Don Paul Flaherty

Don Paul Flaherty passed away July 2nd, 2025, surrounded by his wife and children. He was 70. Don was born to Frank and Marian Flaherty in Pasadena California on December 18 ,1954. He was the 4th of 6 children. The family moved to Paradise in 1962, where they ran a small dairy. Growing up on the farm introduced Don to mechanics, and he never looked back. One year he took apart his sister’s new Barbie hairdryer and it never worked again. His mechanical ability grew, and he developed a fascination for cars and making them fast. This led to him building several Mustangs, which he loved to race. In high school, Don enlisted in the United States Navy, where his love of travel and cooking grew. He was based out of Pearl Harbor and worked on a submarine.

Upon returning to Utah from the Navy, he met Leslie Fuhriman and they married soon after. It turned out to be a great match, and they celebrated their 49th anniversary in June. Leslie and Don were inseparable, and together they created a thriving boat repair and service center in Smithfield. The boat shop was a family affair, with all of the children and grandchildren working there at one point in time or another. The shop has passed into the capable hands of his son and his family. The hours spent working together forged bonds that will never be broken. 

Don was fond of racing and could often be found cooking breakfast on a Sunday with boat or car races playing in the background. He had a passion and talent for building model airplanes, helicopters, and boats. He was great at starting the models, but not so great at finishing them.

During his younger years, Don worked at Zanavoo Restaurant and Sambo's (now Angie's). His love of cooking started in the Navy but grew over the years. Many birthdays were enjoyed with his signature deep fried shrimp and a steak. And Sundays won’t be the same without his French toast.

Summer weekends were often spent camping, boating, and riding in the side by side. Travel was big on Don's list after retirement, and in recent years Don and Leslie went on cruises and road trips. Lyndy was often their chauffeur and was roped into many adventures.

Family was important to Don, even though he could be a bit of a grump. Don and Leslie have 3 children. Ben (Jackie), Marci, and Lyndy. They also have 2 grandchildren, Kason (Robbie), and Kenzie. As well as many grand-dogs, and a bonus “daughter” Shannon Cardon. Don is survived by his wife and children, and his siblings. Mike (Jana) Flaherty, Gary (Barbara) Flaherty, Eileen (Paul) James and brothers-in-law Michael (Allene) Fuhriman, and Scott Fuhriman. He was proceeded in death by his parents and in-laws: Frank and Marian Flaherty, Dean and Anna Fuhriman. And a brother Danny, a sister Jan, and brother-in-law Neil Fuhriman.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. If you wish to send condolences or your favorite memory, please email flahertymarci@gmail.com. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Cache Humane Society.