Silen retires as chief deputy assessor

She truly enjoyed her job over the years. Dealing with irate tax payers can be a negative situation, but Donna found it as a challenge and delight to provide service and understanding of the law and programs to the public.

When reflecting, she speaks fondly of the people she has been able to assist over the years.

Assessor Van Vandenberg said, "Klickitat County has benefited from Donna's public service. She will be missed."

She enjoyed administering the exemption program that lowered taxes for many of Klickitat County property owners.

As Elsie Schank stated, "We will truly miss her friendly smile and gracious help. We just love her."

Donna's community service included two terms as a director with the Goldendale School Board. She continues to serve on the Business Advisory Board for the high school and is a past-president of Goldendale Kiwanis and East Klickitat Women's Republican Club. For the past three years, she has assisted with her husband Keith at the Goldendale Primary School as grandparents in the classroom.

Her love of music has involved Donna in many community singing performances such as the annual Community Cantata. The Silens are members of Christ the King Lutheran church and Donna has been involved in the music program for years.

She will be joining her husband Keith who recently retired after 34 years with the PUD and 35 years with the Goldendale City Fire Department. With seven grandchildren, retirement will be grand!

Friends are invited to the celebration of retirement with Keith and Donna Silen on Saturday, April 26, from 2 to 5 p.m. at MacAdam Hall-Lutheran Church in Goldendale.