Donald F. Averitt

Donald F. Averitt, age 82, of Henderson, Nevada passed away on Sunday, August 25, 2024. He was born July 19, 1942 in Indianapolis, Indiana to his parents Carol Maxwell Averitt and Nellie (Hanna) Averitt. Donald was raised in Indiana with his younger sister, Karen. Donald learned about loss early in life, when his mother passed away; he was four years old. While his father remarried later on, the experience of heartbreak so early in life led to Donald's ability to have compassion for others and an understanding of human frailty. He decided early on that he would live his life to its fullest enjoying the time he spent with his good friends Eddie Fisher and Terry Black. In high school, Donald wrestled for the school team, and played baseball. He graduated from Broad Ripple High School in 1960.

Donald went on to continue his education. He went to school for a couple of years prior to dropping out and enlisting in the US Marine Corps in 1962. He served honorably as a motor vehicle operator for four years, achieving the rank of Corporal, and being awarded the National Defense and Good Conduct Medals; he was honorably discharged in 1966. He was always grateful that he served when he did, as had he waiting until he completed his schooling he would have likely been sent to Vietnam. While he always felt like it was a hand of God that he did not go, as he unfortunately lost his cousin and many good friends.

Following his service, Donald would settle back into civilian life and continue his education obtaining his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Purdue University. He would meet Kathy Mattingly in 1967, and the couple would get married April 26, 1968 in Carmel, Indiana. The young couple would be blessed with two daughters. And as their families grew, they would be blessed with 5 grandchildren, and six great grandchildren. While their marriage did not work, the couple would remain friends the rest of their lives.

To support his growing family, Donald went to work for the Federal Aviation Administration in 1970. Donald had a successful career as an Air Traffic Controller, retiring after 27 years of service in 1997.

Donald was a compassionate and devoted father, grandfather, and great grandfather whom centered his life around setting an example for his family. He was a man of principal and faith, where he was a member of Life Springs Baptist Church. He enjoyed playing pool, betting the Horses in Santa Anita, Hollywood Park, and Delmar, and Apologetics. He also enjoyed sports, playing Golf, and watching Golf and Football.

Donald lived his life to the fullest, cherishing every moment with those he loved. He was compassionate, kind, always looking out for others; he will truly be missed.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his daughters: Nicole Barnum (John) and Christina Roberts (Gary); his sister, Karen Baker; his five grandchildren: Devan Barnum (Megan), Courtney Farrington (Brian), Toby Barnum (Mercedes), Delanie Wichers (Zach), and Chase Roberts; six great grandchildren: Amelie Barnum, Atticus Barnum, Eli Farrington, Cole Farrington, Benjamin Wichers and Logan Barnum; one nephew, Jib Baker; and three nieces: Dawn Bruh, Tammy Moreno, and Eva Baker.

A visitation for Donald will be held Sunday, September 8, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Funeral services will be Monday, September 9, 2024 beginning at 11:30 AM both at Palm Mortuary - Henderson, 800 South Boulder Highway, Henderson, NV 89015. Donald will be laid to rest with Military Honors at 1:20 PM at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 1900 Veterans Memorial Dr, Boulder City, NV 89005.