Donnel R. Hemminger

Donnel R. Hemminger, born February 12, 1935, passed away January 23, 2002 unexpectedly at home while playing chess, one of his many passions. Born in Millersville, OH, longtime resident of Toledo, OH, Donnel was known worldwide as a master guitarist and consummate musician. Don was a mentor and inspiration to many up and coming musicians. Don and Joann owned and operated Hemminger's Music on Dorr St., in Toledo in the early 1970's, which became a mecca for players and fans of all types of music. Donnel lived in Orlando, FL since 1975. He played at many venues in the area, including numerous gigs with Disney. He performed with such greats as Hank Garland, Lenny Breau, Buddy Emmons, Ernest Tubbs, Hank Thompson, Jimmy Dean, Nancy Wilson, Bob Hope, Casey Clark, Chet Atkins, Johnny Paycheck, Panama Jack, Osmond Bros., and too many more to mention. Donnel spent the last two years caring for his beloved wife of 40 years, who recently underwent a double lung transplant after suffering from Pulmonary Fibrosis. Donnel was survived by his wife Joann, and children, Joni Manning and John Manning. Also, grandchildren, Rachel Manning, and Abbott, Sam, and Brock Skelding; and two great grandchildren; brothers: John, Max, and Paul Hemminger; sisters: Mary Schneider, Suzanna O'Lauflin and Gladine Gysan. Brother-in-law, Cliff Allen, sister-in-law Mary Sue Hambrick, nieces, Paula Farrell, Renee Farley, Robin Sargent, and Sandra Valles, and nephews, Jeff Underwood, Randall Underwood, Chris Hambrick. Funeral Services will be conducted Wednesday, January 30 at 6PM at Newcomer Family Funeral Home, East Orlando Chapel. Family will receive friends also on Wednesday from 3 to 6PM. Interment will follow on Thursday, January 31 at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, FL. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to his wife's medical fund. Contact can be made via e-mail at magicjoann@aol.com NEWCOMER FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 895 Goldenrod Road, Orlando, FL 32822 (407)277-4227.