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Donald Hugh Garretson, 84, of Macomb, Oklahoma passed away July 20, 2023 in Shawnee Oklahoma.
He was born September 11, 1938 in Macomb, Oklahoma, to Burleigh and Eunice (Rutledge) Garretson.
Don was raised in the Macomb area and graduated from Tribbey High School with the class of 1957.
Don proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1957-1960. After returning home he spent thirty-five years as a mechanic and instructor in the Helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft industry. Three and one-half years as an oil field logging and perforating engineer. One year as an over-the-road semi-truck driver and trailer-hussler. Performed shop area aircraft and component overhauls and serviced helicopters in field conditions around the world. Rebuilt various models of piston and turbine powered aircraft. Served as Director of Maintenance Operations and responsible for procurement of parts and supplies, inspection of aircraft. Trained new mechanics for over thirty years in the classroom, shop and Field operations. Owned and operated multi-state helicopter maintenance company for ten years. Taught in vocational-technical and proprietary schools for four years. Refurbished executive aircraft. Published monthly helicopter maintenance articles for nearly six years in the Aviation Mechanic's Journal, an international magazine. Don has several inventions concerning helicopters while employed by different companies- Most notable being one of three people who developed the World's first organized helicopter EMS program in 1975. Was instrumental in developing Petroleum Helicopters offshore Pilot/mechanic maintenance program in 1969-70.
He was preceded in death by his 2 daughters, Donna Jean Garretson and Jerry Lynn Garretson and 2 infant daughters; his parents; and sister, Barbara Jean Hinesley.
Don is survived by his daughter, Shari Lynn Gloria; brother, Garry Garretson; sister, Virginia Bane; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.
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