Donald Gene Quast

Don was born to Ruby Angeline Romans Quast and Elmer Wilhelm Irwin Quast on September 8, 1931 in Minier, Illinois. He was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, Grandpa Don-Don, coworker, and friend.

He married Frances Thelma Dunbar in Fayetteville, North Carolina on April 2, 1953 and she preceded him in death. Later Don married Marjorie Frick on December 8, 1993 in Peoria. Marjorie preceded him in death on July 11, 2020.

Don’s first enlistment in the United States Army occurred in 1947, when he became a member of the 9843 Technical Services Engineer Unit, operating heavy equipment. He re-enlisted in 1950, becoming a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne, after receiving training at Fort Bragg. After these two stints, he retired from the Army in 1953, after four and a half years of service. Once out of the service, he drove a city bus for a year and then worked for Kroger. He then joined the Peoria Police Department in 1956 and retired in 1983 after achieving the rank of lieutenant. Don was voted Policeman of the Year in 1963 by his fellow police officers. He received his award from the Rotary Club and was interviewed by Channel 19 news. Don started the Division of the Training Office, and he served in Administration his final ten years in the Peoria Police Department. Don stated his proudest moments in his working career were when his “wings” were pinned on in the Airborne, qualified for Gliderman’s Wings, and when he received his badge from the Peoria Police Department.

Don had pleasant memories growing up with a loving and kind mother and fond memories of his siblings. Also he remembered going to the Brookfield Zoo and Springfield Lincoln sites with his Uncle Vertner and two oldest siblings as a child. He also spoke of his mother’s sister, Aunt Sylvia “Jewell” who was a big part of his upbringing. In later years, he remembered the wonderful times he shared with Margie at their home in Bonita Springs, Florida, as some of his happiest days where they enjoyed travel, dinner shows, and sharing quality time together.

Don was a loyal partner and spouse, serviceman, and coworker. He was proud to protect and serve with his brethren in both the armed forces and the Peoria Police Department. Don’s word and honesty were his benchmark and moral compass that ruled and guided him in his life. He was compassionate and caring to friends and neighbors alike, and at one time opening his own home to his neighbor, (Sammy). He helped him as much as possible, and Sammy later lived with Don and his wife in residence. Also Don and his wife opened their home to nursing students at Methodist and their hospitality provided comfort and respite while in training.

Don was an excellent problem solver and if he saw something that needed done, he was forthright in solving it, logical, and efficient. He wrote grants for the police department that were complimented and recognized by a New York City police administrator. You could always count on Don for a “job well done” whatever it may be. He accomplished much in his 90+ years of living and used every asset, talent, and his educational background to the fullest. God blessed him with these attributes and he returned them in kind throughout his life. What more can be said of a fine human being whose life was well lived with honor and dignity and made such a difference in the lives of others whether it be family, friend, or career.

Don is survived by sister, Norma Sullens, Coloma, Michigan and brother John, Temple, Texas. He was preceded in death by sisters Marilyn “Lynn” Taylor, Peggy Jankovitz, and brothers Wendell “Bud”, Robert, William, and James Quast.

When Don married Margie, he was welcomed into her family and dearly loved by her son, Dr. Anthony Agatucci (Patricia), granddaughter, Amy Agatucci (Dr. Ryan Gobble), and he was the most very very special Grandpa Don-Don to Griffin and Grayson and adored by them.

There are not enough words or accolades to be bestowed on Don’s neighbors on Capitol Drive (and beyond), who were a constant source of comfort and support. They helped him in any and every way possible, so he was able to maintain his independence and remain in the home he shared with Margie. Don was so very grateful to them and wanted to make sure that they were aware of his heartfelt gratitude and we offer a sincere thank you to all. Their kindness and compassionate care will never be forgotten. With loss and sadness, it will always be a source of comfort to remember these kind people, and the family will be sustained by the memories of their acts of care, compassion, and thoughtfulness in the love of another human being.

Per Don’s request, his burial and graveside services will be private. Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in his memory. St. Jude is currently assisting in the safe transfer of children from Ukraine to a safe environment, so they can continue their treatment, chemotherapy, and receive care and support for their family.