Donald Kagels

Donald Leo Kagels passed from this life June 26, 2010, at home in Peoria, IL. He was born August 19, 1927, in the Grape Creek Community near Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois; the son of Lawrence Frederick Kagels, Sr., and Mamie Elmira Christenson Kagels, both of whom preceded him in death.

Donald was one of six children: Lawrence Frederick Kagels, Jr., Robert Leroy Kagels, Irene Spicer (Otto) of Danville, IL., Gerald Dean Kagels (Ann) of Westville, IL, and Clifford Carl Kagels of Covington, IN. Lawrence and Robert preceded him in death.

Donald is survived by his wife, Marjorie H. Kagels, and five daughters: Linda Sue Staley of Peru, Indiana; Rita Ann King of Hoopston, Illinois, Cathy Lynn Brown (Gary) also of Hoopston, Donna Marie Kagels of Danville, Illinois, and Christine Diane Schwer (Norbert) of Berrien Springs, Michigan; eleven grandchildren (one preceded him in death), eleven great grandchildren; fourteen nieces and nephews; and a host of friends. Donald is also survived by three step-sons: David Tibbals (Karen) of Winchester, TN., Jeffry Tibbals (Delora) of Oneida, TN., Timothy Tibbals (Dawn) of Gurnee, IL.; and three step-daughters: Karen Reed (Steve) of Peoria, IL., Tracey Stansberry (Don) of Huntsville, TN., and Glenda Gray (Christopher) of Norcross, GA.; ten step-grandchildren and his brother-in-law, Calvin (Betty) Harris, Hot Springs, AR.

Donald was a Sheet Metal Worker, with the Sheet Metal Workers Union Local 1, of Peoria. He retired in 1982.

Donald was a Navy Veteran, proudly serving his country, being honorably discharged in 1947.

Donald remained active as a volunteer in assisting churches, church schools, Maranatha (a Seventh Day Adventist organization for construction), and Habitat for Humanity with installing ductwork and furnace systems. Donald was active with the American Red Cross, driving a van in Central Illinois, and was a life-time blood donor. For many years he worked with Adventist Community Services in Peoria and surrounding area. More recently he assisted with the Church of Christ Northwest's Pantry Day each month.

Don was involved with PWP (Parents Without Partners) for several years; a square dancer with Bachelor and Bachelorettes, and Swing 'N' Travelers Square Dance Campers' Club; a member of the last Left Hand Bowling League in the United States; and loved camping with children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A visitation will be held on Friday, July 2, 2010 from 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm, with a funeral service following the visitation. Elder Archie Simmons will officiate. Cremation will be accorded following the service. Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be to Habitat for Humanity. Please visit Donald’s Life Story at www.davison-fulton.com.