Donald Ray (Hayden) Grizzle was born on August 31,1937 in Fort Collins, Colorado to Pebble and Anthony Hayden. His mother eventually re-married and Don was adopted by Ludie Grizzle in 1942.

On August 9, 1964, Donald married Susan Ann Lawhon in Carson City, Nevada. They recently celebrated their 60th Anniversary with family in both Oregon and Las Vegas, NV. Donald worked for Pacific Bell in Los Angeles, California for 37 years. In March of 1980, Don and his family ventured to Missouri in pursuit of a change from the busy California lifestyle. He eventually returned to work with AT&T and transferred to Boonville, Missouri. After building a house in Boonville, Missouri, retiring from the phone company, and being the primary caregiver for his granddaughter Casey while her mother (Cristi) was activated by the U.S. Army. Upon their return, Don decided it was time to return to work.

He then took on a 2nd career—successfully navigating LPN school to become a nurse working in the Neonatal ICU. His son, David, later joined him and they became the "entertainment" in a place where smiles are needed. After living in Boonville for many years, Don and Susan moved to Oregon for a job change for Susan where he spent the remainder of his life. He enjoyed horseback riding and a love of antique cars that always took up space in the garage despite those cold Missouri mornings when scraping ice was necessary. He was a jack of all trades and able to do any kind of home remodeling work that seemed to always keep him busy.

Donald is preceded in death by his parents Pebbles Cheney and Ludie Grizzle. Two brothers Virgil Grizzle and Charles Grizzle.

He will be deeply missed by his surviving family members wife Susan Grizzle of Medford Oregon, Brother Benny Hayden, Daughter Connie (John) Cowles, Son Donald (Vee) Grizzle, Jr., Daughter Cathey Cooper, Son David (Kelly) Grizzle, Daughter Cristi (Riley) Skye, Eleven Grandchildren and Seven Great-Grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations be made in his name to advance the research and treatment of Pulmonary Fibrosis .