Donald ‘Don’ Prechtel
December 16, 1936 – April 21, 2024
Donald “Don” Conrad Prechtel of Creswell, Oregon, passed away on April 21, 2024, at the age of 87. Donald was born on December 16, 1936, in Los Angeles, California, to Elmer and Jane (Asmus) Prechtel.
Donald will be remembered as a husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, and great-grandfather. It is difficult to express the deep and lasting impact that he has had on his family and those who he interacted with over his lifetime. He was a steadfast friend, mentor, and champion for those that were lucky enough to be gathered in his circle.
Over his lifetime he became an internationally recognized historical fine artist and muralist. Don worked mostly in oil but was also accomplished in watercolor, graphite, ink work and sculpture. His artwork hangs in private collections, museums, and military installations including the Virginia Military Institute, Government House (Dublin, Ireland), the Notre Dame Alumni Association Building, and his murals provide the foundation for the Past is Present exhibit at the University of Oregon Museum of Natural and Cultural History. He was also the recipient of many artistic accolades, honors, and awards.
Don was a humble guy from Lynx Hollow who grew to be one of the leading artists of his time.
Over the last few months many of his friends and colleagues reached out to tell him what a massive influence he had been on their lives. He was there to provide introductions, give a hand up, or share an encouraging word. As a result, he built a professional network and personal relationships from coast to coast.
He was known for sharing his love of art, history, and the Old West as well as for his warmth and kindness. He spent years serving in the Creswell Presbyterian Church and was often found sharing his love of Christ.
In his faith he led by example. Leading us in prayer at all our family meals, reading his bible as others would read a novel, and sending scriptures to those that he knew were hurting and in need of support. We know that Don passed with peace in his heart and that God was waiting for him with open arms. He prepared us for this day and assured us that whenever the time came, he would be ready. He encouraged us not to dwell or be despondent upon his passing, but rather to know how much he loved us and to celebrate the amazing life he was given.
Don leaves a wife of 63 years, three children, a son-in-law, two daughters-in-law, 5 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren all of whom he loved and cherished. We love you Dad, you will be missed.
A service will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 1 p.m. at the Creswell Presbyterian Church in Creswell, Oregon. Arrangements in the care of Smith-Lund-Mills Funeral Chapel.
DEATH NOTICE
Michael Dean Barlow, also known as Michael Kretten, was born in Eugene, Oregon on July 11, 1959. On June 6, 2024 Michael died in Cottage Grove, Ore. Arrangements are in the care of Smith-Lund-Mills Funeral Chapel.
