BARTHOLOMEW
Donald Gene Thickstun passed away January 31st, 2024 . He was born October 15th, 1935 to John Otto Thickstun and Mary Elizabeth Thickstun in Paragon, Indiana. Donald was preceded in death by his mother, father, daughter, Cheri Thickstun and his wife, Shirley Thickstun.
Donald married Shirley Thickstun on July 23rd, 1955 in Bloomington, Indiana. He is survived by his daughter Cindi (Doug) Foster; his beloved grandchildren Autumn (Bryan) Powers and Brandon (Jessica) Foster; his great grandchildren Madison and Nolan Sandlin, Allison, Everly and Charlie Foster, and Luke and Brynn Powers.
Donald moved to Germany with his young bride in 1958 to serve in the United States Army. Returning home to Bloomington in 1960, Donald worked at RCA and then Cummins Engine Company. Taking early retirement from Cummins enabled Don to help his wife Shirley travel to Germany with dozens of her students to stay in host homes.
Don was very active in the Color Guard with American Legion Burton Woolery Post 18 which held a special place in his heart. He was always available to participate at funerals throughout the local area. Don’s other love was his many grandchildren. Known as Papaw to his family, Don was a wonderful grandfather to his many grandchildren always saying their behavior was perfect even when it involved cartwheels across his living room.
A private calling will be held with a graveside funeral service on Tuesday, February 6th at Valhalla Memory Gardens in Bloomington, IN. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Our Hospice of South-Central Indiana. Don is under the care of Day &Deremiah Frye Funeral Home.
