Donald W. "Don" McCracken

Donald "Don" W. McCracken, of Blackwell, MO, passed away Monday, November 24, 2025, at the age of 84.
He was born on July 19, 1941, in Rolla, Missouri, welcomed by his parents, the late Ray and Bernice (Prewitt) McCracken. On June 20, 1964, in Rolla, he joined his life with Alice Irene Gresham, beginning a loving partnership that would endure for decades.
In addition to his parents, Don was also preceded in death by great grandson, Bently Sneathen; two brothers, David McCracken, Dewayne McCracken; two sisters, Donita Costopolos, Dorothy Lenhardt; and brother-in-law, Jack Costoplos.
Don graduated from Rolla High School in 1959 and went on to dedicate 34 years of service to UMR (now Missouri S&T), where he was known for his strong work ethic and commitment to the university community. A man with a deep passion for motorsports, he found joy in both motorcycle and stock car racing, embracing the camaraderie and excitement that came with each event. Don was also a proud member of the Missouri Fox Trotters Association, where he formed many lasting friendships. His enthusiasm, loyalty, and warmth will be remembered by all who knew him.
Don will be greatly missed by his surviving family which includes: his wife, Irene McCracken; son, Gary McCracken and wife Joan of Springfield, MO; daughter, Anita McCracken and husband Kevin Carr of Blackwell, MO; two grandchildren, Gary McCracken, Melina McCracken-Sneathen; several great grandchildren; and one great great grandchild.
A funeral service for Donald "Don" W. McCracken will be conducted at 1 p.m. on Monday, December 1, 2025, at the Null and Son Funeral Home of Rolla. Interment will follow in the Pea Ridge Cemetery in Doolittle, MO. A visitation for family and friends will be held prior to the service beginning at 11 a.m. at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Potosi Manor or Preferred Hospice of Farmington, MO.