Donald Argetsinger

Sep 26, 1945 -

Mar 8, 2023

Donald Argetsinger, born Sept. 26, 1945, made the journey to the great beyond on March 8, 2023, in Anchorage, Alaska. He was 77 years old. Don was born in Minneapolis, Minn., to the late Louise Henderson Argetsinger of Quincy, Ill., an educator, and John Deem Argetsinger of Pipestone, Minn., a civil engineer. He grew up in Juneau, Alaska, where his family moved when he was five.

After earning a bachelor's degree in economics and political science from the University of Puget Sound, Don spent his career working as a civil servant and political staffer for Alaska's state government as well as an Alaska U.S. Senator. Later, he worked for Alaska Native village and regional corporations. He lived his values of compassion and empathy for others by volunteering his time for charitable causes. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and was honorably discharged in 1974.

Don was loved by friends, family and colleagues for his compassion, generosity and gentle spirit, as well as his integrity, humility, humor and intellect. He was deeply curious about the world and enjoyed traveling, camping and spending time outdoors.

Don is survived by his wife, Lynda Mary Hadley; two sons, John and Timothy Argetsinger; and grandson, Yaayuk Sørensen Argetsinger. He is also survived by his siblings, Peter Argetsinger, David Argetsinger and Marianne Derr; and five nieces and nephews, Ernest Argetsinger, John and Ben Derr, Stacie Smiley and Liz Nilsen.

Don requested that he be cremated upon his passing and, in lieu of a service, that his ashes be scattered in Juneau, with a celebration of life to follow.

He will be forever missed by those who loved him. He was a husband, brother, dad, ataata and uncle – but more than anything, he was a wonderful human being whose bright and beautiful spirit will continue to enrich our lives.

Don's family would like to thank the D Tower 5th floor nurses and techs at Providence Alaska Medical Center, the Palliative Care Clinic staff, as well as Providence Home Health Alaska staff. Donations in Don's memory can be made to the Alzheimer's Resource of Alaska, 1750 Abbott Rd., Anchorage, AK 99507.