Donald Nolte

Donald Irvin Nolte, 98, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, April 19, 2024 after a period of failing health.

Don was born on February 22, 1926, to Elizabeth and Herman Nolte in Kent, Ohio.  He was one of nine children.  Don attended Kent City Schools, but his senior year was cut short after being drafted, during WWll on September 28, 1944, with the rank of Sergeant.  He was honorably discharged on November 21, 1946.  Don took immense pride in his service to his country and was always willing to tell stories of those days served.  He was an active member of the VFW and the Kent Lions.  Don worked for Atlantic Richfield driving a gas tanker for 25 years.  He then established his own company, Nolte Janitorial Services, where he worked for several years prior to his retirement.

Don was introduced to Starlin “Sue” Pletcher on a blind date, and they were married on June 4, 1955.  This chance meeting would lead to 66 years of marriage.  After marriage, Don and Sue settled down briefly in Youngstown, Ohio before making a permanent home in Kent.  They had four children, Michael, Terry, Bonnie, and Jeffrey.  Don loved his family and was proud of his children and their accomplishments in life.

Don and his family were active members of Christ Episcopal Church in Kent.  Don worked diligently and tirelessly for the church painting, structural repairs, and general maintenance.  No job was too big or too small.  Those who knew Don, admired his hard work ethic.  He loved to tend to his garden and lawn and could be seen outside mowing his lawn at the age of 92.  He was always busy with home projects and was always “on call” to help his family and friends with anything that needed attention.  Always generous with his time, Don truly was the “gift that kept on giving.”

Don was an observer of life.  He was often stoic, quiet, and reflective but that only masked his keen sense of humor as he was always quick with a joke or story.

Don is survived by his daughter Bonnie, of Stow, who tirelessly and lovingly took care of him at the time of his health struggles; his son Jeffrey, of Los Angeles; daughter in law Jeane Nolte, of Stow; beloved grandchildren, Marin (Nick) Owen of Silver Lake, Derric of Astoria, NY; grandchildren, Kenzie (Justin) Tasset, of Cincinnati, Alexa of Youngstown, and Colin of Colorado; great grandchildren, Jake and Elleana Owen.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, May 10, 2024 at 10:00 am at Standing Rock Cemetery.

The family wishes to thank Traditions Health Hospice for the care and support given to Don and Bonnie.  Donations can be made to Traditions Health Hospice Care, 677 H Alpha Drive, Highland Heights. OH, 44143.

Services in the care of Bissler and Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 W. Main St. Kent, OH 44240.