Donald Faughnan

Donald L. “Skip” Faughnan, 90, of Knife River, died Wednesday, July 7, 2021 at St. Luke’s Hospital after a brief illness.

Skip was born to Louis and Borghild (Olsen) Faughnan on August 16, 1930 in Duluth, MN and grew up in West Duluth.

Skippy was an adventurous sort, and his family loved to listen to stories of his youthful exploits.   At age 15, he enlisted in the US Navy, serving from 1945-1947, stationed mainly in the Philippines.  After his military service, he returned to Duluth and was employed as a crane operator for Local # 49 for over 40 years, working in numerous states, and many historic projects in the Duluth area & up the North Shore.

It was while working in Tofte that he met his future wife, Gayle Bugge.  Skip and Gayle were married in 1956. They made their home in Knife River where they raised their 3 sons surrounded by family and friends.

After Gayle passed, Skippy lived in his home, the way he wanted for the rest of his days. He enjoyed spending time with family, working on his perfect yard, reading, and his daily jaunts to the Moose Club.  Especially important was time spent hunting and playing cards at Chalet Neva Care with his buddies, who he considered his second family.

Skip was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose, American Legion, and the VFW.

Skip was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Gayle; and a son, Michael; brother, Wayne; and sisters, Joan and Peggy.

He is survived by two sons, Jody (Kelly) Faughnan and Casey Faughnan of Knife River; 6 grandchildren, Joey and Jenny Faughnan of Knife River, Chelsea, Corey (Courtney), Chase, and Caitey (Brandon) Faughnan, all of North Carolina; and great-grandchildren, Madison and Bennett.

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, July 17, 2021 at Lakeview Cemetery in Two Harbors, followed by a Celebration of Life at 2:30, at the Two Harbors Moose Lodge,709 1st Ave.

Skippy’s infectious smile and sharp wit will be missed by all. He was a dazzling character in life and in fashion. Feel free to wear colorful attire in his memory.

To share your memories or condolences online please visit www.cavallinfuneralhome.com.