Donald Paul Trentel

Donald Paul Trentel
February 5, 1941 – November 8, 2025
Donald "Don" Paul Trentel, 84, of Rockbridge, Ohio, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025, in Columbus, Ohio, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, on February 5, 1941, Don was the son of Paul and Jane (Zurga) Trentel and brother to James (Candi) Trentel. He graduated from St. Joseph High School and went on to earn a degree in Graphic Art from the Cooper School of Art. His creative spirit and entrepreneurial drive led him to found Trentel Graphics, where he enjoyed a long and successful career as a graphic designer and business owner.
In April of 1963, Don married Susan Ella (Norris) Trentel, and together they built a beautiful marriage of 62 years filled with laughter, adventure, and devotion to family. Don was a proud father to William (Janet) Trentel, Michael (Mitzi) Trentel, Donna Trentel, Mary (Kenric) Hall, Maurice (Awa) Trentel, and Catherine Trentel (partner Mike Griffin), and a cherished grandfather to Timothy, Michael, & Anna Trentel, Katherine & Grey (Bethany) Trentel, Matthew & Emma Hall, Youssouf (Thiam), Mekaih, & Muhammad Trentel, as well as a delighted great-grandfather to Aviana Johnson, and beloved cousin to Elaine Brewster.
Don's life was grounded in faith, determination, and a tireless work ethic. He was driven to give his best in everything he did-whether in business, family, or service to others. To many, he was more than a husband, father, grandfather, uncle, cousin, neighbor, crafts counselor, or friend; he was a father figure, teacher, and mentor, always ready to guide, encourage, and share his wisdom. His humor, integrity, and character inspired everyone who knew him. Don loved woodworking, traveling, hiking, Cleveland sports, and time spent outdoors. Whether building, fixing, grilling, or crafting boards for cheeseboards, he poured creativity, precision, and love into every project. His heart for service shone through his volunteer work with No Ordinary Camps, a Children's Burn Camp and the Phoenix Society, where he made a lasting difference in the lives of others.
A lover of epic trips to Colorado, Disney trips, national parks, their cabin in the woods in Hocking Hills and time with family, Don filled every gathering with laughter, stories, and warmth. He will be remembered not only for his artistic talent and hard work but also for his kindness, humor, and unwavering love for his family and friends.
A special thanks to the care teams at The James Cancer Center and Kobacker Hospice House.
Funeral Mass St. Clement Church (Lincoln and Madison Ave.) Friday, November 21 at 10:00 a.m. (PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH). Interment private. Friends may call at the McGORRAY-HANNA FUNERAL HOME OF LAKEWOOD 14133 DETROIT AVE. THURSDAY FROM 4-7 PM.
In true Don style attendees are invited to wear flannels or vests.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Don's honor to the Children's Hospital Colorado Burn Camps program, https://secure.childrenscoloradofoundation.org/site/TR;jsessionid=00000000.app20072a?px=1350607&fr_id=1930&pg=personal&NONCE_TOKEN=615B30E0CA78123B666EA491A3507A45
The family invites everyone back to St. Clement Church Hall for a luncheon following Mass.