Donald Lee Stonecipher

Donald Columbus Lee Stonecipher Donald Lee Stonecipher, 87, of Columbus, IN entered his eternal home on September 16, 2025 while resting peacefully at Four Seasons Retirement Center. He was born on May 24, 1938 in Fountain County, IN at the farm home of his parents, William A. Stonecipher and Ida Lois (Marquess) Stonecipher. Don married Patricia A. Rhode on February 12, 1961.

Don's early life was marked by a close-knit community and a touch of humor, as he often quipped about graduating top 10 in his class of 11 at Coal Creek High School in New Richmond in 1956. His pursuit of education led him to Purdue University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and Economics in 1960. At Purdue, Don became a proud member of the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity, forging lifelong friendships that he cherished throughout his years.

Don's commitment to service was evident through his involvement in the ROTC, where he achieved the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. He went on to serve his country as a U.S. Army Veteran, stationed at Fort Eustis, Virginia from February 1961 until August 1962. During his military tenure, he resided in Williamsburg, Virginia for 6 months before moving on base.

Following his service, Don embarked on a distinguished career, initially joining Midstates Automotive in Indianapolis from 1962 to 1966. His proximity to the speedway ignited a lifelong passion for racing, making him an ardent fan. In 1966, Don began working at Cosco Inc. (now Dorel) in Columbus, Indiana. Over the next 38 years, he dedicated himself to his role as a purchasing agent, a job he loved, particularly for the people he worked with. Don's commitment to community involvement was evident through his role as a Junior Achievement Advisor and his service on the Cosco Credit Union board.

A long-time resident of Columbus, Don was a fixture in the Flintwood Subdivision, Presidential Park, and eventually the Four Seasons Retirement Community. His faith was an integral part of his life, demonstrated by his 58 years of membership at Asbury United Methodist Church, where he served on the Stewardship Committee and was active in the Men's Group. He was also a life member of the Elks Lodge #521 in Columbus.

Don's role as a father was paramount, and he was deeply involved in his children's lives, supporting them in a variety of sports from gymnastics to wrestling, golf, and baseball. His enthusiasm for athletics extended to his alma mater, the Purdue Boilermakers, where he was a vocal supporter, even in the heart of Hoosier territory, often sporting a musical Purdue tie. His loyalty also extended to professional sports, as a proud fan of the Indiana Pacers, Cincinnati Reds, Cincinnati Bengals, and Indianapolis Colts.

Golf was more than a pastime for Don; it was a way to connect with friends and savor the outdoors. He played countless rounds at Otter Creek and celebrated two hole-in-ones. Don's love for Florida was rooted in family history, as his parents wintered in Bradenton for many years. He eventually acquired a second home in Ft. Pierce at the Spanish Lakes Country Club. There, he became an accomplished shuffleboard player, winning numerous trophies and enjoying the warm, sunny climate.

Donald Lee Stonecipher's life was marked by dedication to his country, his community, his career, and most importantly, his family. His legacy of service, camaraderie, and enthusiasm for life will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, September 22, 2025 at Asbury United Methodist Church with Pastor Nick Robinson officiating. Calling hours will be from 12 p.m. until service time Monday at the church. Entombment will be at Garland Brook Cemetery Mausoleum with military honors conducted by the Bartholomew County Veterans Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions may be made to Asbury United Methodist Church, Our Hospice of South-Central Indiana or Alzheimer's Disease Research.

Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Patricia Stonecipher; children, David Lee (Ann) Stonecipher of Monroe, CT, Jo Anne Haire of Springboro, OH, Vicki Sue (Mike) Quinn of Hamburg, NY; brothers, Richard (Lynda) Stonecipher of Ft. Pierce, FL, Jim (Brenda) Stonecipher of Amarillo, TX and Tom (Joyce) Stonecipher of Wingate, IN; grandchildren, Eric (Nicole Siliko) Stonecipher of Miamisburg, OH, Ryan Stonecipher of Salt Lake City, UT, Samantha Stonecipher of New York City, NY, Nathan Quinn of Willoughby, OH, Joshua Quinn of Buffalo, NY, Megan Quinn of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Bandon Haire (Victoria) of Germantown, OH, Jacob Haire of Springboro, OH and Lindsey Haire of Springboro, OH; great grandchildren, Mabel Haire of Germantown, OH, Dory Haire of Germantown, OH, plus another Haire on the way in November; Also survived by numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Doris Sowerwine.

Don's family was extremely thankful for every nurse, aide, and caregiver who helped Don in his journey at Four Seasons Retirement Center.