Donald Joseph Underwood Jr. passed away on January 4, 2021 just shy of his 92nd birthday. He was preceded in death by his wife, Robin; daughter, Dawn; son in law, Ruben; and his parents, Gladys and Donald Sr. Donald is survived by his children, Don (Denise) and Noele; along with five grandsons, Ruben, Don, Jon, Connor, Joshua; and two granddaughters, Mikayla and Autumn.
Donald led a full life as part of the Silent Generation. His early years were split between Michigan and Van Wert, Ohio where he graduated from high school in 1946. Donald went on to graduate from Ohio State University, marry his high school sweetheart Robin Mosher, and join the United States Air Force.
As an active member of the military Donald flew in both the Korean and the Vietnam War, was an instructor at the Air Force Academy, and worked at the Pentagon in Washington DC before retiring after a twenty-two year career.
Donald began his second career working in the defense industry in Southern California after completing an additional degree in Electrical Engineering. After living in Southern California for 43 years he moved to Arizona the last few years to live with his family.
Although Donald’s career took him to the far reaches of the world, his heart was never far from the memories of Van Wert. He made an effort every year to attend the Van Wert County Fair where you could find him in the stands cheering on his pick during the Harness Races.
As a graduate, he never waived as an ardent Ohio State fan, especially for the Marching Band. (TBDBITL!) Earning his Electrical Engineering degree from Arizona State University put him at odds occasionally during football season but in the end, he was most proud of his Buckeye roots.
His dignified presence, civility, sense of humor, and dedication to his family provided a blueprint for all who knew him on how to live. He will be dearly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. Rest in peace Dad.
A remembrance service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Van Wert County Fair (1055 S Washington St. Van Wert, Ohio 45891) or to the Ohio State University Marching Band (P.O. Box 710811, Columbus, Ohio 43271) in his name.
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