Donald Robert Albaugh, 76, died from complications of ALS on January 2, 2010. He passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family.
Don was born on December 8, 1933 to Floyd and Nina Albaugh and graduated from Elkhart High School in 1952. It was at Elkhart High that he met Janet, the young lady that would become his high school sweetheart. They were married on July 11, 1952. Don was prepared to go to Simpson College until Floyd knocked on his door and asked, "Do you want to farm?" Moved by such inspiration, he borrowed $1,000 from the bank and proceeded to farm in the Elkhart area for his entire life.
A Korean War Veteran and member of the Albaugh-McGovern American Legion Post #42, Don served as Deacon of the Elkhart Christian Church, charter member of the Elkhart Jaycees, North Polk School Board President, and member of the boards of Enterprise Elevator, Iowa Selective Service, Polk County Condemnation, and Polk County Fair.
Don enjoyed sports as a player, coach, and fan. He was a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals baseball and Iowa Hawkeye football fan. He played for and supported the Elkhart Merchants softball team and enjoyed golfing with his wife and friends, although like most Albaughs he never quite mastered the intricacies of the game. As devoted husband, father and dearly loved grandfather, Don was a North Polk High School athletic and music booster for over 40 years. Even though his children and grandchildren inherited his "vocal" passion for sports, they're just glad he yelled at the games, rather than the concerts.
Don enjoyed his gambling expenditures with Janet, whether it was as far away as Vegas or Laughlin or as close as Prairie Meadows. He enjoyed traveling to Scottsdale during the winter months. Don and Janet met so many great friends at Sierra Grande, cherishing the many great memories made.
Family includes his beloved wife of 57 years, Janet (Fortune) of Elkhart; children Randall of Ankeny, Robert (Karla) and their sons Tyler and Logan of Elkhart, Thomas and daughter Danielle of Ankeny, Steven of Lakeville, MN, and Michael (Megan) and their sons Evan, Davis and Austin of Dublin, OH; sisters Louise Green of Altus, OK and Maxine Owen of Elkhart. Don was preceded in death by parents Floyd and Nina; brothers Kenneth, Noel, Dean, Larry; and brother-in-law Joe Green.
Visitation will be Wednesday, 5:00 to 8:00 pm, at Ankeny Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 11:00 am SATURDAY at Elkhart Christian Church and burial with military honors following at Elkhart Cemetery. Viewing will only be offered at Ankeny Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Elkhart Christian Church.