Donald "Donnie" Gene Kocar

He was born on December 26, 1968, in Gibson City, Illinois, to Robert and Faye Shelton Kocar. Donnie married the love of his life, Shannon Crow, and together they shared a life rooted in love.

Throughout his life, Donnie consistently displayed his hardworking and selfless nature. He served on the Towanda Fire Department for 15 years. His time spent serving his community and assisting friends in their time of need was something he cherished and remembered fondly.

Donnie was employed in the grain department at multiple local elevators throughout the area for over 25 years, working tirelessly to provide the best for his family. His dedication, effort, and pride were recognized by all those around him.

Donnie found great joy in his family. He was often referred to as “Tuna” by siblings and close childhood friends. To him, time spent with his loved ones was never time wasted. A devoted sports fan, he was a lifelong supporter of the Denver Broncos and enjoyed watching WWE Wrestling. Whether he was watching on his TV at home, or watching the games and events in person, he was guaranteed to be with his children. He also treasured time spent riding his Harley. Donnie valued the days he would go on road trips with his son, savoring the outdoors and open roads.

His steady presence was felt most clearly on the field. Donnie coached his daughter’s softball team and his son’s baseball team, giving his time with devotion and enthusiasm. He firmly stood by his coaching philosophy: “It’s not about the score, it’s about having fun.” Ensuring that each player felt confident and entered the field with a smile was his number one priority.

Once grandchildren came along, his happiness only grew. He could often be found at their games, cheering them on with the wholehearted enthusiasm that came so naturally to him. When he wasn’t in the stands, you could find him building blocks, playing games, solving puzzles, and holding each second with his grandchildren dear to his heart. Affectionately known as “Pow Pow” by his grandchildren, Donnie carried that role with deep pride and tender dedication.

In 1992, Donnie married his best friend and soulmate, Shannon. A nod to their favorite Disney movie, Up, Donnie and Shannon fondly referred to each other as “Ellie” and “Mr. Fredricksen” because of the boundless love they had for each other and the adventures they shared. Throughout their 33 years of marriage, they built the love of a lifetime.

Donnie leaves to cherish his memory, wife, Shannon Kocar; children, Donald “DJ” (Abigail Terven) Kocar Jr, Hannah Kocar and Hailey Kocar; grandchildren, Weston Hilst, Raelynn Hilst and Kason Kocar; sister, Sharon (Dave) Anderson; brothers, John (Mary Jo) Kocar and Alan (Marcia) Kocar; sister-in-law, Shelly Crow; and a host of family and friends.

Donnie now rests with his loved ones who preceded him in death, his father and mother; father-in-law and mother-in-law, William “Bill” and Barbara “Barb” Crow; sister, Cheryl Kocar; brother, James “Jim” Kocar and a son, Robert “Robbie” W. Kocar.

Donnie’s presence was unforgettable and his place in our hearts can never be filled. He will truly be missed by all who love him.

His funeral will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at East Lawn Funeral Home, Bloomington, IL, where visitation will begin at 10:00 am. Interment will immediately follow services at East Lawn Memorial Gardens, Bloomington, IL.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family.

To share condolences with the family or view his online tribute, please visit EastLawnMemorial.com