Donald Wilson

Donald Wayne Wilson passed in peace at the age of 74 on February 22, 2022, at his daughter’s home in
Bow, New Hampshire after a long battle with lung disease.
Donald was born in Valparaiso, Indiana on August 14, 1947, to Henry and Louise (Wright) Wilson.
While Chesterton Indiana was his home, he went on to join the Navy at the age of 18 where he served
his country in Vietnam. During his time with the Navy, he became a chef, and had the opportunity to
travel the world. His favorite place he lived was the Philippines. He loved the people and the food, and
his favorite dish was pancit. He was an amazing chef and enjoyed cooking. Throughout his life, he even
pursued this passion by working in several different restaurant kitchens. He was a hard worker his entire
life, providing for his family through many different labor jobs. He always did his job well and was
respected wherever he was employed.
He was a loving father to his daughter Chrissy & son-in-law Jason.
Proud grandfather of Grace & Wilson.
Donald loved to party and have fun in general! Playing pool, darts, and drinking his Jack Daniel’s were
some of his favorite activities. Rooting for The Notre Dame Fighting Irish football was always something
he looked forward too, whether watching the game in the stands or on TV. Baseball was another
favorite activity, and he took his family to many MLB games. Go Cubbies! He was also an avid lover of
Westerns, especially those starring John Wayne. But when he wasn't busy with his westerns or sports,
he loved to be outside walking in nature or being with pets. He loved his dog Molly and always played
with the animals that crossed his path. He even had a pet monkey for many years!
He loved living in the sunny state of Florida. It was there that he spent a lot of time with his beloved
nephew and wife, Thure and Tracy Hoeckelberg.
He made memories with his grandchildren, visiting Disney many times. He had a secret love for Disney -
each visit he wanted everyone to think he was just going for his daughter. However, in truth, he was an
annual pass holder for several years and enjoyed every moment! He and his grandchildren also had
different adventures around the state of Florida.  Blue Spring State Park was one place he would go on
daily walks throughout the park. His grandchildren will never forget the times they traveled with him.
Donald was certainly loved by many. He had a special and notable bond with Sue McLain. Their
friendship lasted for years.
Donald is survived by Sister Patricia (Kirt) Thayer of Somerdale, New Jersey.  Brother Roy (Cheryl) Wilson
of Westville, Indiana. He is preceded in death by his parents Henry and Louise (Wright) Wilson, brother
Henry, sisters Marilyn Hoeckelberg and Lilah Ling.
Donald will be fondly remembered by family and friends as a man who put his family first, a hard worker
and a fighter until his last breath.
I love you dad, we all do.
There will be a private memorial and a Burial at Sea with the Navy.