I have many great memories of my time as a music student of Mr. Durst.
I started on clarinet in the 4th grade at Meadowdale Elementary school switching to Tuba in the 7th grade which I played through high school, 1974-77. I also played bass guitar in Jazz Lab Band which I still play to this day.
His influence as a teacher and mentor prepared me to continue as a music education major in college.
In the late 90's I reconnected with him and Barbara at Central Christian Church in Kettering where we we all members.
We had many reminiscences about Meadowdale Marching Band, jazz band and All City Band which are all ensembles that he conducted. I learned so much from him about music... and life.
He was an outstanding music teacher, mentor and percussionist.
My condolences to Greg, Gretchen and your extended families during this difficult time.
May God Bless you all

I am sad to hear of Mr. Durst's passing.  Although his later years sound difficult, the photo included is lovely and brings back good memories of a fine man.   I was in the concert band and marching band at Meadowdale from 1972-1977, and Mr. Durst was an excellent music teacher across all of the instruments groups -- kettle drums, soprano saxophones, tubas, bassoons, piccolos, etc.   I doubt that he really enjoyed riding the band bus to and from football games in Springfield, but he was  as rigorous with  our on-field performances as with our on-stage concerts.  Every student remembers Mr. Durst was an alumnus of Ball State University, which he spoke of frequently and with pride!  My sympathies to the family.

Mr. Durst was my high school band instructor at Meadowdale High School 1968-1972.  I remember his energy, band camp at Island Park and practices in the parking lot for Friday night football games.  I also took private lessons on the Marimba from him.  He helped us be the best musicians we could be.  He was an important part of my foundation for the appreciation and enjoyment of music that I still hold.  Thank you Mr. Durst!!

I loved being in band under Mr. Durst. I played Clarinet, 3 yrs. Class of 73. I live in Geeenwood, Indiana just south of his kids. Small world.
Connie Hussong

Mr. Durst was my band director during all four of my high school years, 1977-1981.  He was a wonderful teacher who allowed me to experiment with a number of different instruments.  I started out playing flute, but because we had too many woodwinds for marching band, he encouraged me to switch to the F Horn.  I ended up playing that all through high school and for 2 years in college.  He also taught me how to play french horn, oboe, and baritone saxophone.  I have many fond memories of playing at football games, in parades, and even once for President Jimmy Carter, all under Mr. Durst's leadership.  I am truly grateful for his enthusiasm and influence in my teen years.  RIP Mr. Durst

Mr. Durst had a profound impact on my life. He was my band director from 4th grade through 12th grade at Meadowdale Elementary and High School. He taught me to play flute, encouraged me to participate in other opportunities such as summer band, and private lessons, nominated me for All City Honors Band and other honors bands, and nominated me for Who’s Who. He also allowed me to learn and play other instruments and because of this my repertoire was greatly expanded. This prepared me to begin my college education in music. Perhaps the greatest thing he did for me was to select me to be Drum Major during my sophomore through senior years ending in 1982. He taught me leadership, showmanship, and musicianship. I probably caused his retirement in 1980 when I was nearly set on fire with a fire baton  at the Montgomery County Fair.  I don’t think I ever saw him so shaken! 
Mr. Durst was kind and patient even when we pushed him beyond what any human should have had to tolerate. I will always be grateful to him for everything he did for me and my love of music. He was truly special and I will never forget him. 

Condolences to the family and prayers for him. He was our director the last year I was at Meadowdale, 1967-68.  He helped many of us become better amateur musicians, and some professionals as well.  Today,  I play in four community bands and three brass quintets, in the Fort Myers area.   Thanks Mr. Durst, for helping to develop a love of music lasting a lifetime!

Such a great man and many good times as a high school band student both marching band and concert band🎵
Many prayers and condolences to the family and friends 💙🙏💔🙏

 I was in the marching, pep, and concert band from 1975-1979 and have so many good memories. 

 Mr. Durst was a huge influence in my life.   He gave me an opportunity to be the first female drum major - a big chance to take on a sophomore who loved music and could (sort of) twirl a baton.   I enjoyed working with him on marching band shows for the three years I was drum major - I learned so much that I could later use in my career as a tap/ballet/jazz dance instructor.   

Mr. Durst encouraged everyone to be the best they could be and supported us when we would take a chance on something - whether trying a new instrument, getting ready for competition, and sometimes just in life itself. 

He was also a really good sport - from ice cold water poured over his head at band camp to those occasions where some individuals (I have heard - ha ha) TP'd his house.     He was just a terrific person and a fabulous band director and role model.   

He is so missed but the great memories will live on in those who knew him.

My condolences to the family.   


So sorry to hear about Donald, or as I remember him "Mr. Durst". I was a drummer in the Meadowdale High Scool Band (68-71) and have always kept him alive in my memories, and there were a lot of good ones. Prayers go out to the Family Members.

OBITUARY

Donald Lee Durst

October 17, 1930 – March 23, 2019

Tobias Funeral Home - Far Hills Chapel

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