He graduated from Canal Fulton High School in 1951; served in the U.S. Army 1954-1956. He graduated from Kent State University with an Associate Degree and was employed by General Tire in Akron, retiring after 36 years. He worked in their Tech Service Department and received 11 patents for his findings in moldings and plastics which are used in the automobile industry today.
After retirement, he volunteered many Tuesdays at Pegasus Horse Therapy Farm in Hartville. He was a life member of the Stark County Power Association and participated in parades and tractor pulls. He restored many antique farm tractors; giving each grandchild one of the tractors. He found and restored the 1939 Ford tractor which his father had bought new, and Don learned to drive it when he was only 6 years old.
He was a member of St. Jacob Lutheran Church in Jackson Township where he married Margaret (Geib) on September 16, 1956. He is survived by Margaret, and they are blessed with a son, David (Lynn), daughter, Heidi (Tim); 3 grandchildren, Heather (Brett), Kevin (Jaime), Danny (Mandy); 6 great-grandchildren, Morgan, Myla, Maddex, Dean, Chelsea, and Carter.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Glen; sister, Flo Schotsch and her husband, Burt. Survived by sister-in-law, Pat (Reichenbach) Mick, and many nephews and nieces.
Thanks to the Aultman Hospice Team and to St. Luke's nursing staff for caring for Don with serene dignity.
According to his wishes, there will be no services. Rest in the Lord. Private burial.
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