Donald Kermit Bishop

He was born in Knoxville, IA on June 25, 1960. He was raised in and around Marion County always saying he was related to 90% of the county. His father, Stanley Bishop, died when he was 5 and was subsequently raised by his second father, Clarence Van Waardhuizen.

Throughout his life he was always guided by his loving mother, Merna (Sherwood) Bishop. She was the one who taught him to hunt, fish and truly enjoy the simple things in life. Fishing remained his favorite pastime.

It was in Knoxville, IA, that he met and married Teresa Worrall. They had 2 children, Jessica and Katie. It was in Florida on a blind date that he met Christine. They moved to Kansas City in 1993 and married in 1996.

Eventually Don and Christine ended up in Fairview Heights, IL, where they built a home that they share with their business. Crafty Crops may have been a retreat for women, but it was built by Don for them to enjoy.

Don’s thing was fixing things. It was always said that if Don could not fix it, it could not be fixed. He almost always worked in the maintenance field from foundries to plating shops and ending at Beckwood Press where he got to travel the world building, repairing and training on large Hydraulic presses. When not at work or fishing he could be found in his beloved shop. He enjoyed building custom wood working projects from things for the house like shutters & gates to desks and cabinets. Many close family members and dear friends have his custom creations they will use and treasure for years to come.

Don’s medical challenges began in April 2017 resulting in a cancer diagnosis. He always fought to enjoy life and adapt to each new challenge he faced. Wednesday, September 25th, 2024 at 9:12 pm his fight ended. He was surrounded by his loving wife, daughter and mother. The people he loved the most and the people that loved him the most. Though his time on Earth has come to a close his spirit and heart will live on in the many lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his father, Stanley Bishop, and his sister, Terri Bishop. Don is survived by his wife, Christine; daughters, Jessica Bishop and Katie Beard; mother, Merna Bishop, second father, Clarence Van Waardhuizen; grandchildren, Honor, Kael, Phillip (Bunky), Gage, Jonathan, Shane, Ethan and Belle; brother, James Van Waardhuizen; nieces and nephew, Angela Hills, Stacey Anderson and Brady Van Waardhuizen.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, November 9 from 2-4 p.m. at Crafty Crops, 9612 Fairmont Rd., Fairview Heights, IL 62208. Friends are encouraged to share stories at www.valhallagardensandfuneralhome.com.