Donald Frederick Wilson

Don was born on December 3, 1953, in Fort Lee, Virginia, to the late Jack C. Wilson and Alice I. Wilson. One of five boys, he was raised in a close-knit family and carried those values of loyalty and connection throughout his life.

Affectionately known as “Uncle Donnie,” he shared especially close relationships with his nieces and nephews, who brought him great pride and joy. He was a 1972 graduate of Gahanna Lincoln High School and had a lifelong love of cars, along with a passion for aviation, golfing, and boating- interests that friends and family always associated with him.

Don had an outgoing personality and made friends wherever he went. In 1974, he began his career as an international flight attendant with US Air/American Airlines, a role that allowed him to travel the world and connect with people from all walks of life. He also found passion in obtaining his private pilot’s license and becoming a flight instructor. He embraced those experiences fully and was known for his warmth, humor, and genuine kindness.

He is survived by his devoted partner of 43 years and beloved spouse, Craig Phipps, whom he married on December 30, 2017. He is also survived by his brothers, Jack J. Wilson (Dona), Robert D. Wilson, Rodney P. Wilson (Pamela S. Halsey), and Roger A. Wilson (Kim). Along with his aunts, Mary Jane Morehouse (Lynn) and Charlotte Bartunek.

Don is further survived by his in-laws, Larry and Gloria Phipps; brothers-in-law, Doug (Gloria) Phipps, Jeff (Laura) Phipps, and Geof (Brooke) Phipps; and sister-in-law, Lorie (Doug) Patton.

Along with many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Debra Stitt Wilson; his aunt, Barbara “Bobbie” Bartunek; his uncle, Joe Bartunek; and his aunt, Louise Gildenmeister (Butch).

Don will be remembered for his kindness, his vibrant personality, and the genuine connections he made throughout his life.

Family and friends may gather for visitation on Monday, May 4 from 5:00–8:00 PM at Schoedinger Margarum Northeast, 1051 E Johnstown Road, Gahanna, Ohio, 614-939-4558. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, May 5 at 10:30 AM at the funeral home with burial to immediately follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, 5600 E Broad St. Columbus, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to assist with funeral expenses at the following link https://www.spotfund.com/story/596d763c-d908-42bf-a181-7a51cceb9cdc