Don was an Army Veteran, and retired from his railroad career after 43 years with the old L&N Railroad (CSX) and several short line Regional Railroads. He played saxophone and piano with his own, and many other bands, since 1951 when he was in the Male High School Band, and proud that this band was chosen to march in President Dwight Eisenhower's Inauguration Parade in 1953. In later years he volunteered his services playing music at numerous nursing homes, care facilities and similar organizations, up until his death.
He was a member of Unit 41, National Association of Retired and Veteran Railway Employees, and served for nine years as President, as well as a number of years as Treasurer and Legislative Officer.
Don was preceded in death by his loving wife of close to 67 years, Yvonne, in February, 2025. Don was also preceded in death by his parents, Frank Stier and Bessie Norman Stier, and his only brother, Norman H. Stier, Sr. Survivors include his daughters, Maria D. Stier and Shaunna E. Hartnett (Danny), and one granddaughter, Lily Lukemire Young (Austin). Survivors also include Don's 5 nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be on Monday, November 9, 2026 from 4:00 pm at 6:30 pm at Arch L. Heady and Son - Cralle Funeral Home (2428 Frankfort Ave). There will be a service to follow that evening at 6:30 pm at the funeral home. Cremation was chosen. Don's urn and ashes will be interred in his niche next to Yvonne in St. Anthony's Garden, Calvary Cemetery on Newburg Road.
Memorial and remembrance gifts may be made to the American Diabetes Association in honor of Donald.
