Donald John Cheline

Donald John Cheline was born on December 10, 1938. However, the most important date for Don was August 17, 1956 when he married the fetching love of his life, Norma Jean Cheline. Don passed away on August 15, 2021 due to complications from leukemia. Although Don died two days before his 65th wedding anniversary, he and Norma shared a century’s worth of love.

Don helped build the church he loved, the Cornerstone Church of the Nazarene in Lake Jackson, Texas. Everyone seemed to like Don and knew that the love of God and family were the cornerstones of his life. Four children had the honor of calling him Dad, John (Jill), Jody David (David), Tona Wachtstetter (Chuck) and Mary Shine (Brett). Don was also blessed with 11 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren, a great-great grandchild and one on the way.

Don was a wonderful brother to Bob Cheline (Roselyn), Kathy Erdman (Willard), Barbara Schufeldt (Dean), Elizabeth Willy (John), Ken Cheline (Shari) and Bob “Luey” Lewis. Don was preceded in death by his parents, William and Margaret Cheline, in laws Bennett and Gertrude Mankins and by his sister, Peggy Svoboda.

After working with his father in Colorado, Don and Norma moved to Texas in 1976. He worked for BASF, had his own construction company, taught project management at Brazosport College and worked for Port Freeport before retiring. Don was a resourceful builder known for his expertise in job scheduling. He stayed very busy in retirement helping the church, those in need and his family with any type of repair or remodel.

Don enjoyed serving the church in various ministries and served as a board member for many years. He led his men’s Bible group with great lessons, lively conversation and plenty of hot coffee. Don was active with the Gideons and worked throughout his life to get a Bible to every family without one.

Don and Norma loved to travel and were always on the move and up for the next adventure. Don built an elaborate woodshop and made beautiful tables and crafts for family and friends. His rich, deep voice made the Bible come alive for his family during Christmas and Easter readings and even in his daily devotionals. Don cherished Norma, his entire family and every moment they spent together.

Visitation will be held on Friday, August 20th, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Cornerstone Church of the Nazarene at 3007 TX-332 in Lake Jackson, Texas. The funeral service will immediately follow visitation and interment will follow at Restwood Memorial Park in Clute. Don’s grandsons will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cornerstone Church of the Nazarene’s Bible Ministry.