Connersville native Donald E. Showalter, 93, died Saturday, March 18, 2023, at Heritage House of Connersville.
Don, the oldest son of Russell R. and Helen M. Owens Showalter, was born on February 2, 1930. He attended Harrisburg High School and later enlisted in the United States Navy, serving his country during the Korean Conflict. Don was honorably discharged in 1950. He was employed at GTE Communications as a lineman for twenty years prior to his retirement. Don married the former Rosina Witter on August 5, 1999. He was a faithful member of Grace Community Church. In addition, Don was member of the American Legion Post #365 as well as a former member of the Moose Lodge. He was an avid country line dancer who was famously known as “Dancing Don”. Don enjoyed being in the wilderness camping and fishing. He had a knack for wheeling and dealing and enjoyed tinkering with the vehicles he purchased. More than anything, Don was a family man. He took pride in watching his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews play sports and attended every game possible. His uncanny ability to make everyone feel so special will be deeply missed by his family and friends.
Donald is survived by his wife of twenty-four years: Rosina; daughters: Penny Goodpaster and Randy, April Smallwood and David Bell; step-daughters: Sheri Duncan, Sharlene Hall and Steve, Stacy Reverman and Mathew; sister: Jeanie Selke and Nolen; grandchildren: Shane Gordnier and Ashley, Donald Gordnier, Kristopher Dickey and Crystal, Jenny Dickey, Mandy Becker and Dan, Jackie Keen and Adam, Garrett Corum and Keisha; seventeen great-grandchildren; several step-grandchildren; several step-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law: Lena Showalter; numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
In addition to his parents, Don is preceded in death by his daughter: Donna Gordnier; great-granddaughter: Gabrielle Becker; sister: Nancy Clark; brother: Danny Showalter; brothers-in-law: Joe Witter and Wayne Clark; special canine: Pacer.
A funeral service will be conducted at 11:00 a.m., Friday, March 24, 2023, at Showalter Blackwell Long, Myers Chapel, Connersville with Ellis McQueen officiating. Burial will follow at Lick Creek Cemetery. Friends may visit at the funeral home on Thursday, March 23, 2023, from 5:00 p.m., until 7:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Grace Community Church in Don’s honor.