Donald E. VanMatre, 86, of New Castle passed away on December 30, 2022. He was born in New Castle on July 27, 1936, to Ralph and Delena VanMatre.
Donald was a graduate of the 1955 class of New Castle high school. He spent 2 years serving in the Army; Donald was very passionate about giving back and serving veterans. Donald loved to play golf as much as he could, he also spent much time fishing. He was the owner of VanMatre Wood Products, after he retired he began working part-time selling cars. Donald attended Purdue University and was a huge Purdue basketball fan.
Donald is survived by his wife Loretta VanMatre, who he was happily married to for 65 years; son, Kenny VanMatre (Tina); daughter, Kelly Hobson (Troy); grandchildren, Brittney Gebhart (Casey), Kendra Lane (Kelton), Paige Hudson (Jordan) and Collin Hobson (Lacey); great grandchildren Scottie Gebhart, Olivia Lane, Hunter Lane, and Lillian Hudson; special niece, Vicki Emmons and special friends and neighbors, Dave and Barbara Cox.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Delena VanMatre; his brothers, Robert, George, Richard, James, and Charles; sisters, Maxine Beeson, Mary Weaver, and JoAnne Irelan.
Services will be held at 1:00pm Wednesday, January 4, 2023 at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service in New Castle. Burial will follow at Sugar Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11:00am until the time of service Wednesday. You may express condolences or share memories of Donald at www.hinsey-brown.com.