Editor’s note: this is the second profile of Sequim Irrigation Festival pioneers leading up to the 123rd festival set for May 4-13.

Don Ellis, 84, has lived in Sequim his whole life.

The Jamestown S’Klallam Tribal elder said he’s seen a lot of parades for the Irrigation Festival but he’s not used to being under the limelight like this.

When he rides in the Grand Parade on May 12 as a grand pioneer, Don says “it’ll be quite the day.”

“My family is really excited,” he said. “My folks will be looking down with a smile.”

Don was born in Dungeness to Matt, a salesman, and Rachel Ellis, a homemaker.

Matt sold farm equipment at the Clallam Co-op before becoming a car salesman in Port Angeles and lastly a real estate agent in Port Townsend prior to retirement.

“Dad was a salesman at heart,” Don said.

Don has one brother and three sisters with all but one living in Sequim today.

He fondly remembers his time at the Dungeness Schoolhouse and graduating from Sequim High School in 1952. When he wasn’t in school, Don said he milked 55 cows and worked on the family farm.

After graduation, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served in Korea with the 25th Infantry for two years.

When back stateside, he married and had four children. He currently has 12 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Don worked as a machinist for 33 years at Port Angeles’ Rayonier Mill. He also served as a volunteer firefighter for 25 years with Clallam County Fire District 3.

Upon retirement, Don said he got bored and drove a shuttle for 7 Cedars Casino. He also served on the Jamestown Tribe’s Fish and Game Committee for 10 years and would take fellow tribal elders to different outings.

In his years here, he’s become a life member of the Sequim VFW, and served as charter member of the Sequim Elks Club, Foot Printers Chapter 74, Fraternal Order of Eagles in Port Angeles, and as a member of the Korean War Veterans Chapter 310.

Don says he also loves to hunt and fish and he’s spent a lot of time fishing in fresh and salt water. Now he just enjoys kicking back and fishing occasionally.

Over the years, the Irrigation Festival has meant a lot to him. When his dad worked for the Clallam Co-Op, Don remembers being able to drive a Farm-All cub tractor in the parade. He also remembers pushing a wagon with a buddy picking up after the horses.

This year marks the third year Don has ridden in the parade after back-to-back years riding on floats honoring fellow veterans.

“It’s nice of the pioneers to have me as a grand pioneer,” Don said. “I appreciate them choosing me.”

For more information on Irrigation Festival events, visit www.irrigationfestival.com.

Reach Matthew Nash at mnash@ sequimgazette.com.