Donald Lee Elwell, 82, of Sweet Springs, MO passed away on Saturday, July 1, 2023. He was born October 4, 1940, in Sweet Springs to Kenneth and Sarah Margaret Simmons Elwell who preceded him in death. He married Betty Garner Elwell (surviving) on May 18, 1963, and they raised three sons (surviving): Gerald W. Elwell (Janet) of Parker, CO; Brian K. Elwell of Independence, MO; and Donnie L. Elwell of Marshall, MO. Also surviving are six grandchildren: Joseph, Jessica, Emily, Andrew, Leslie and Emma Elwell; two sisters: Sharon A. Hemme (John) of Buckner, MO and Violet J. Forsyth of Independence, MO; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death are his three brothers, James M. Elwell, Larry W. Elwell, and John L. Elwell.
The Elwell men have a long tradition of serving their country: Don – US Army, James – USN, Larry – USAF, John – US Army, Gerald – USAF, and Joseph (grandson) – MOANG. Combined, Don, Gerald and Joseph (father, son, grandson) have over 40 years of US military service. When combined with James, Larry and John, that number goes to over 70 years of US military service.
After serving in the US Army Don moved back to Missouri and worked for KCP&L where he worked his way up to being District Superintendent. Besides work, Don always found ways to be of service to his community, including serving on the Board of Directors of Coles Children’s Home. He was a very spiritual man, taught Sunday school for over 50 years and was a member of Living Waters Assembly of God in Sedalia. In his spare time he liked to fish, travel and work outside whenever possible. His dedication to work, family, and community will be sorely missed.
Visitation will be held from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, July 6, 2023, at Campbell-Lewis Funeral Home in Marshall, MO followed by a short service. After this service he will be interred at Fairview Cemetery in Sweet Springs with military honors.
The family requests that any memorials be donated to Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org). Friends may sign the online register book at www.campbell-lewis.com