Don A. Sturgess

Donald A. Sturgess entered into rest on Tuesday August 6, 2024, at the age of 86. Loving husband of Donna Sturgess, nee Brownlie; loving father of Andy Sturgess and Allison Sturgess; loving stepfather of Kelly (Bobby) Lyemance and Jennifer (Byron); doting grandfather of Sarah (Scott) Childs and Madeline Sturgess; step grandfather to Carter, Rylin, Bella, and Camille; great-grandfather of Brody and Blaze; cherished uncle to his nieces and nephews; beloved brother-in-law of Delee (Judy), Kirk Brownlie, and Rodney Soffner; and loyal friend to many longtime friends and coworkers like Nora, Ed, John, and many more. 

Don was the youngest of six children, born September 10, 1937, to parents the late Fred and the late Henrietta. Don grew up playing baseball and always talked about “the gang.” He went to McKinley High School in South St. Louis, graduating in 1956. Don served in the United States Army Reserves as an armor crewman and earned decoration as a sharpshooter with his rifle. Don’s 45-year career following his service to his country was in telephone communication, which consisted of wiring and infrastructure in the maintenance department at Western Electric and Lucent Technologies. 

Don was always funny and happy-go-lucky, whistling all the time. Don married his wife Donna in 2006. He often vacationed at the Lake of the Ozarks where he enjoyed taking it easy by the water and fishing. Don loved his family, and especially loved being a grandfather. He also enjoyed classical music, the oldies, cheeseburgers and fries, 3 Musketeer candy bars, cookies, and popsicles. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

Donald’s visitation will be held on Thursday August 8, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at John L. Ziegenhein & Sons South County Chapel 4830 Lemay Ferry Rd. St. Louis, MO 63129. His funeral will be held the following day, Friday August 5, at 12:00 noon, also at the funeral home. Interment in St. Trinity Cemetery following his service.