A cherished member of his family and community, Don was known for his kindness, generosity, honesty, and unwavering commitment to those around him.
Born to the late Earl and Gladys Coker, Don grew up with a strong sense of community and service, which he carried throughout his life. He was a proud owner and operator of KwikTune KwikLube, a family business he successfully ran for 50 years. Through this, he built lasting relationships and became a cornerstone in the lives of many.
Don was a man of many passions. One of his greatest joys was country dancing. Whether teaching, DJ’ing, or simply dancing himself, he was a fixture on the dance floor nearly every weekend, and his deep love for listening to live music, and his passion for dance brought smiles to many.
In his early years, Don could be found at the roller skating rink twisting, turning, and jumping. You would also find him at the racetrack weekly as his love for three quarter midget car racing brought him much joy and excitement. Later in life, he was passionate about building and racing slot cars and would not hesitate to assist other race car drivers anytime they needed assistance. Don was an avid golfer. He could often be found on the greens, enjoying the game he loved (even when his score never seemed to get any better). Don loved to fish, and would spend countless hours by the water (not catching fish of course), and he loved playing softball and volleyball, where he fostered camaraderie with teammates and friends. Don, a Proud Eagle Scout, dedicated his time as a Boy Scout Leader, guiding young minds with the same principles and values that he lived by. He preached to his children, nephew, and grandchildren to live by the golden rule and stood hard by those principles himself.
In addition to all of his many hobbies, Don had a deep enthusiasm for organizing and attending his class reunions, which kept him connected with old friends. In a testament to his selflessness, Don was a Hero to the Red Cross for donating more than 50 gallons of blood throughout his life, a true reflection of his generous spirit.
Don is survived by his loving children, Tiffany (Joshua) Hunt, Michael (Saraiah) Coker, and Joshua (Jamie) Newsum; his treasured grandchildren, Clayton, Parker, Lorelai, and Fitzgerald; his devoted sisters, Catherine (Bernie) Creighton and Patricia (William) Stone, Nephew Paul (Sarah) Creighton, Niece Miley, and Nephew Owen. He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Gladys Coker and his Brother-in-Law Esequiel Bernardo “Bernie” Rangel.
Don’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the entire community he so dearly loved.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, August 22nd from 4pm to 7pm. The funeral service will take place the following day, Friday, August 23rd at Noon, both at Runge Mortuary in Davenport, IA, followed by his burial at Davenport Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to CASI in Davenport, IA where you would have found Don playing cards every Wednesday and Friday afternoon or DJ’ing at their monthly country dance.
