April 16, 1937 – December 25, 2019
Donald Edward Elliott, who taught for 32 years in the Muskegon Public Schools until his retirement in 1995, died on December 25, 2019 in Noblesville. He was 82 years old.
He was born in Montreal, Canada, on April 16, 1937 to Ernest Elliott and Irma (Ohnesorge) Elliott. The family moved back to the U.S. and Don grew up in Park Ridge, Ill. After graduating from Main Township High School, he served in the U.S. Army as a Specialist E-4 with the 82nd Airborne.
Don earned a bachelor’s degree from Knox College with a double major in English and Social Studies. He received a master’s degree in Outdoor Education from Michigan State University.
During his professional career, he taught Civics, English, American History, World History and Geography while working at Bunker Junior High School, Muskegon Senior High School and with the Adult Education program.
Don served 10 years as a volunteer firefighter with the Norton Shores Fire Department. He was an actor appearing in performances at the Port City Playhouse and the Civic Theater. A member of the Muskegon Yacht Club, he enjoyed sailing and sailboat racing. He also enjoyed golfing, was an avid railroad enthusiast and a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association.
On March 19, 1983, he married Jane (Roelofs) Elliott. In addition to his wife, Don is survived by their daughters, Debbie Cheek, Hartford, N.C., Mary Elliott, East Grand Rapids, Mich., and Monique Bullard, Whitehall, Mich.; daughter-in-law, Linda Deaton, The Villages, Fla.; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
No services are planned. Don’s family has entrusted his care to Randall & Roberts Funeral Homes of Noblesville.
Condolences: randallroberts.com