Don Elanor Channell, born May 16, 1935, in Norton, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on November 12, surrounded by the love of his life of 72 years, Natalie E. Channell.
Born to Dorfice Andrew and Gracie Bodkins Channell, Don grew up in the mountains of West Virginia and graduated from Tygarts Valley High School in Mill Creek. After graduation, he left the mountains, he called home and moved to Baltimore, Maryland, where he began his career with General Motors. It was there that he married the love of his life, Natalie Eleanor Jones. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised five children.
Don dedicated 30 years to General Motors, retiring from a supervisory position. Following retirement, Don and Natalie moved to Snow Hill, Maryland, and later to Virginia's Eastern Shore, where they embraced the slower pace of coastal living. Some of their happiest times were spent aboard their boat, enjoying countless days fishing, walking along the beach, and watching beautiful sunsets over the water. Eventually, they moved to Salisbury, Maryland, to be closer to their growing family. In their later years, Don and Natalie looked forward to their annual winter vacations in Florida, where they shared many wonderful memories with their dear friends, Lottie and Ollie Cumpston.
Don found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved gardening, listening to country music, and following baseball, especially his beloved Boston Red Sox. Whether spending time on the water, tending to his garden, enjoying music, or gathering with family, Don appreciated the moments that made life special. Above all, he cherished his family and the life he and Natalie created together
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Dorfice and Gracie Channell; his siblings, Andrew, Ruth, Helen, Robert, Evelyn, and Deborah; and his dear friends, Lottie and Ollie Cumpston.
He leaves behind his devoted wife of 72 years, Natalie; his surviving siblings, Den, Gerald, Delores, Steve, Sandra, Linda, and Randall; and his five children: Jeanne (Daniel) Nicholson, David Channell, Michael (Ann) Channell, Donald Channell, and Brenda (Marc) Burgos.
He was a proud grandfather to Laura (Brandon) Nicholson, Lisa (Douglas) McKinnon, Kathryn (Matt) Nicholson, Daniel “DJ” Nicholson, Allison (Rodney) Racey, Emily (Tom) Justice, Sydney Channell, Lila Channell, Kelly Burgos, and Julie Burgos. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Peyton and Carson Carey, Lilee Rosas, Owen and Colton Nicholson, and Anchor McKinnon.
Don's life was defined by love, hard work, devotion, and the simple joys of family and friendship. He leaves behind a family who will forever treasure the memories, traditions, laughter, and love they shared with him. After 72 years of marriage, the life he and Natalie built together stands as a lasting testament to a lifetime of love and commitment.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
Visit www.boundsfuneralhome.com to share stories and memories with the family.
