ATHERTON, CA, Dec. 12, 2022 - IIABCal lost one of its prominent leaders and a true industry legend with the passing of Past President Donald Way Nov. 12th. He was 77.
Way’s commitment to the Independent Agency System spanned his professional insurance career and his leadership forged important changes to the association while serving as IIABCal President in 2001, as well as Vice President, Secretar-Treasurer, Board Director, and as chair of the organization’s Investment and Blue Ribbon Conference committees. In 2003, Way received the Ramsden-Sullivan Memorial Award, the most prestigious honor IIABCal bestows on an individual who exemplifies the highest caliber of service to the Independent Agency System, the insurance industry, and the community.
A Life Well Lived
“There is no doubt that Don Way enjoyed a life well lived, and everyone who knew Don is the better for it,” said Jerry O’Kane, former IIABCal Chief Executive Officer. “At his memorial service, speakers representing each of the important segments of his life commemorated his successes, his values, and his important contributions. I am one of the many who benefited greatly from Don’s knowledge, generous nurturing, leadership abilities and his abiding friendship, and I am profoundly sad to see him go.”
“Don could always be counted on to contribute his energy and his intellect to the betterment of the industry," IIABCal Past President Stan Loar said. "He was extremely active in the 'Brokers and Agents Associations' no matter which iteration was leading the industry. On a personal note, Don was a good friend and will be missed by all of us. The industry is better because of him.“
Former California Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner eulogized about his long relationship with Don and their work together — which included opening the Palo Alto Chapter of the Junior Chamber (Jaycees) to female members. Poizner said Way’s action led to a lawsuit by the U.S. Junior Chamber in a case that went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court and produced a landmark decision prohibiting gender discrimination.
Born in Boston, Massachusetts to Serviss and Ginny, Don graduated from Phillips Academy, Andover in 1963. Shortly after starting his degree at Stanford University, Don enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served in combat in Vietnam. Upon returning, Don re-registered at Stanford and graduated cum laude in 1970.
Don then began his career and became CEO and Chairman of Thoits Insurance Service. He grew the firm from eight to ninety-eight people and transitioned the company into an employee-owned enterprise. After Don retired, he founded Don Way Litigation to serve as an expert witness.
Outside of his career achievements, Don was an active community member. He served as an elected official on the Palo Alto School Board for nine years, three of which he served as president. He also served as a dedicated member of the Palo Alto Jaycees, where he met his wife-to-be. Don was never happier than when he was surrounded by family in Hawaii.
Military Honors
A memorial service held last week included a U.S. Marine Corp. Honor Guard, in full dress uniform, who played Taps, and solemnly presented a folded American Flag to his family.
Don is survived by Sylvie, his beloved wife of more than 40 years, his children and their families: Nate and Toni, their child Alexander; Nick and his wife Brittany; and Ted and Tate, their children, Parker and Teddy Jr.; and an adoring extended family of siblings, cousins, nephews and nieces.
Late in life, Don converted to Judaism and found comfort, support, and friendship in the Beth Am congregation in Los Altos Hills, where the service was held. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Andover and the Military or the Marder Endowment At Congregation Beth Am.