Donald Max Armstrong, 94 of Sterling passed away December 25th, 2016. His family held a private service on December 29th at the Presbyterian Church in Sterling.

Don was born on September 30, 1922 in Sterling, CO to Frances (Daniels) and Glen Armstrong. He attended Sterling schools and graduated high school in 1940. From the time he was in 7th grade he knew he wanted to be in the U.S. Navy. He enlisted 10/1/1940, the day after his 18th birthday and served on the battleship USS Tennessee for over 6 years, including the battles of Pearl Harbor, Okinawa, Surigao Straits. While home on leave during Christmas 1945 he met the love of his life, Barbara Smith, and was married three months later. After service in the Navy, the couple moved back to Sterling where he attended NJC and went into business with his father in law, Ray Smith. He later purchased the business and operated Ray Smith Motor Co until retiring in 1987. Don was a passionate and accomplished golfer and played many courses in Europe and throughout the U.S. He also loved skiing, hiking, fishing and running (he broke the high school record in the mile) and outings with his family. He accomplished most of his final goals including celebrating his 70th Wedding anniversary (March 2016) and returning to Pearl Harbor for the 75th anniversary remembrance. His zest for life, compassion for others, solid principals, and commitment to family were unwavering.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Armstrong; children Brad Armstrong of Sterling, Steve Armstrong and wife Lisa of Denver; grandchildren David Armstrong of Greeley, Lori McCleskey and husband Matt McCleskey of Bentonville, Arkansas, Pierce Armstrong of Arizona State Univ., Douglas Armstrong of Seattle, Washington and Dylan Armstrong of Breckenridge; three great grandchildren, Bryant Armstrong, Brayden McCleskey, and Madison McCleskey, and two step grandchildren Leighan and Branden Zimmermann.