Donald Joseph Setter

Don Setter, age 90, of Olathe, Kansas, passed away on Monday, March 30, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family.

Donald Joseph Setter was born on December 13, 1935. He was the first of four children born to Mike and Mareeta (Shellhorn) Setter in a farmhouse west of Richmond, Kansas. He began his education at Meadowbrooke, a one room country schoolhouse, before moving to Garnett in the 6th grade. He graduated from Garnett High School in 1953.

On May 27, 1961, Don married Mary Dale Hawkins. Together they built a loving life and raised three children, Sheryl, Connie, and Rick, sharing 64 wonderful years of marriage.

In 1953 at age 17, Don began his career with the American Telephone Company in Garnett, Kansas, which later became United Telephone Company. Over the next 48½ years he worked his way up from a lineman to supply chain management. He moved around the state and relocated to Ellis, Baldwin, Overland Park, Junction City, and ultimately Olathe. He retired from Sprint in 2001. Don also proudly served his country in the Kansas National Guard for six years. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Telephone Pioneer Club.

In his earlier years, Don had a passion for new and fast cars. He enjoyed bowling and participated in leagues up until just eight months ago. A devoted KU basketball fan since childhood, he would ride his bicycle into town just to find a television to watch the games. Don loved to dance with his wife and daughters, earning the affectionate nickname "Disco Don." After retiring, he and Mary Dale traveled extensively throughout the country, with Canada and Yellowstone ranking among his favorite destinations.

One of Don's greatest sources of pride was his yard. Always immaculate, it was admired by neighbors and passersby alike.

Above all, Don was a dedicated family man. He rarely missed a sporting event, dance recital, performance, graduation, or milestone for his children and grandchildren. This past year, he took great joy in spending time with his newest great granddaughters. Family was at the center of his life, and nothing meant more to him.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Larry Setter, and infant brother, Robert.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Dale; his children, Sheryl and F.J. Cronenwett of Overland Park, KS; Connie and Kirk Foutts of Lee's Summit, MO; and Rick and Stephanie Setter of Olathe, KS. He also leaves behind seven beloved grandchildren, Courtney, Derek, Addison, Michael, Lynn, Katharine, and Dallas, and was the proud Great Papa of Cameron, Lainey, and Eliza. Don is also survived by his brother and sister in law, Gary and Wilma Setter of Westphalia, KS, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Special thanks to Olathe Hospice and Benefits of Care Teams for their attention and quality care given to Don.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at Prince Of Peace Catholic Church, 16000 W. 143rd Street, Olathe, Kansas 66062. Don's family will greet friends from 10:00-11:00 AM prior to the Mass. Inurnment in the Holy Angels Cemetery, Garnett, Kansas will be at 2:30 PM on Tuesday. On Monday, April 6, Don's family will greet friends following a 6:00 PM Rosary at the Feuerborn Family Funeral Service, 219 S. Oak, Garnett, Kansas. Visitation will be from 6:30-8:00 PM, Monday evening at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Boys Town or to Prince of Peace and may be left in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be shared at www.feuerbornfuneral.com.