Brian Smith

April 16, 2021

Cheers Don!

Love ya Brother!

Brian

Brian Smith

April 16, 2021

Don was the guy you could always count on! He had your back when things weren’t going right or riding side by side on the Harleys going down the road! Although we haven’t seen each other in years there was always the occasional text of our favorite La Gloria cigars burning. Although I could never repay all that Don did for me, I knew I would do anything for him, and he called in the favor once. I can remember to this day when he called me many years ago and said Ashley just moved to a Charlotte (where I live) and he said I gave her your number in case she ever needed anything and I said I’m there when needed! Keep the rubber on the road Brother and the ball in the fairway!
Brian

Al Johnson

April 16, 2021

As many have said, Don was a hero to all that he touched with a genuine kindness that is very rare these days. I first met Don as his neighbor in Palm Harbor way back in 1998. We had a lot of similar interests in sports, business and leisure. Fun times golfing and of course motorcycling. Yes, riding that Harley was a passion and some would say almost a religion. I had the supreme pleasure to be invited to Don’s ultimate riding adventure; a 2 week round trip to Sturgis, S.D. When Don organized something it was all taken care of, shipping bikes, flights, staying with friends, beautiful mountain rental in Deadwood, etc etc. Don loved to share a good time with friends.

Life is full of memories but the cherished memories are the ones that define the person and how we remember them forever. Don made a lot of cherished memories for me, my family and so many he touched. Rest In Peace, brother... till we ride again!

Larry Constantin

April 14, 2021

Don was truly one of a kind. I met Don at starbucks, in Palm Harbor, then learned of the extended friendship he had in the area. As a result a group of us had the unique opportunity to become friends and spend some copious amounts of time riding together on our Harleys. In some cases thousand of miles just for the thrill of seeing how far each one of us could ride before we had to stop or ran out of gas. Throughout those rides and weeks on the road, there was a constant. All of us wanted to spend time with Don when we stopped, just because. Just because Don spent more time giving to all of us then receiving, Just because Don always gave a piece of himself to anyone he was around and just because Don made all of us a little better for knowing him. Sharing Stories, giving work and life advice and always being dialed in to know when someone may need some help. While Don was many more amazing things to so many of you, I cannot recall in my life knowing person that would give unconditionally just because that was who he was. day in and day out. Always a smile, Always positive and always motivating! Thank you Don for all that you are! Thank you for spending time with all of us!

Karen Hahn

April 10, 2021

This was the picture from the night we went out together as couples. It was so fun to hear Don’s stories of Chicago and his childhood shenanigans. The vivid descriptions, as he relived those memories, made us laugh out loud. One story in particular was when he attended the White Sox “Disco Sucks” game in 1979. He lived an eclectic life - Harley’s, music and his beloved Haley (whom he loved with all his heart). If there is one quote that holds true for this wonderful man “Life is measured not by the number of breathes we take, but how many memories that take our breath away.” ❤️ Keep smiling Don!

keith smith

April 10, 2021

Ride easy, Regards from all of us at Tampa Harley Davidson.

Robin Channell

April 9, 2021

Don had many characters on the outside - business man, tough guy on the Harley, but inside he was a big teddy bear with the biggest heart. He was a loving husband to Haley and a wonderful father and step-father. Unlike most men, Don had a big heart for babies. I will never forget him holding and showing so much love and adoration for my son Grisham when he was a baby/toddler prior to Cooper and Carter being born. Don was a special man. I know Haley, the kids and many others have a special angel in heaven watching over them now. Haley, may God wrap your family in his arms and lessen the grief. The Channell's continue to pray for your family and you remain heavy on our hearts during this difficult time.

Sally Crawley

April 8, 2021

I grew up with Jack and Don, we lived in the same duplex in Hometown IL. We were neighbors and friends.
Lots of game playing, swimming in pools, playing baseball in the streets.
We lived in a small town and had the best childhood.
My deepest condolences to Don, wife, children, brothers and sister, Aunt's Uncle and many cousins.
A life taken to soon!

Ronald Kerley

April 8, 2021

Dear Haley
...and I thought the world of Don and I will always love him

I caddied in eight consecutive decades and in that time I met and worked for thousands of individuals including a President and a Vice President of the USA, sport figures,corporate VIPs, Hollywood people and so on but when I caddied for Don it was never work. It was a pleasant walk with warm, funny and caring conversation from a beautiful human being. I was blessed to have known Don

My deepest sympathy on your great loss.

Michael & Annie Watkins

April 7, 2021

One of our sweetest memories is when Haley and Don were dating. Don stopped by our house one evening unexpectedly. After chatting for a few minutes Don so kindly said “The reason I came to see you tonight is to ask for your blessing for me to ask Haley to marry me”. Annie asked him if he loved her? He said “Yes I do!!” We said that’s wonderful and yes, we would welcome Don into our family. Don then said “Would you like to see the ring”? We said yes, and It was beyond beautiful just like their love story marriage! Don was a wonderful husband, father and a blessing to our family. We will miss him every day!!

FROM THE FAMILY