Donald L. Ogle, 87, of Ontario, Ohio, passed away on Saturday, October 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Donald was born in Mansfield, Ohio, on July 14, 1939, to Cora (Fox) and Clyde Ogle. Both preceded him in death.
He lived a life defined by hard work, devotion to his loved ones, and an appreciation for the simple joys of life. Donald leaves behind a legacy woven through a lifetime of laughter, love, hard work, and cherished memories. To his family and friends, he was far more than a beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother—he was a source of joy, comfort, and unforgettable moments whose presence made a life brighter and whose memory will remain in their hearts forever.
Donald spent 36 years working in the Hot Strip at Empire Detroit Steel Mill before retiring. Never one to sit still, he later continued serving his community through his work in the motor maintenance department with the Mansfield Police Department, retiring after years of dedicated service. Through his years of service, he built a legacy of hard work and dedication.
Donald was a man with a great sense of humor, a quick wit, and a contagious smile that could brighten any room. He loved joking around, making people laugh, and sharing special moments with the people he loved. His personality was one of a kind and those who knew him will always remember his humor, his smile, and the joy he brought into their lives.
Outside of work, Donald enjoyed traveling, especially trips to Las Vegas where he could enjoy new experiences and make lasting memories. He also found happiness in the simple pleasures of home, especially working in his yard and tending to his flowers, finding joy in watching them grow and bloom. He also enjoyed watching The Ohio State Buckeyes, the Cleveland Browns and especially the Cleveland Indians, as he would not call them the Guardians. Whether spending time outdoors, sharing a joke, flashing that unforgettable smile, or spending time with those closest to him, he had a way of making ordinary moments special.
Donald is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Mary (Bradshaw) Ogle; his son, James (Christy) Ogle of Mansfield; his daughter, April (Gregory) Smith of Ontario; and daughters-in-law, Vicki Ogle and Rebecca Ogle.
He was a proud and loving grandfather to Amanda (Nick) Wenzel, Bradley (Cynthia) Smith, Ashley Ogle, Nick (Christina) Ogle, Matthew Grace, Dusty Shearer, Brooke (Dallas) Younce, and Joshua Ogle.
His legacy continues through his cherished great-grandchildren, Alexis, Oliver, Lillian, Briella, Graham, Charlotte, Grayson, Adonis, Weston, Cashten, Ripley, and Audree.
Donald is also survived by his brothers, Tom (Margene) Ogle and Ray (Cathy) Ogle; brothers-in-law, Raymond “Mick” Bradshaw and Danny Bradshaw; along with a host of nieces and nephews whom he loved very much.
He is preceded in death by his parents; his sons, Scott Ogle (2017) and Mark Ogle (2026); and a brother, Roy Ogle (2021).
Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we take comfort in the many memories Donald leaves behind and the example he set through a life of hard work, quiet strength, dedication to his family, and the kindness he showed to those around him. His presence will be deeply missed but his legacy will live on through the family he cherished and the lives he touched.
The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 pm on Friday, October 30, 2026, at Wappner Funeral Directors and Crematory-Ontario, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Road. The funeral service will immediately follow at 7:00 pm with Chaplain Doug Olsen officiating. He will be laid to rest on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at 10:30 am in Mansfield Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association or the Alzheimer’s Association.
