Donald Eugene Metzler

Born September 8, 1944, in Goshen, Indiana, to Titus and Esther Metzler, Don grew up on a farm near Goshen with his sisters, Sharon Erb, Pat Stahly, and Margaret Wenger. A 10-year member of 4-H and FFA, he received state and national awards for his dedication and achievements. He graduated from New Paris High School in 1962 and attended Manchester University.

Don proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1965 to 1967, earning the National Defense Service Medal and a marksmanship award. He worked at Goshen Rubber Company for 35 years, advancing from the factory floor to plant manager and senior management. He later served as a project manager for GDC in Goshen before retiring in 2010. In retirement, he delivered flowers for Baker's Acres in Angola and enjoyed making customers smile.

An avid sports fan, Don cheered for Notre Dame football and Indiana University basketball and football. He and his wife, Nancy, enjoyed traveling and cruising and supporting their grandchildren in their activities. He appreciated life's simple pleasures: country drives, meals from the grill, a perfect tee shot, and cocktails on the patio. Don never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone.

Don is survived by Nancy, the love of his life for 40 years; daughters Kimberly Stump Combs and Mindy Craig (Todd); grandchildren Alex Stump, Jackson Combs, Olivia Craig, Lily Craig, and William Craig; stepchildren Todd Martin and Dawn Nilson and her children, Nick Nilson (Rachel), Dustin Nilson (Tiffany), and Tyler Nilson. He also leaves behind his sisters, nieces and nephews, and many beloved relatives and friends.

A private remembrance service for family and invited friends will be held at Beams Funeral Home in Fremont, Indiana, on Friday, August 7, 2026, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Memorial contributions in his memory may be directed to the Community Humane Shelter of Steuben County or the American Heart Association.