Don Eldon Preston, died Saturday, June 9, 2018 at 5:07 a.m. at his residence in Ada.
He was born on September 16, 1936 in Hardin County to William and Merle (Crowe) Preston and they preceded him in death. On October 5, 1957 Don married Shirley Gardner who survives on their family farm in Ada.
Don graduated from McGuffey High School where he later served on the school board. Don worked for 35 years at the Ford Engine Plant in Lima and farmed during this time to support his family which he loved dearly and was incredibly proud of them.
Don was passionate about hunting and conservation. In November 1961, while in Canada, Don and two friends brainstormed the idea of starting the McGuffey Conservation Club. The first meeting was held April of 1962. The club was granted a charter on May 14, 1963 from the State of Ohio. Don was also a member of the Masons.
Don is also survived by six children who miss him deeply. Sons, Don Michael (Twyla) Preston of Lincoln, AL, Mark Preston of Ada, Aaron (Kay) Preston of Huntsville, and John (Christa) Preston of Ada. His daughters, Karen (Greg) Ley of Cambridge and Lynn (Mike) Manley of Huntsville. He will also be greatly missed by his 22 grandchildren, 3 step-grandchildren, and 9 great grandchildren. Don is survived by two sisters, Marva Lou (Bob) Hooper and Saundra (Rodger) Newfer; four sisters-in-law, Sharon and Mary Preston, Carol Ann Cummins, and Wilma Haven; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by one grandchild, Elliot Ley; three brothers, Robert, Irvin, and Bernard Preston; and three sisters, Helen Hensel, Geraldine Kahler, and infant sister Rosaline.
Private family services will be held at a later date with burial in Preston Cemetery, Alger.
Friends may call from 3:00-7:00 p.m. on Monday, June 11, at Hanson-Neely Funeral Home, Ada.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Ada Academic Boosters and/or the charity of the donor’s choice.
