Donald "Don" Frank Mason Sr.

Donald “Don” Frank Mason Sr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed peacefully into God’s embrace on October 31, 2024, at the age of 81. Born and raised in South Bend, Indiana, Don lived a life defined by hard work, devotion, and love.

The second oldest of nine children, Don’s commitment to success and perseverance showed early on. After battling polio twice as a child, he was determined not to let anything hold him back. He worked his way through school, graduating from Saint Joseph Catholic High School in South Bend, and later, earning a degree in Manufacturing Engineering from the University of Illinois Chicago. Known for his remarkable work ethic, Don proudly declared he would “never retire,” and was actively working up until the day before his hospitalization. His dedication to his work and to those around him left an indelible mark.

Don’s greatest joy was his family, whom he loved intensely. His wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the center of his world, and he put their needs above his own, no matter the sacrifice. His unwavering faith gave him strength and a deep trust in God’s plan.

He was especially passionate about family traditions. Whether it was cheering for Notre Dame football, the Halloween chili and pumpkin-painting contests at Papa and Gigi’s house, or the annual “Mason Family Christmas,” Don cherished the simple joy of gathering with his loved ones. He was happiest when he was with his family, surrounded by the people he held dear.

Don also found joy in golfing with his brothers, watching Notre Dame games, and spending time with friends over a beer at the Eagles. A musician at heart, he loved playing the drums, a passion he carried from his youth when he played in a band. His favorite moments were spent by the ocean, listening to the breeze and watching the sunset with his beloved wife, Sue, during their winters in Florida.

A man of exceptional values and integrity, Don treated everyone with kindness and respect. He lived by the Golden Rule, treating each person as someone special. With his warm heart and gentle spirit, Don never met a stranger. Those who knew him felt blessed by his kindness and left with a lasting impression of his generosity and grace.

Don is survived by his wife of nearly 59 years, Sylvia “Sue” Mason (nee Warner); his children, Don Mason Jr. (Kristen), Heather Schimmele (Steve), and Nicole Korte (Brent); his grandchildren, Morgan Nierman (Rob), Masie Casaburo (Trey), Colton Mason, Marinn Korte, Landin Korte, Parker Schimmele, Brianna Mason and Alex Korte, and his great-grandchildren, Jamie and Teddy Casaburo, and Wyndham Nierman. He is also survived by his siblings, Richard Mason (Margo), Robert Mason (Dixie), Bill Mason (Sue), Debbie Galvas (Nick), Gary Mason (Sue), and David Mason (Christine); as well as 17 nieces and nephews, 42 great-nieces and nephews, and 11 great-great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Gertrude Mason (nee Nejman); and his brothers, Terry Mason (Karen) and Mike Mason.

A visitation will be held on Friday, November 8, 2024, from 4-7 p.m. at D.O. McComb Funeral Homes - Pine Valley Park, 1320 E. Dupont Rd., Fort Wayne, IN.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Arcola, with calling beginning at 9:00 a.m.

A Celebration of Life luncheon will follow immediately at the church, and everyone is welcome to join us in honoring Don’s memory.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Parkview Hospice or Matthew 25 in Don’s memory.

Don was truly “one of the great ones.” He leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, and strength that will carry on through generations. We love you most, most, Dad — forever.