DONALD EDWARD STUMP

1953 - 2021

DONALD EDWARD STUMP, 67, passed away Friday, July 16, 2021, after a sudden and brief illness. Devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Don was born in 1953 in Fort Wayne, Ind. to the late C. Elgain Stump and Rita Mae Stump (Sordelet).He graduated from Snider High School in 1971 and later Indiana University with a degree in Business. Don worked as a tool and die machinist for more than 40 years.Don met his wife Cheryle in Fort Wayne and they were married for 39 years. Together they raised two children and shared a love of travel, visiting many places over the years. They often took trips to indulge Don's love of live music (especially Brian Setzer) and sports (Go Cincinnati Reds!).Don enjoyed snow skiing, golfing, mountain and road biking, hiking, attending NHRA races, and spending time with his beloved grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Cheryle; children, Adam (Stephania) Stump and Jodie (Adam) Backsmeier; his grandchildren, Luke and Matthew Backsmeier; his siblings, James (Jeanne) Stump, Kenneth Stump, Mary (Dennis) Andrews, and Andrew Stump; his sister-in-law, Denise Stump; and many nieces and nephews.He was also preceded in death by his brother, John Stump. An open house celebration of life is from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 16, 2021, in Fort Wayne at Franke Park Pavilion #1, with a brief service at 11:30 a.m., followed by food and refreshments, including many of Don's favorites. Guests may bring any photos and memories that they would like to share with the family. For those who wish to make a donation in Don's name, consider Animal Care & Control of Fort Wayne or Fort Wayne Trails.