow Cafe in Auburn, on Sunday March 13 at 2pm. Coffee and soft drinks will be provided.

Please share your memories and maybe order “Hoppys favorite potato pancakes” in his honor.

May he never be forgotten. Rest in Peace Hoppy.