Donald Spangler

Donald Edward Spangler, age 82, of Washington Court House, Ohio, entered his heavenly home after a lifetime of faithful service to God, his family, and his country. Born on March 3, 1943, in Sidney, Ohio, to Christopher James Spangler and Carolyn Marie (Maurer) Spangler. Don's life was one of devotion, sacrifice, and unwavering faith.

From an early age, Don exhibited remarkable discipline and drive. A talented athlete, "Dandy Don" held the record for most touchdowns in a single game (five) at Sidney High School from 1960 to 2017 – and excelled in baseball, track, and boxing. Although he was awarded a full football scholarship to Morehead State University in Kentucky, his heart called him to serve his country, and he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he began a distinguished 20-year military career.

While stationed in Wichita, Kansas, Don met the love of his life, Judy Sharon (Murray) Spangler, of Tulsa, Oklahoma. The two married on May 6, 1965, beginning a partnership marked by faith, resilience, and adventure that would span six decades with them celebrating their 60th anniversary in May of this year.

Don's military service took him across the globe—from South Korea, Guam, and Italy to bases throughout the United States including Kansas, Virginia, California, and Ohio. He served as a communications and logistics specialist, earning the Purple Heart for Military Merit for wounds sustained during his service in Vietnam (1968–1969). He retired honorably from the Air Force in 1983 and later earned both his associate and bachelor's degrees in management from Park College in 1987.

Following his military retirement, Don continued to serve his country as a civil servant in logistics for the Advanced Cruise Missile program for 13 years. He later managed the family-owned Camp Qtokee in Sidney, OH and worked alongside his son-in-law at Air Technologies in Monroe, OH before finishing his career at Riten Industries in Washington Court House, OH.

Don's greatest calling, however, was his ministry and walk with the Lord. Having become a Christian in 1971, he dedicated his life to serving God in every community where he lived. He served in numerous church leadership roles throughout his life—youth pastor, deacon, and teacher—and earned a Bible degree while overseas before becoming an ordained minister. While stationed at the Allied Joint Command NATO Base in Naples, Italy, he founded and pastored Faith Baptist Church from 1975 to 1979. His deep voice and heartfelt prayers became a hallmark of family gatherings and worship services alike, his words carrying with conviction and grace to the back pews of every congregation.

Above all, Don cherished his family. Together with Judy, he raised four children across the world during his years of service: Shawn Kimberlie – born in Guam (1967); Michael Darren– born in Newport News, VA (1970); Rebekah Diane – born in Riverside, CA (1975); Jonathan Andrew – born in Naples, Italy (1978).

He was a proud grandfather "Papa" and great-grandfather, known for his steadfast guidance, boundless love, and gentle humor. Those who knew Don will remember his booming voice that could fill a room without effort—whether he was leading prayer, sharing a story, or calling the family to the dinner table. Equally unforgettable was his boisterous laughter, a joyful sound that drew others in and made every gathering brighter. He loved to have fun, often teasing those he loved most with a quick wit and a mischievous grin that left everyone smiling.

In his later years, Don and Judy found great purpose and joy in spending the past ten years primarily raising their great-grandson, Tre, pouring into him the same faith, strength, and love that had guided their own lives. Together, they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and steadfast devotion.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Carolyn (Tom) Grossman, Marjorie (Rodger) Richards, Jim Spangler, John (Linda) Spangler, Hank (Ida) Spangler; Edward Spangler; and brother-in-law Darrell (Marsha) Murray.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Judy Spangler; children Shawn (Andy) Lachat, Michael (Sandy) Spangler, Rebekah Spangler, and Jonathan (Melissa Adams) Spangler; grandchildren Christopher (Shawn Huston) Lachat, Kathryn (William) Hardesty, Kelsey Pycraft, Kristen Pycraft, Chase Spangler, Gage Spangler, Amiah Spangler, Skylar Adams, Jasmine (Braydon) Buchanan, Alisha (Donnie) Springsteen, and Karrie Sykes; and great-grandchildren Tre, Mavin, Katia, Olivia, Layla, Maverick, Lincoln, Jenson, Everett, and Jackson.

He is also survived by siblings Phil (Sue) Spangler; Sue (Donnie) Fair; Darrell (Faye) Spangler; Dan (Susan) Spangler; and two brothers-in-law, Garell (Susan) Murray, and Jim (Alisa) Murray, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

The funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at the Anchor Baptist Church, 456 Jamison Rd SW, Washington CH, OH 43160. Family and friends may visit at the Church on Saturday morning from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will be held at the Dayton National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Hopewell House of the Chillicothe VA or to your local Hospice, in honor of Don's compassionate spirit and enduring faith.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Summers Funeral Home. Online condolences may be sent to www.summersfuneralhome.com