Donald Ray Ziegler

Don was proud to play basketball with his brother Bob, leading his high school team all the way to the Iowa State Tournament in 1962 and 1963. In 1962, Don played in the One-Class Championship game, quite a feat for their town of about 2,000 residents. After graduating from Laurens High School in 1963, Don went to Iowa State on a full scholarship and was a three-time letterman in basketball and baseball. He was inducted into the Iowa High School Basketball Hall of Fame.

In 1962, Don met Linda, and they wed in 1968, going on to have two children, Natasha and Yvette. Don kicked off a decades-long career coaching basketball and teaching history across Iowa before moving to Arizona in 1988.

He was honest, hardworking, and kind toward others. He cherished his grandchildren and enjoyed coaching them and attending their activities. Don loved all sporting events and he passed doing what he loved. His last big event was attending the Army-Navy game with loved ones. He told everyone before the game this was on his bucket list.

An avid history buff, he collected quotes, one beloved one is:

“Love is our true destiny. We do not find meaning of life by ourselves alone. We find it with another.”

- Thomas Merton

Don was predeceased by his parents and his brother. Don is survived by Linda, Natasha (Luke) Tickner, Zoe, Jake, Carmen, Yvette (Michael) Piacsek, Owen, Juliet, Caitlin & Zeke.

The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to Lee Mount Vernon Sports Club.

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