1927 – 2015

WINTHROP — Chief Warrant Officer Four USA (Retired) Donald E. Best, passed away at home on Monday, May 4, after a long battle with cancer and related illnesses.

Don was born May 21, 1927, in Augusta. Growing up, Don attended local schools. Don graduated with an accounting degree from Bates Business College.

As a young man, Don was employed in local restaurants, Firestone Tire and Rubber Co. and was a manager at Fort Western Tire Co. He also worked for the Department of Agriculture as a federal and state poultry inspector and as Department of Defense Army Reserve Technician.

Don served in the U.S. Army during World War II in the American Theater. During his military career, he served with the 3638 Truck Company, 76th Division USAR and the 1125th USA Hospital. His last duty assignment before he retired was with the 11th Engineer Battalion. He proudly served over 43 years in the military before retirement in 1989.

Donald was a lifetime member of the Reserve Officer Association and a life member of Post 40 American Legion of Winthrop. He was also a 40-year member of the Warrant Officer Association, BOP Order of Elks Augusta Lodge No. 964, Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 3658 St. Petersburg, Fla. He also had longstanding membership in American Federation of Government Employees, Local 1900 and Military Officers Association of America, Southern Maine Chapter.

Don had many hobbies and interests. He was an avid hunter and one of his favorite memories was when he shot his moose. He also enjoyed fishing, gardening and cooking. Don spent many years cooking at local clubs, including the American Legion in Winthrop and Florida and the Elks Club in Pinellas Park, Fla. He also kept an extensive collection of cookbooks from around the world.

Don is survived by his longtime partner, Robin Fink; his sister, Ruby Chase of Pinellas Park, Fla.; his stepson, Galen “Chuck” Lemar and wife, Barbara, of Plano, Texas; as well as two nephews, Norman A. Best and wife, Dorothy, of Whitefield, and Bradley Best of East Andover.

Don was predeceased by his parents, Eva (Braden) Irish and Guy E. Best; his wife, Hope (Lemar) Best; his brother, Norman E. Best; his nephew, Lawrence A. Brown; and his longtime friend and mentor, Ray Sterling.

Memories, condolences, photos and videos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of our website at www.khrfuneralhomes.com.