Donald Winferd Wilcox

Donald W. Wilcox, 80, of North Fort Myers, Florida, formerly of New Brighton, passed away on Wednesday, September 16, 2015 at Heritage Valley, Beaver. Donald was born January 12, 1935, on the family farm in Marion Township, son of the late Winferd and Ethel (Bernd) Wilcox. Following the untimely death of his mother, his father later remarried and Lorraine (Yagelowich) Wilcox became the nurturing mother through his adolescent years.

Donald proudly served his country with the U.S. Army. After his honorable discharge he returned home to begin a long and rewarding career as an electrician with the IBEW Local Union 712 out of Beaver.

He was a self-taught skilled craftsman. Family and friends will forever treasure some of Don’s finest wood crafts. He also enjoyed bowling and golfing with the Senior League at Blackhawk. Don was a loyal Blue Lodge member of Union Lodge #259 F. & A.M., New Brighton where he was a Past Master; and a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite member of the New Castle Consistory. Always civic minded, he was a member of the New Brighton Lions Club for a number of years. Donald was a faithful member of the New Brighton United Methodist Church and associate member at the Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, North Fort Myers.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister-in-law: Yildiz Wilcox; and a nephew: Earl Wilcox.

Donald is survived by his loving wife of 58 years: Donna Lee (Robinson) Wilcox; two sons and daughters-in-law: Kenneth and Nancy Wilcox, New Brighton; Douglas and Kelly Wilcox, New Brighton; one daughter: Barbara Wilcox, Beaver; six grandchildren and two great grandchildren; three brothers and a sister-in-law: Thomas Wilcox, Beaver; John and Michelle Wilcox, New Brighton; David Wilcox, New Brighton; his sister and brother-in-law: Mary and Michael Hrotic, New Brighton; several nieces and nephews.

In honor of his wishes, cremation arrangements are by SAUL-GABAUER FUNERAL HOME, INC. with interment at Grove Cemetery, New Brighton.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held 11 a.m., Saturday, September 26, 2015 at the New Brighton United Methodist Church with the Rev. R. Scott Berkley, Pastor, officiating. In lieu of flowers, and in loving memory of Donald W. Wilcox, memorial contributions may be directed to the American Lung Association, the New Brighton United Methodist Church or to the Good Shepherd United Methodist Church of North Fort Myers, Florida.

On line condolences may be offered at www.saul-gabauer.com