Dustin Eugene Chamblee
Mar. 25, 1978- Feb. 14, 2002

Dustin was the first born of two sons to Susan (Keen) Kidder & Thomas Chamblee in the sleepy little town of Stayton, Oregon. He was joined 3 years later by his younger brother, and best friend in life, Daniel (Boone) Chamblee.

Unfortunately, Dustin grew up very fast. His father walked out of our lives when he was just 3 years old, never to be heard from again, until just one month before Dustin’s death. It was then we received word that Tom had committed suicide in Washington State. It is my greatest regret that Tom never knew or shared in the joy these two boys and their children brought into this world.

Dustin became the self appointed man of the family at a very early age and it was a role he took very seriously.

As a youth Dustin was very active in sports, playing football & baseball. In Junior High he took part in 2 band classes and participated in the High School band also. He loved both the trumpet & alto sax, and could often be found sitting outside by the creek playing it (probably much to the dismay of some of our neighbors!!)

He was active in both Boy Scouts & Civil Air Patrol, and one of his dreams was to one day be an Army Ranger. Unfortunately, this dream was crushed when he blew out his knee playing High School football.

Dustin could often times be found after school in his Grandpa’s machine shop. He started out at a very early age following his grandpa around the shop and cleaning off the machines for a quarter. As the years went by, he learned much from the Grandfather he adored and became a fine machinist. At one time he was one of the youngest employees (out of thousands) to be employed at Bell Helicopter in Texas.

Dustin was by far no angel though, and was known for his practical jokes and a quick temper. He had a great sense of humor, as long as the joke wasn’t on him!!!

Not having a father was often times very difficult on both of the boys, but we were very lucky to have some wonderful people in our lives that helped me to show them all the good things in life. Thank you all for the gift of love & friendship you gave to us.

Every spring a very dear friend took them both on camping trips. They hiked through the Redwoods of California, explored the coast of Oregon, and experienced so many awesome things. They learned many lessons that I know they both have carried with them.

Dustin was a hard-core Philadelphia Eagles fan, and was never without his Eagles hat!! This brought him many strange and often time unfriendly looks when living in the heart of Cowboy country. He didn’t care!!

I think by far though, Dustin’s greatest love was his family.

He met a woman he fell head or heels in love with in Texas and married in her in 1999. Dustin & Amanda quickly set about the task of having their own family, and were joined by three wonderful daughters, Bailey, McKienze, & Trista. It was then I believe Dustin found his true role in life…that of a loving father!! He had found what had been missing in his life.

I have never seen a man so devoted to his children. It was truly a sight to behold. When he held his babies in his arms you could see the love radiating from his very soul. He was very seldom ever seen with out one of his children with him.

It is because of that love & devotion to his children I am convinced he did not take his own life, and I will do what ever it takes, for as long as it takes to one day prove it.

Girls…..NEVER, NEVER doubt just how much your Daddy loved you & know that where ever he is he is still watching over you. Carry him with you in your heart always!