In Loving Memory of Donald Ray Edsall

Donald Ray Edsall, Sr., age 94, passed away February 1, 2019 in Cañon City, Colorado. Born in Oklahoma City on April 21, 1924 to George Elliot and Maude Myrtle (Goodman) Edsall. He grew up the oldest of twelve children, true children of the Midwest. Donald grew up in both, Watonga, Oklahoma and Isabel, Kansas. He graduated from Isabel High School and soon joined the war effort. Donald served in southern France, central Europe, North Africa, Rome-Arno and Rhineland. He served in some of the most dangerous and harshest areas of “The Mighty Endeavor”, World War II. A true patriot, Donald was willing to sacrifice everything for his country. He earned and received the World War II Victory Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal, the EAME (Europe, Africa, Middle East) Theater Ribbon with four Bronze Service Stars and one Bronze Arrowhead.

Soon after the war had ended, Donald was home and his love of cars immediately returned. However, his love of cars didn’t compare to his love for Shirley Shea. They fell in love and married on June 26, 1947, spending 71 wonderful years together. Donald and Shirley built a beautiful home, full of happiness and love.

Donald was a sportsman who enjoyed nature. He loved the outdoors, camping and hunting. He spent time with other veterans at the American Legion and the V.F.W. All veterans were family to Donald. Some of his favorite years were spent on Honda Gold Wings with his wife traveling to Alaska and the Northwest Territories. He and Shirley spent twelve years working as camp host at Lake Irwin, Colorado. Donald loved to talk about those days.

He is survived by his wife Shirley Edsall, three daughters, Sandy Reed, Sally Jane Edsall and Joy Sabatino; one son, Don Edsall Jr.; six grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; one sister, Sharon Brown of Colorado, Springs, one brother Jerry Edsall of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, many other family members and friends.

A Celebration of his life will be held Thursday, July 4, 2019 at Lake Irwin / Crested Butte, Colorado, his happy place.