Donald (Don) Frank Gough was born on August 8, 1932 in the Westside of Evansville. Don was 90 years old and he lived life to the fullest for each of those years. On October 8, 2022, he passed away in his home, surrounded by his loving family.
Don attended Reitz High School before be joined the Navy in 1952. Don was stationed in San Diego, California, where he proudly served on USS Hancock. He and Barb were married on January 20, 1962 and resided in Evansville. Anyone that knew Don, also knew of his deep love for Barb. She was truly his soul mate and the love of his life.
When he returned from the service, Don worked as a Laborer and then a Cement Finisher. Most of his career was spent finishing cement with Hicks and Sons Construction Company. He was a hard worker and a member of Locals 561 and 566. Don had belonged to the Eagles, Central Turners, the Moose Lodge and the Owls. He was a lifetime member of the VFW 1114 and a proud member of the Tri-State Clabber League. Don was president of the South Youth Baseball League.
Don stayed active, coaching baseball for Jeff and later supporting Jeff’s basketball and football through High School. He loved attending Vicki and Tara’s dance recitals and Tara’s Basketball games; then later all of the games and activities of the grandchildren. Don enjoyed playing basketball and golf. He loved bowling, especially with Jeff. Don loved his Children, Grandkids and Great Grandkids so much. He never met a stranger and loved joking around with other people. After retiring from his trade, Don began a new career at JC Penny. He loved his job there and all of the people he met. He was frequently seen telling a joke, performing his dance moves or telling stories. Don was strong. Don was kind and compassionate. Don will be deeply missed.
Don is survived by his loving Wife of 60 years, Barbara Jean (Mount) Gough; Son, Jeff Gough (Susie); Daughters: Vicki Keach and Tara Gough; Grandchildren: Chantel (David) Russell, Jordan (Rachel) Gough, Alyssa (Jacob) Baumhoer, Airica (Zach) Russell, Alec (Kayla) Arrigo, Adam Norrington, Addison Norrington; Great Grandchildren: Chase, Mason, Dalis and Mirra Russell; Lyla, Owen and Nora Gough; Brynlee Baumhoer; Braxton, Landon and Kyler Russell; Braxton and Zoey Arrigo; Sister: Kay Robertson, and many loving Nieces and Nephews.
Don was preceded in death by his Father, Frank Gough, Mother, Phoebe Gough and Step-Mother, Madge Gough; Brother: Bob Gough; Sisters: Betty Jo Varner, Sonja Charron; Vicki’s Fiancé, Alonzo Barrett; Aunts: Ada Cotton, Thelma Morton, Georgia Schemel and Alice Williams.
Don made friends wherever he would go. We are appreciative of the help and support from family and friends. We would like to thank the staff of Aseracare for their loving care and support of Don during his last days. A Celebration of Life will take place on November 19, 2022 from 5:30pm – 7:30pm at Lakeside Manor Community Center (3201 North Green River Road, Evansville, IN, 47715). All family and friends are welcome to attend.
Tinker says
This man was more than a good man, he was a great man and if you knew him you knew his passion for make everyone feel like family. He was special human being that the world needs more of. Thank you for looking after me.
Phyllis Simmons says
Cousin Donnie was a pleasure to be around. He had a loving and caring heart. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Patty Lou says
Barb, Jeff, Vicki, Terra, and Family
I am very very sorry for your loss.
Uncle Donnie always had a smile on his face and went out of his way to make people laugh. He was one of a kind. He lit up when ever he spoke about his family. He loved all of you very much. My favorite memory was at a party at Frank’s camp in Griffin and when him And Aunt Barb got there he could barely move and He said Aunt Barb had been rubbing down with ben-gay for a week so he wouldn’t be doing any dancing. But yet a little later Frank played the song Good Ole Time Rock n roll and Uncle Donnie literally jumped over his cooler that was sitting in front of him and started dancing as if he forgot he had been in pain all week.
And we all cracked up. I can even remember his masked he wore at all the Halloween parties it was so funny. But that was him always making people laugh and being life of the party. So many memories of him dad and uncle Gene singing Elvira at the parties. So many wonderful memories. He will be greatly missed.
Love and prayers
Patty Lou
Sheila Cotton Hilt says
Barbara and family, we are sorry to hear of Donnie’s passing. I always remember Donnie with a big smile! You all are in our thoughts and prayers. May God comfort you. Hugs, Sheila Cotton Hilliker and Jim Hilliker.
Cathy Wters says
Barb, sending all my love thoughts and prayers to you and your family. I can’t thank Don enough for all he’s done for my children and grandkids and for all the laughs we’ve shared over the years. What a great role model he was for my son David and my grandchildren. We will miss him!
Cathy
Charmaine Peters says
Barb, I am so sorry for the loss of your wonderful Don. He was a great friend that like to tease me about him playing bingo, and never missed the chance to tell me when he won. He loved the neighborhood and the neighbors loved him! He always had a joke or story to tell, and more than once! He will definitely be missed in the neighborhood as he never met anyone he didn’t have a smile for.