Donald Weinman, 52, of Libby

Donald “Donny” Weinman was born July 21, 1961 in Rocky Mount, N.C. to Barbara Herman and Joseph Weinman and went to be with his Lord and Savior on April 15, 2014.

Donny graduated from Libby High School in 1980. He then began working on oil rigs and seismographing in Nevada and New Mexico.

He moved to Sweethome, Ore., where he met and married Marie. They later had two children, Bryin and Heather who were a bright spot in Donny’s life. Donny eventually moved to Libby to work with his brother Jimmy in 1993, doing mechanical work.

In 1993 an unfortunate turn of events took place in Donny’s life. He had a surgery to remove a tumor in his spinal cord. He walked into the hospital and came out a quadriplegic.

Instead of allowing this tragedy to cause him to give up on life, he made it into an opportunity and a challenge to find ways to enjoy life despite his disability. His life became centered and grounded on his faith in Jesus Christ, which he shared with anyone who would listen. He resonated peace, joy, humor and love to all those he came in contact with.

One of Donny’s greatest love affairs was with his white 1968 Dodge Charger. He loved racing it, doing burnout contests and making road trips with his friends.

Due to his love of speed and racing, it was reported on more than a few occasions that he was seen racing down the highway on Whiskey Hill popping wheelies in his wheelchair.

Donny developed many talents to keep himself busy and productive. He oil painted (with his mouth) leaving the world with his beautiful artwork. He played harmonica, computer golf, checkers (rarely anyone could beat him) and photography.  With his competitive nature he became an expert at them all.

He also developed many tools and accessories to improve the life of a quadriplegic and make them more independent. He had a plan to patent them one day.

Donny loved to visit the park near his home, catch some rays (as he put it), study the Word, listen to the birds and absorb the goodness of life that God gave him.

If Donny could speak to all of us today, here is a quote he would share from his life story that he wrote: “Even though an operation took away the use of my arms and legs and left me with severe hardship, through a series of miracles I have my own home, a newer van, I paint oils with my teeth, play the harmonica and live a life full of forgiveness, fullness and joy. I realize it is not the physical body that makes us happy or an earthly home or family. My journey in life has led me to Christ. Knowing this, my suffering brings Him glory.”

Donny was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Herman, and his father, Joseph Weinman. He is survived by his sister Darlene Goucher and husband Newell Goucher of Libby, his son Bryin Weinman (Lonny), daughter Heather (Weinman) Carr (Tim), grandchildren Austin, Hank, Taylor and Brody, all of Sweethome, Ore., brothers Jim Weinman (Ruby), of Libby, and Leo Weinman (Belinda), of Colorado Springs, Colo., sister Tina Dunkel (Lee) of Belgrade, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, great-cousins, in-laws and many friends.

A celebration of Donny’s life will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2014 at 2 p.m. at the Amish Community Hall (Farm to Market Store). A potluck will  follow. All of his friends and family are welcome to attend.