Donald Leslie Born
April 03, 2020
- Share:
-
-
-
Service Details
Donald Leslie Born, 74, departed this life at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines on Friday April 3, 2020, with his beloved wife of 35 years, Cheri, by his side.
Don was born on October 6, 1945 in Story City to parents Dr. William Born and Marie (Connety) Green. He was a graduate of Story City High School and later earned his college degree at Iowa State University.
Don proudly served as a medic in the US Army at the 121st Evac Hospital in South Korea during the Vietnam War.
He was a lover of sailing and sports cars, and while he did try, he was a terrible golfer.
More than his hobbies, Don loved people and people loved him. Whether it be a family member, a close friend, colleague, or a stranger, Don never shied away from a good conversation. Conversing, reminiscing, and giving advice made his day. He loved to tell stories of sailing in his boat aptly named “Born Again”; his prized Shelby Cobra, which included a great story about how he was once run off the road; his career in construction; his hobby of woodworking; a great meal accompanied by a good cocktail; his adored dogs; dear family; and his favorite, his wife Cheri.
Don did not have children by birth, but took great pride in the relationships that he built with his stepchildren from childhood into adulthood, and often proudly shared their struggles and celebrations through the years. Don especially relished the role of being Papa to his seven grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife, Cheryl (McAvoy); stepchildren: Aaron Empey (Stephanie), Wendy Empey (Connor McCullough), Tara Empey-Naleway, Lee Maasen White (Martin), and Craig Naleway; grandchildren: Haley, Rachel, Emma, Carter, Ruthie, Lincoln, and Cash.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Bill Green; sister, Bette; and brother, Jon.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Heart Association in loving memory of Don. Condolences at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Carolyn Spencer
04/13/2020
It was a pleasure to know Don. He was kind, caring, a hard worker and smart. To all his family, I hope the many wonderful memories continue to keep Don's spirit close and give you peace at this sad time.
Cate Taruc
04/11/2020
It was an honor to work with and know Don. He was a kind soul who got along with everyone - even the customers no one else could handle. He always had my back and treated me as if I were his own family. He always had a joke ready for every situation and always knew how to turn a bad situation into a laugh. Someday Ill go to that restaurant you always told us you loved - Mortons in Chicago and Ill have a drink in your honor. Rest In Peace, Don.
PeggySmith
04/07/2020
My heart shattered when I heard the news of Dons passing. I loved this kind, sweet, wonderful man. It was my pleasure to have known and worked with you. Fly high my friend and be at peace. My sincere condolences to your entire family. God bless you my friend!
Robin Jensen
04/07/2020
I had never met Don before he and Aunt Cher came to visit me at the post office while on their travels but you would not have known it. He was so nice and talked to me like he had known me for years. My heart goes out to Aunt Cher and the family.
Juanita Barron
04/06/2020
My heart broke into pieces when I received the news. I will never forget how lovely person you were. I will definitely missed you. My deeply condolences to the family. Rest in the paradise. God have gained an amazing angel.
Krista D
04/06/2020
I always looked forward to seeing Don when I went into work. He had a love for his coworkers that showed with the smile on his face. I will miss him greatly. Prayers to his family through out all of this
Mike Veach
04/06/2020
Don was the guy always willing to listen when you were having a tough day, and had an amazing way to help you smile.
My deepest condolences.
Jen G
04/06/2020
Don never let a day pass without saying, Hi, and genuinely asking how I was doing. Always a smile on his face and joy in his heart. I pray the Lord grant you His perfect peace during this hard time.
Mary Wolinski
04/06/2020
The install office will not be the same without Don. Don was such a character and all around great guy. He shared his knowledge and experiences with all who knew him and was a great teacher. I will miss him greatly.
Josh Kohrs
04/06/2020
Don was a amazing person and always loved to talk about cars, any kind of cars. He always had a great spirit, and took even bad situations at work in stride, and brought a sense of calm to any storm for anyone that talked to him.
It was a pleasure working with him at Lowes of Jordan Creek since he started, condolences to your family.
Corey Kline
04/06/2020
I was very sadden to hear of Don's passing as he was a great friend to all that knew him and the kind of coworker that we all could strive to be more like. He not only showed that he cared, but proved it through his actions.
Mary Kline
04/06/2020
I have had the pleasure to work with Don for just over a year and he was loved all of us at Lowe's. He always knew how to cheer me up when I was down and really helped me when I returned to work after loosing my mom tragically. My heart goes out to his entire family. I was blessed the honor of getting to know him.
Ann Moeller
04/06/2020
Dear Cheryl, Aaron, Wendy, Tara and families,
Our deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers for all of you on the loss of Don.
I hope your happy memories and the love and support of family and friends will help to sustain you during this sad time and in the difficult months ahead.
Don - may flights of angels sing thee to thy rest and may you now abide comfortably with God until, through the promise of everlasting life, we meet again.
Love and blessings,
Leslie and Ann