Scott Donaldson

Obituary

Scott Donaldson

February 18, 1970- October 31, 2025

Scott Donaldson, 55, of Ten Sleep, Wyoming, passed away on October 31, 2025, at the Billings Clinic Hospital with his son and family by his side. He was born on February 18, 1970, in Dargaville, New Zealand, to Albert and Betty (Gee) Donaldson.

Scott grew up in New Zealand and in his early twenties decided to chase adventure by moving to America to shear sheep with his best friends. In the early 1990s, he settled in Worland, Wyoming. Though he once planned to return to New Zealand—and even made it as far as the airport—fate had other plans. A chance encounter with a friend who convinced him to stay a little longer (and make a trip to Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm) led him to remain in the U.S. and eventually become a proud American.

A decade later, he met Susan. They married and soon welcomed their son, Max. Though the couple later divorced, Scott, Susan, and Max shared a special bond that remained strong throughout his life.

Scott worked in construction and discovered a true talent for carpentry. He loved working with his hands and took pride in his craftsmanship. No matter how busy he was, he always made time for Max—teaching him skills, sharing his wisdom, and setting an example of hard work and creativity from his talent as a gifted freehand artist.

Scott also had a passion for collecting antiques. His happy place was a yard sale, in the mountains, and being surrounded by family and friends. Always on the hunt for treasures, friends and family joked that he had a "never-ending collection of stuff," something he embraced with a smile.

Scott was outgoing, funny, and the life of any gathering. He could make anyone laugh and loved being around people. At the same time, he was determined, opinionated, and wonderfully stubborn—qualities that made him who he was.

Scott is survived by his beloved son, Max Donaldson of Newport Beach, California and countless friends and family across the world. He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Betty Donaldson.

From Max Donaldson: "If you ever need to talk to my dad find him at sunset out riding."

A celebration of life, open-house style, will be held at 12:00 PM on November 8, 2025, at Sleepy Coyote in Ten Sleep. Friends and family are invited to stop by throughout the afternoon to share memories of Scott and raise a glass to a life well lived.

Memorial donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project. Please send checks to P.O. Box 524, Worland, Wyoming 82401. Online condolences may be shared at www.bryantfuneralhomeonline.com.