And here is an obituary written by Barbara Palecek, Don's wife, including an announcement of his memorial service on Saturday, Oct. 10 in Seattle.


Donald Richard Firth, June 19, 1931 – September 4, 2015, died at Kline Galland care facility in Seattle. A memorial service will be held at 1 pm on Saturday, October 10, 2015 at Central Lutheran Church, 1700 11th Avenue (one block north of Pine on Capitol Hill) in Seattle.

Don will be remembered as a teacher of classic guitar and performer in coffee houses in the 50s and 60s. He was a founding member of the Pacific Northwest Folklore Society. He wrote articles for "Victory Music" and "Singout" magazines and was a regular contributer on the Mudcat Cafe, a website for folk performers and enthusiasts.

His bass-baritone voice was also recognizable on classic KXA (no longer on the air) and KORD in Pascoe. At his retirement he was a technical writer. He had a vibrant interest in astronomy. He was a classic style fencer which he pursued from his youth. Don had polio at the age of two affecting both legs but he excelled despite needing two forearm crutches and only one when fencing, developing a strong defense since he could not use offensive tactics.

Don leaves his wife, Barbara Palecek and son, Donald Firth, sister, Patricia Hansen, nieces nephews and many friends.

His book, IT WAS PLEASANT AND DELIGHTFUL, picturing the Seattle folk music scene of the 50s and after, is being readied for publication by his wife, Barbara, and son, Don.   


Cheers, S. in Seattle