Donald Henry Wolfe

Born on September 30, 1921, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, he was the son of the late Henry and Elizabeth Wolfe. As a young boy growing up on the family farm, Don's fascination with flight began in 1935 when he spotted an Army balloon near Aberdeen. That moment sparked a lifelong passion for aviation that would shape his future and lead to a distinguished military career.

After graduating from high school in 1939, he enlisted in the United States Army. He was initially assigned to the 3rd Infantry, Company I, and later transferred to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, with the Quartermaster Corps. Following America's entry into World War II, he pursued his dream of becoming a pilot and entered Army Air Corps flight training, earning his wings in October 1942.

He trained on the Martin B-26 Marauder at MacDill Air Base in Tampa, Florida. Known for its speed and power, the B-26 was a demanding aircraft that required exceptional skill to fly. Don's natural ability and determination helped him master the aircraft and prepare for combat service.

In May 1943, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant with the 391st Bomb Group. In January 1944, he and his crew deployed to England, where they were stationed at RAF Matching Green. From there, he flew combat missions over France, Belgium, Holland, and Germany in support of Allied operations during World War II.

On June 6, 1944, Lieutenant Wolfe participated in air operations supporting the Allied invasion of Normandy on D-Day. By August 1944, he had completed 67 combat missions, demonstrating courage, skill, and unwavering dedication to his fellow airmen and his country.

After returning to the United States, he continued serving by towing aerial targets in an AT-23 trainer aircraft. Following the war, he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Indiana Technical College (Indiana Tech) in 1951.

Lieutenant Colonel Wolfe continued his military career for a total of 25 years, including four years in the Reserves. Throughout his service he held numerous assignments, including duty at Bakalar Air Base in Columbus, Indiana, and service as an instructor teaching aviation-related subjects for the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) at Indiana University and Baer Field in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

His distinguished career culminated in retirement from the United States Air Force in 1964 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. During his years as a military aviator, he accumulated an impressive 4,720 hours of flight time. His service was recognized with numerous honors, including the Air Force Longevity Service Award with Four Oak Leaf Clusters and the Air Medal with Twelve Oak Leaf Clusters. He was also awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Following retirement, he remained busy and active in several careers. Don was a proud member of American Legion Post 47. He was an avid bowler, continuing to bowl until he was 103 years old.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Alice Wolfe, who passed away on February 11, 2009. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Elizabeth Wolfe, and his siblings, Marion Albertus, Dee Kreger, and Maurice Wolfe.

He is survived by his daughter, Susan (Richard) Holmes; grandchildren, Stephanie (Alan Henschen) Milentis, Shane (Heather) Silver, Laura Cisler and Stephanie (BJ) Thorne; great-grandchildren, Cora, Emily, Nick, CJ, Evan and Gus.

Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at Hockemeyer & Miller Funeral Home, 6131 St. Joe Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46835, with calling one hour prior.

Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday, June 29, 2026 also at the funeral home.

Burial with military honors will take place at Highland Park Cemetery in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family in care of Don's legacy.