A skilled snowboarder, he was constantly in search of the best powder to shred and recently lived through both the 2010 earthquake in Chile and the 2011 earthquake in Japan while on snowboarding trips with friends. Dusten never took for granted the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of his surroundings and spent much of his free time snowboarding, hiking and camping. He had a true connection with the natural world, and was at his happiest when he was outdoors with his friends. Dusten had a big heart and big stories, and instantly made friends wherever he went. Anyone who ever met Dusten can attest to his hilarious sense of humor and infectious laugh. Dusten was a notorious practical joker, loved giving people nicknames and making up silly raps, and brought a zest for fun and adventure into all of his friendships. In part because of his ability to make people laugh, Dusten had a wide circle of friends all over the world that he truly cherished. He felt true happiness was measured by his relationships, and brought his love, generosity and fierce loyalty to all those he cared for. Many of his friends did not know that he suffered from a seizure disorder, as his vivacious attitude and vibrant spirit overshadowed his disability.
Earlier this year, Dusten underwent an intensive brain surgery and ,as far as anyone knew, had made a complete and miraculous recovery. His passing was as much of a surprise to his doctors as it was to his family and friends. After the remarkable journey of his sickness, surgery and recovery, he was truly enjoying his family and his friends and looking forward to living life seizure-free.

Dusten was planning more trips to Chile and Japan, trying to learn Spanish, and getting excited for a full season at Mt. Hood. Because of all that he had been through both before and after the surgery, Dusten never missed an opportunity to enjoy life. He often said, “Its not what you have…its what you can go and do.” Dusten was a survivor; a fighter with a kind and gentle spirit, who gave people the gift of laughter and great stories to tell. He touched the lives of so many in his short 35 years. He was deeply loved and will be deeply missed.

Born: November 14, 1976 Death: October 18, 2012 Joyce and Keith Yam, Mother and Stepfather Ken and Kathy Palanuk, Father and Stepmother Jordan, Brother Sarah, Sister Travis, Stepbrother Many life-long friends

Memorial Service

Thursday October 25, 2012 , 10.;00am at Holy Trinity church

A Celebration of Life at the McMenamins Kennedy School on October 26 at 6:00 p.m. Share your thoughts and memories in the guestbook.