He was a graduate of Manual High School and attended Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois. He was employed by Caterpillar Tractor Company and spent 35 years in the Orders Division of Treasury Department.
He was a Korean War veteran and member of Bethany Christian Church in Lakeland. He also enjoyed attending the BYKOTA class at First United Methodist Church.
Don was a blessing to many; a kind, loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend. He embraced life fully and found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He taught how to live with a grateful heart. He was a faithful servant who loved the Lord fully. His positive outlook inspired all who knew him. He had a fierce sense of humor and a playful spirit. He welcomed everyone with his infectious smile and worm embrace. The life he lived will forever inspire and guide us.
He preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Catherine (Szentes) Grachek, his wives, Bettye Cowan Grackek and Martha Sheffield Grachek; his brothers, Frank, Joe, John, Michael, Daniel and Jack, sisters, Rose and Edith, and sons-in-law, K. Daniel Smith and Danny Glenn.
Left to cherish his memory are daughters, Catherine Glenn, Nancy (Max) Hodges, Laurie Grachek and grandchildren, Thomas Glenn (Christy), Jeremy (Elyse) Glenn, Ryan Glenn, Andrew (Kristin) Hodges, Benjamin (Kaitlin) Hodges, Tyler Davis, Jessie Davis and four great-grandchildren; Charlie, Roan, Riley and Lucas. He was also Papa Don to Angie (Chad) Dulaney, Martha Ann (Ken) Groendal, Dean (Christy) Fox, Elizabeth (Doug) Hyland, and their children and grandchildren. He was loved by many nieces, nephews and cousins, and treasured by his “sunshine” Tillie Brooks.
Memorials may be made to Bethany Church in Lakeland, Florida.
A Celebration of Life has been scheduled for Saturday, October 30, 2021.
Burial will be at Swan Lake Cemetery in Peoria, Illinois.
Condolences may be made to the family at www.heathfuneralchapel.com
