Don Melvin Alspaugh

Don M. Alspaugh passed away peacefully at his home Saturday February 22, 2025, at the age of 92. Don is survived by his loving wife of almost 72 years, Linda Lea (Barbera), his daughters, Kelly Lynn (John), Lizabeth Annette (Alan), four grandchildren, Justin, Patrick, Rose and Mary, and two great-grandchildren Elias and Logan. Don is predeceased by his parents, Clarence E., and Elizabeth, and two sisters, Barbara (Butch), and Joan. Don was born and raised in Sterling Kansas, where he completed his schooling and worked for a time in his family's business - Sterling Ice Cream. Don is a veteran of the Korean War, serving in the U.S. Navy - Active Duty from January 8, 1952, to September 24, 1953. As a young man, Don obtained his private pilot license and later turned his passion for flying into a career in the aviation industry. Upon graduation from Kansas State University in 1957 with a business degree, Don joined Cessna Aircraft as dealer adviser. While his job did not involve flying, having his pilot license was an asset, as Don flew and was familiar with every Cessna aircraft available at the time. At one time Don flew with actor John Wayne to Montrose CO during the filming of the movie True Grit. While in the aviation industry, Don with Linda and their daughters literally travelled the country, living and working in Kansas, Texas, California, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Florida. Following his time in the aviation industry, Don and Linda decided it was a good time to settle and moved to the Atlanta area in 1971. Don ended his career with Systems Maintenance Inc., as controller, and lived in retirement with Linda in Lawrenceville GA. Don was a man of faith, and he and Linda attended and served at Mount Carmel Christian Church. Don's internment will be at the Georgia National Cemetery, in Canton GA.
Condolences may be submitted online at www.scotward.com. Scot Ward Funeral Services, 699 American Legion Rd., Conyers, GA, 770-483-7216.