Donald E. Wesley

Donald Elmer Wesley 7/3/32 - 6/2/13

Don Wesley passed away peacefully at home the morning of June 2, 2013. He is survived by his sisters Delores and Virginia, children Karen, Sharon, Don, Laura, Cathy, grandchildren John, James, Alyssa, Brandon, Makayla, Olivia, great grandchildren Tyson, baby-girl Pallatt to be and many nieces, nephews, cousins and cherished friends. Don was a loving father, brother, grandfather and great grandfather and would do anything for his family.

Born July 3, 1932 in Chicago, Illinois to Virginia and Albert Wesley he was the 2nd of 3 children. After graduating from Albert G. Lane in 1949 he worked for Republic Steel Company. In 1952 Don met the love of his life who would later become his lovely bride and lifetime partner Barbara Joyce Podolski. He was drafted into the Army in 1953 and served his country for 2 years. He worked for the steel industry for 35 years and started his second career at the United States Post Office where he retired at the age of 71.

Don's greatest joys were raising his family and loving his wife. His passion for nature created many camping trips with the family across the United States. He will be most remembered by his incredible giving spirit and ability to stay in contact with the many friends he had made over the years.

When I must leave you for a little while,
please do not grieve and shed wild tears
and hug your sorrows to you through the years
but start out bravely with a gallant smile;
and for my sake and in my name
live on and do all things the same,
Feed not your loneliness on empty days,
but fill each waking hour in useful ways,
Reach out your hand in comfort and in cheer
and I in turn will comfort you and hold you near;
and never, never be afraid to die,
for I am waiting for you in the sky.


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