Don Clement, 83

Don Clement of Polson, beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home on Feb. 24, 2025, with his loving wife, Stephanie, and his daughter, Tavia, at his side. He was 83.

Don was born in Tacoma, Wash., to Beauford Clement and Billie Sigafoos Clement on July 25, 1941. He was the third boy, joining brothers Dennis and Darrell.

Billie later married Henry Parker Peterson, who was a career Army officer. They lived on military bases across the U.S. and in Japan. A sister, Darlene, was added to the family in 1958.

Don graduated from Claremont High School in California and attended a local junior college.

Don met Stephanie Ripley Anderson on a blind date, and it was love at first sight. They were married for 59 years.

Don and Stephanie moved to the coastal community of Corona del Mar where Don was a successful painting contractor. They made friendships that have lasted a lifetime.

Don was an avid deep-sea fisherman and a dove and duck hunter and he loved stalking wild turkeys. He played and coached adult softball and volleyball teams and enjoyed swinging at golf balls.

Don’s social nature was unstoppable. He just loved people and entertaining them with jokes and stories. He loved adventure and wanted everyone to join in. The whole family ran chase for nephew Todd in the Baja 500 and 1000 races. Don started barbecuing tri-tip for the team and it grew into a legendary event for hundreds of people.

He invested in his nephew’s dream of an off-road tour adventure in Baja, Mexico, and enjoyed seeing it become successful.

In 2004 Don and Stephanie decided to retire and moved to Stephanie's home state of Montana. They settled in Polson near family and opened a restaurant, Papa Don’s Grill, with their daughter Tavia and her family. The specialties were grilled tri tip, fresh salmon and smoked ribs. They introduced pulled pork and fish tacos to the valley.

Don quickly made friends and got involved in the Kiwanis and fundraising for the Boys and Girls Club. Don's life was a beacon of fun, laughter and generosity.

He is survived by his loving wife Stephanie, children Brett (Tina) Clement, Tavia (Ben) Martinez, and Danielle Sloan; grandchildren Parker Martinez, Cortlynn Clement, Shea Martinez and Cade Clement; brother Dennis Clement and sister Darlene Freyer; and sisters- and brothers-in-law, many wonderful nieces and nephews, and his kitty cat, Simon.

In lieu of flowers or donations, please be kind to someone today, smile at a stranger or find the opportunity to tell a corny joke. A celebration of life will be held in June. Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.