Donald Eugene Sims of Marion, Ohio, passed away Sunday, March 25, 2012. He was born in Marion, Ohio, to Walter and Mattie Sims.
Donald was preceded in death by his first wife, Lillian, and by eight sisters and brothers.
Donald married Violet Johnson on May 22, 1998, and she survives. Also surviving are his children Larry (Karen) Sims, Connie (Chuck) Horne, and Gary (Diana) Sims, eleven grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Violet's children are Vicki (Tim) Creasap, Angie (Steve) Furer, and Doug (Alice) Johnson, and eight grandchildren.
Donald was best known in Marion for having started Sims Brothers, Inc., beginning his career when he was in the third grade at Oak Street School gathering scrap in his little red wagon to help his family financially. He retired in 1992.
Donald's loving Christian attitude carried him thru his life and his example led others to love the Lord as he did. He was never embarrassed to pray in private or in public places. He enjoyed Bible study at the kitchen table when he was no longer able to attend church.
Donald was a member of Fite Memorial Baptist Church and was active in many areas in the church. He served in the Air Force as a radioman on a B-29 during WWII. He was previously a member of Marca, Marion City, and Pleasant School Boards, board member at Fahey Bank, member of Marion Union Station, Fairfield Engineering Board member. Marion Historical Society, Kiwanis, chosen as Citizen of the Year, the Air Force Association, Marion Republican Club, Golden Endings Golden Retriever Rescue, and Meals on Wheels volunteer.
He enjoyed helping people any way possible giving his all with a loving giving spirit. He was always ready to lend a hand and a smile, and he was so very humbly appreciative of life and his blessings. He didn't ask anyone to do anything he wouldn't expect to do himself. Many times he said his business wouldn't be anything without the people who worked for him.
Donald loved his animals and very patiently helped train them. Thankfully, he was able to be in his own home until his death. He was appreciative of visitors and prayers during his illnesses. Thanks also for the support and love of the doctors, nurses and our special aide assisting in his care. Thank you to all who touched his life in some way during these difficult times.
No calling hours or viewing will be held. Private funeral services will be held for children and grandchildren only at a time not yet decided.
Donations to honor Donald's memory may be sent to Kurt Van Gorden at Utah Gospel Mission, POB 780 Victorville, CA. 92393 or to Golden Endings Golden Retriever Association, 1427 Roxbury Rd. CHE, Columbus, Ohio 43212, or to Wyandot County Humane Society in Upper Sandusky, or to Marion County Humane Society.
Arrangements are being handled by Gunder/Hall & Folk Funeral Directors. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gunderhallandfolk.com.
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