Don E. Minard

Don E. Minard, 89, of Goshen, died in his home Monday morning, April 1, 2013 after a brief illness. He was born February 1, 1924 in Nappanee to Fred M. and Della (Norris) Minard. On December 11, 1942 he married Phyllis J. Sailor who died on June 22, 1995. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Max (Sarah) Minard and sisters, Edna (Steve) Stuckman, Helen (Howard) Snoke, Wanda (Les) Field and Donnabelle (Everette) Stouder. He is survived by a daughter, Cheri (Jim) Miller of Goshen; a grandson, Barry (Lisa) Ryan of Oviedo, Florida; two great-grandsons, Robert Shayne (Cassie) Ryan and Kristopher Ryan, Oviedo, Florida; and his long time companion, Carol Stose of Goshen. Don moved from Nappanee to Goshen when he was in junior high school and worked at Maple City Ice Cream; he graduated from Goshen High in 1942. He joined the Army and served during World War II as a Forward Observer with the 75th Infantry Division. Don served in Belgium, France, Holland, and Germany and received the Bronze Star for his meritorious service throughout various campaigns. After the service Don was in retail sales with Kohler and Champion Men's Wear until it closed. He also worked at Noble Shoe Store and Montgomery Ward, both down town Goshen and then at the Concord Mall. He worked at Southside Heating and AC for four years, retiring in 1981. Don was a life member of VFW Post #985, American Legion Post #30, DAV #15 and the Goshen Elks. He was an avid card player, loved a good story, and enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Memorials may be made to Goshen Home Care and Hospice, 200 High Park Ave., Goshen, IN 46526 or the VFW Post #985, 1201 W. Pike St., Goshen, IN 46528. Burial will follow a Military Graveside Service at Violett Cemetery at 11 a.m., Friday, April 5, 2013.