Mr. Donald Lee Denelsbeck

Donald Lee Denelsbeck, age 73, passed away on October 19, 2025, in Bartlett, TN. He was born in Harlingen, TX on November 22, 1951, Thanksgiving Day-a fitting day for someone who always had a healthy appetite for life (and for seconds). The proud parents were the late George David and Anna Clara (Wright) Denelsbeck.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 26, from 6:00pm-8:00pm at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 3700 N Germantown Pkwy, Bartlett, TN, 38133. A mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00am, Monday, October 27, at the Catholic Church of the Nativity, 5955 St Elmo Rd, Bartlett, TN, 38135.

Don grew up in Harlingen before his family moved to Oklahoma City, OK where he attended high school. He went on to attend Arizona State University on a wrestling scholarship. During a summer break back home, he met the love of his life, Marie. So that he could be nearer to Marie, Don transferred to the University of Oklahoma for his senior year where he completed his degree. Eager for adventure, Don and Marie married and moved to Memphis, TN to work for Nike. In later years Don traveled extensively working for auto parts companies, a perfect fit for his outgoing nature and gift of conversation. Don stayed active and social even in retirement, running his own pressure washing business that kept him connected to his community. His Catholic faith was of the utmost importance to him.

Family was always at the center of Don’s life. He and Marie shared 51 wonderful years together and raised their son, Nicholas David (“Nick”), who is married to Ashley (Cole). Don’s grandchildren Mason and Mia brought him endless joy and pride. Recently, he and Marie were honored as the longest-married couple at a niece’s wedding—celebrated, fittingly, as the last ones on the dance floor.

Don was preceded in death by his beloved son Jay (April 16,1983), and by his parents, George and Anna Denelsbeck.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Marie; his son, Nick and daughter-in-law, Ashley; and his treasured grandchildren, Mason and Mia; his brother, Ronnie (June), Jones, OK; and sister, Joann Rohrbacker (John), Broken Arrow, OK .

Don will be remembered for his humor, his easy charm, and the way he could make anyone feel like a friend. His kindness and energy will be deeply missed by all who knew him.