Donald David Ging

Donald David Ging
July 21, 1951 – July 16,2025

Donald David Ging, 73, of Carolina Beach, NC, passed away peacefully surrounded by love. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Don lived a full and vibrant life rich with adventure, laughter, and love.

Born July 21, 1951, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Don was the son of the late Robert P. Ging and Rosemary Ging. He grew up in the Brookline neighborhood and attended South Catholic School before continuing his education at the University of Pittsburgh.

Don built a long and successful career, working many years at Highmark before joining Principal Financial Group in 2004 as a financial advisor. It was there, on his very first day, that he met Georgia, and immediately knew he had met the love of his life. Together, they built not only a thriving business but a beautiful and happy life. 

Don and Georgia were dedicated volunteer divers at the Fort Fisher Aquarium and shared a love of the ocean. An avid scuba diver, Don explored waters near and far, collecting megalodon shark teeth and walking countless miles of Carolina Beach hand-in-hand with Georgia, always on the hunt for shark teeth and ocean treasures.

Don had an infectious love of life and was happiest when surrounded by his grandchildren. Whether strumming his guitar with Eli, diving with Caleb, teaching Charlee to ski and swim, crabbing with Meadow, or fishing with Theo, “grandpa aka GP” never missed a chance to make memories. His stories, his laughter, and his unconditional love will live on in them always.

He cherished the time he spent hunting and fishing with his brothers, nephews, and friends at the infamous "shack," a place where bonds were forged and stories became legends.

Don was a faithful member of Kure Memorial Lutheran Church and lived each day with gratitude, kindness, and a deep love for his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Rosemary Ging, and his brother Robert P. Ging Jr.

He is survived by his loving wife, Georgia A. Ging; his daughter Jeanine Ging (Brian Wargo); stepdaughter Angela Dawson (William Dawson); stepson Erich Orris (Melissa Orris); and his adored grandchildren: Eli Dawson, Caleb Dawson, Charlee Dawson, Meadow Ging Wargo, and Theo Ging Wargo.

He also leaves behind his cherished siblings: Tim Ging (Betty Lou), Mary Ging, Patty Cole (Bob), Carol Erzen (Dave), Kevin Ging (Carolyn), Karen Beattie (Tom), and Terry Ging (Lori); 18 nieces and nephews; 15 great-nieces and nephews; and a community of friends who became family.

Don’s life was a reflection of his generous heart, adventurous spirit, and deep love for those around him. His legacy will continue in every story told, every song played, and every shark tooth found on the shore.

A celebration of Don’s life will be held on Saturday July 26,2025, 5:30 PM at Kure Memorial Lutheran Church - 117 3rd Ave North Kure Beach NC, 28449  

Followed by a Reception at Fort Fisher Aquarium 900 Loggerhead Road Kure Beach NC, 28449

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Lower Cape Fear Life Care  https://lifecare.org/ways-to-give/memorials-tributes/

Or Fort Fisher Aquarium https://ncas.givecloud.co/give in honor of Don’s passion for the ocean and diving with Sheldon the turtle.