Don was born in Zanesville, Ohio, on August 20, 1933, the fifth child of Alaine and Robert Guss Sr. He attended Ohio University in Athens and Transylvania University in Lexington, KY, where he was a member of Phi Kappa Tau fraternity. Upon graduation, Don married his high school sweetheart, Carolyn Popp Guss. Shortly thereafter, he began his service with the United States Army, during which time they enjoyed two years together in Heidelberg, Germany. They valued the opportunity this provided to explore Europe. After returning to the U.S., Don furthered his education at The Ohio State University, and embarked on a long and fulfilling career in education.
Don began as a 5th-grade teacher in Upper Arlington. During this time, he obtained his Master of Education degree from Xavier University. Don served as the principal of Greensview Elementary School for 20 years. His unique tradition was to celebrate each child’s birthday by calling them into his office and presenting them with a Greensview school pencil and shiny birth year penny. Don enjoyed collaborating with the teachers to advance the students’ education. This team effort earned Greensview national honors as one of fifty schools recognized for Excellence in Education.
After retiring, Don and Carolyn enjoyed multiple visits to Australia to see their daughter Katherine, as well as international trips with friends. Don cherished time with his grandchildren. He was always available for them, rarely missing a school or athletic event from pre-school through college. Don loved sports, especially golf, which he played into his 80’s, but his greatest passions remained his family and his faith. Don served as an elder, board chairman, choir member and property steward at Northwest Christian Church, where he was a dedicated member since 1963, forming many dear friendships.
Don was a man of character - a hardworking and caring individual. This was evident in his career in elementary education and his devotion to his family, church and friends. Despite facing several cancers and a significant accident in 2021, Don's strength and resilience were remarkable. His absence leaves an indelible void in the hearts of his family, friends and all who were fortunate to have known him.
Don is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Carolyn, daughters Katherine Sinclair (David Sinclair) of Melbourne, Australia, Karen King, M.D. (G. Paul King, D.D.S.), and grandchildren Chris King, D.D.S. (fiancé Tara Ames) and Katie King, as well as nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his sisters Irene Morrison, Roberta Launder, Pauline Fowler, and brothers Robert Guss, Jr. and Forest Guss.
The family expresses deep appreciation for the years of loving care and support from Ohio Health Hospice, his dedicated home caregivers Annette, Benette, Mae, and Celia, as well as the unwavering support of church family and friends.
Visiting hours will be Friday, February 2, from 5-7pm at SCHOEDINGER NORTHWEST, 1740 Zollinger Rd., Upper Arlington, OH 43221. Celebration of life service with reception following, will be Saturday, February 3, 1pm, at Northwest Christian Church 1340 Fishinger Rd., Upper Arlington OH, 43221, which can be viewed at this link, https://northwestchristian.org/current-worship-service/.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Don’s memory may be sent to Northwest Christian Church or OhioHealth Foundation, OhioHealth Hospice, 3430 OhioHealth Parkway, Fl. 3, Columbus, OH 43202.
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