Donald Kenneth Worley of Salina, KS passed away peacefully on August 26th, 2023, at the age of 89 after a long battle with cancer. Don was born on February 11, 1934, in Flint, MI, to Kenneth and Helen Worley.
Don attended Dye & Linden High Schools in Michigan, graduating in 1951 and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida. Donald proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from August 30th, 1951, through August 29th, 1955, as an A & E Flight Mechanic and had the honor of serving in the Korean War. After his service he completed pilot training and worked as an Aerial Sprayer and commercial pilot for 34 years in the West Memphis AR area. He also owned and operated Three Forks Outfitting in East Glacier Park MT from 1972-1982, and Three Forks Campground in East Glacier Park MT from 1972-2002.
Donald married Sharon Mae Conner on October 23rd, 1967, in Lubbock TX and they shared 56 years together. Don & Sharon enjoyed many happy years living in East Glacier Park MT and Aransas Pass TX after Don’s retirement. He was a devoted husband and father who enjoyed restoring old tractors and spending time outdoors hunting, fishing, and camping with family. Donald was honored to have his name placed on the National Air & Space Museum Wall of Honor.
Donald was preceded in death by his sister Jean Spencer.
Donald is survived by his wife Sharon Worley, daughter Judy (Larry) Beck of Salina KS, son Kenneth (Renee Lawrence) Worley of Little Rock AR, brother Tim (Marie) Worley of Cedar Springs MI, grandchildren Donathan Blake Worley of Jacksonville AR, Stephanie (Dave) Miller of Little Rock AR, Christy Singer of Little Rock AR, Ken (Priscila) Beck of Abilene TX, and Sam Beck of Kansas City MO, great-granddaughter Audrey Miller of Little Rock AR along with many extended family members who will miss him dearly
A memorial service will be held at Ryan Mortuary & Crematory on North 8th Street on September 1st, 2023, where family will receive visitors at 10:00 am followed by a celebration of life at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be gifted to organizations of the donor’s choice. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Salina for their support and care during this difficult time.
Donald Kenneth Worley lived a life full of love for those close to him through his hard work ethic, dedication to service, passion for aviation, love of the outdoors, devotion to faith, and commitment to God. He leaves behind a legacy that will live forever through those he touched with his kindness and presence.