Donald G. Duprey Sr., age 85, of Marion, died peacefully Thursday evening, February 14, 2013, at Partners of Marion Care Facility, surrounded by his loving family, following an extended illness.
On July 8, 1927, Don was born in Tuscola, Illinois, the youngest of four sons of the late Ellis and Golda (Logan) Duprey. He was raised in Van Wert, Ohio, attending schools there until his family moved to a farm in southern Marion County, where he completed his senior year at Pleasant High School graduating in the Class of 1945. Knowing he wanted to be a farmer from a young age, he participated in the F.F.A. programs in Van Wert and Pleasant schools.
Shortly following graduation, Don was set up on a blind date by mutual friends sixty-five years ago, on February 15, 1948, with Marilyn Harvey. After one night at the movies they both knew they were meant for each other. They were then married on March 12, 1950, at the Radnor Congregational Church, and have cherished their every moment together and lovingly raised three sons.
Carrying on his family’s tradition of farming, Don enjoyed farming all of his life. His trademark in farming was raising Angus cattle, which he and his family showed for many years. He was especially proud when his son chose to carry on his family’s legacy by continuing to farm their family farm. He was a member of the Ohio Angus Association, and was a past member of the Marion County Angus Association, holding many leadership positions with them.
Wanting to share his love of farming with future generations, Don was a 4-H advisor for 38 years, serving on the extension advisory board and as a chairman of the sale committee.
In addition to farming, Don worked for thirty-six years at the Whirlpool Corporation in Marion, retiring in 1991.
A man of faith, Don was a member of the Epworth United Methodist Church. He and Marilyn also were members of the Pleasant Senior Center.
With a love for nature, Don spent most of every day outdoors. His love for nature ran so deep that he even preferred tractors without cabs.
Most important of all to Don was his family. He was the patriarch of the family, always looking out for everyone. He especially loved their family dinners, when he was surrounded by his entire family. They will forever remember him for his thoughtful, kind and loving dedication to all of them.
He will be dearly missed by his beloved wife, Marilyn Duprey of Marion; three cherished sons: Donald G. Duprey Jr. of Marion, Jeffrey (Mary Ellen) Duprey of Waldo, and James (Bronwyn) Duprey of Columbus; six precious grandchildren: Alex, Nolan (Kate), Jessica, Tyler, Alyssa and Austin Duprey; a great-granddaughter, Bailey Duprey; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Including his parents, Don was preceded in death by his three older brothers: Robert, Wayne and Larry Duprey.
The Duprey family will greet friends from 4 – 7 p.m. on Tuesday, February 19, 2013, at the Denzer-Farison-Hottinger& Snyder Funeral Home, 360 E. Center St., Marion. Services honoring his life will also be held there on Wednesday at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. David Hoffman officiating. Burial will follow in Marion Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Epworth United Methodist Church, 249 E. Church St., Marion, OH 43302.
Denzer-Farison-Hottinger& Snyder Funeral Home is honored to have been chosen to serve Don’s family and your private condolences may be expressed to them by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.
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