Don Moffitt was born on May 22, 1932 and grew up in Terre Haute, Indiana. He attended Gerstmeyer High School (class of 1951), Indiana State University (honorary doctorate, 1987) and Harvard Business School (63rd AMP class). Don was a brilliant businessman and devoted family man. He was also a loyal lifelong friend to many. Don was kind and generous and never forgot his roots.
Cutting his college years short, in 1955, Don joined the trucking company Consolidated Freightways, Inc.—which became CNF Transportation. He started on the docks and rose through the ranks, from accountant to Chief Financial Officer. After early retirement in 1988, he was summoned back to help the company turnaround from financial distress. After 45 years dedicated years, he retired as Chairman and CEO in 2000.
In addition to his business accomplishments, Don was active with many civic organizations. He was on the board of directors of Boy Scouts of America, American Red Cross, Hoover Institution, National Chamber of Commerce, among others.
Don raised four boys with his first wife, Phyllis. In his early years he worked long and hard hours to establish himself and support his young family. They were transferred with his company many times over the years, finally settling in Atherton, California. In mid-life, Don married his second wife, Billie, and had a daughter. In his free time, Don enjoyed sailing in San Francisco Bay. He also sailed in several international races, and spent many vacations sailing in tropical destinations.
Over the years Don never lost touch with his relatives and boyhood friends, “the gang”, in Terre Haute. He tried several retirement locations before moving back to Westfield, Indiana. With fond memories of growing up in Terre Haute, he chose to enrich that community with his philanthropic gifts to many causes, primarily helping local youth. The impact of his generosity will be enjoyed for years to come.
Don is survived by sons Chris Moffitt and his partner Connie Martinez, Mike Moffitt, daughter Jaime and her husband Brian Karren, grandson Blake Moffitt, and sister Colleen Moffitt. Don’s passing was preceded by the passing of his parents, James and Margaret (Long) Moffitt, his brother Robert Moffitt, sons David Moffitt and Mitch Moffitt, and his grandson Shawn Moffitt.
A visitation for Donald will be held Tuesday, August 30, 2022 from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM at Maple Avenue United Methodist Church, followed by a funeral ceremony at 1:00 PM with Rev. Laura McDonald officiating. Donald will be laid to rest in Roselawn Memorial Park's Chapel of Memories. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Terre Haute Tribune Star Christmas Basket Fund, Maple Avenue United Methodist Church, Terre Haute Boys and Girls Club, Terre Haute Children's Museum, Wabash Valley Health Center, or the Vigo County Education Foundation scholarship fund.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.roselawnfuneralhome.net for the Moffitt family.
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