Don was born in Glen Ridge on April 22, 1946 to the late Emil and Evelyn (Harris) Thoenig. Don was a lifelong Stillwater resident. He studied at Pratt Institute, Brooklyn NY, OCCC Middletown, NY, and then received his BFA from Herron School of Art + Design in Indianapolis, Indiana. Don was an artist, musician, troubadour and entertainer. He was active in local community theater and did many prop and set designs. In addition to his many roles, Don brought the spirit of Christmas to people of all ages. He ran his own business as a sign painter and worked as a bartender. He was a member of the Keepers of Coursen's Corners and Cornerstone Playhouse.
The beloved husband to Una Lee Williams-Thoenig, Don is survived by his brother, Ronald Thoenig and his wife Jill; his niece, Tara Tosti and her husband Tom and their son Tommy; his nephew, Todd Thoenig; his step-children, Donna Blevins (Ed), Laura D'Eliseo (Michael) [their Mother, Susan Ramberg], Shawn Kenny (April), Colleen Saffron (Terry), Russell Kenny, Rudy Sarate (Alyssa), 26 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren. As well as the many lives, he has touched over the years.
A memorial visitation will be held from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. on Sunday, August 21, 2022 at Smith-McCracken Funeral Home, 63 High St., Newton, NJ. A memorial service will begin at 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Don’s memory may be made to Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 99 Sparta Ave, Newton, NJ 07860 or Wounded Warriors Project, 370 7th Ave, Suite 1802, New York, NY 10001.
Online condolences may be offered at www.smithmccrackenfuneralhome.com