Donald E Baldwin

Donald Earl Baldwin, 91, of Coal Valley Illinois passed away on Saturday, July 5, 2025. A memorial service will be held at Colona United Methodist Church on Wednesday, July 9th, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Burial at the Rock Island National Cemetery and a Celebration of Life Service in his hometown of St. Louis will be held at a later date.

Don was born on June 5, 1934 to Irene (Robinson) and Harvey Baldwin in St. Louis, Missouri. He graduated from Normandy High School and received his electrical engineering degree from Washington University in St. Louis. In 1956, Don married his wife Emily, who was the love of his life for the next 68 years.

Don’s fascination with flight led to a career at McDonnell-Douglas Aircraft. Early on, he contracted with NASA for work on Project Gemini, which took the family to Cocoa Beach, Florida and Houston, Texas. Later work included the F-15 program. Don served proudly in the Air Force where he attained the rank of captain.

Don was a voracious reader, and wherever he went, there was a book, magazine, or newspaper in his hand. He enjoyed telling stories, often shared with a dose of subtle humor or accompanied by a hand-drawn cartoon.

At home, he could often be found whistling in his woodworking shop, planning or implementing whatever project Emily had dreamed of. In retirement, they built their dream home in Foristell, Missouri, which they enjoyed for 21 years.

Don was a devoted Christian and family man. He was happiest spending time with his wife and children, teaching his grandchildren, or holding his great grandchildren in his arms.

Don is survived by his sister, Marilyn Carlson, his wife Emily (Steffen,) daughters Cheryl Ballantyne (John) and Renee Baldwin, grandchildren Jared, Ryan, Aaron, Kayla, and Cameron, and great grandchildren Djera and Amari.