Don Clocksin

Jul 8, 1944 -

Oct 25, 2020

Donald Edson Clocksin passed away on Sunday, Oct. 25, 2020, in Portland, Ore. He leaves behind a loving family, a four-decade career devoted to social justice, and many tall tales about bears that will endure for generations.

Don was born on July 8, 1944, in Port Angeles, Wash. At Hoquiam High School, he was Student Class President, the captain of his football team, and - to the endless amusement of his family - voted "Mr. Courtesy." He graduated from the University of Washington for both his undergraduate and law school degrees.

Don moved to Juneau, Alaska, in 1973 - just 14 years after statehood - to work at Alaska Legal Services as a lobbyist and head of the Juneau office, providing legal aid to those unable to afford it. In 1980, he was elected to the State House, serving for 6 years, including 2 years as Majority Leader during Alaska's brief liberal revolution. He was also deeply involved in the American Civil Liberties Union as both President of the Alaska Chapter and an ACLU National Board member. He was a tireless advocate for the poor, politically powerless and rural Alaska.

Don was an avid and skilled outdoorsman, equally proud of his solo trip down the Yukon, ice climbing abilities and early REI member number. He could build a fire under any conditions - from frigid temperatures to pouring rain. After moving to Washington state in 1994, Don became an amateur boat captain, providing countless happy weekends for his family and only the occasional headache for the local coast guard.

A delightful storyteller, Don loved entertaining friends and family. He would often cook elaborate meals and bake beautiful pies. He was a lifelong gardener who was eternally struggling to grow lilac, his wife's favorite. The two spent decades traveling with their family, resulting in scars from both a local shark and a Malaysian jellyfish - all detailed in his 50 years of journals.

Don is survived by the love of his life, Betty, who he wooed on Dec. 30, 1975, when the power went out at the Red Dog Saloon in Juneau. Don was the only one with a flashlight.

He is also survived by his sister, Teresa; children, Bree (Drew), Teal (Chandni) and Caley; along with grandchildren, Annecy and Karti.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the ACLU. To share and celebrate the many wonderful memories of Don, please visit www.donclocksin.com.