Donald E. Passwater

Donald E. Passwater was one heck of a man, the epitome of kindness, patience and love, he passed on to his Heavenly Father on February 27, 2024.

Born in Huntington, Indiana on January 23, 1939, he was the youngest child of George W Passwater and Edith (Jordan) Passwater.  As the youngest, his siblings would tell you he was the most spoiled of the Passwater kids, a claim he discounted, but secretly agreed with.

Growing up in Huntington, Don was renowned for his fun spirit, hard work and even a bit of orneriness.  In high school, he and his friends would pile into a car and yell ‘the world is on fire’ while cruising down the brick laden streets of his hometown.  His parents were wise to his shenanigans, and placed a governor on their car to ensure there would be no speeding by any of the Passwater boys.  Don met the love of his life, Judith Burman, when he was 15 and she was 14.  He was the football player and she the cheerleader.  They enjoyed many dances at Huntington High School and The Swing Inn and would go to Big Boy for special occasions.  It was during this time Judie learned Don was the purveyor of quality ketchup, and a good tenderloin sandwich.  He worked at Nick’s Kitchen in Huntington for many years and was taught the art of proper tenderloin preparation.  Upon graduation from high school in 1957, Don joined the Indiana National Guard. Don and Judie married on January 24, 1958, and lived their early years in Huntington.  They welcomed two children during this time, Lori and Chris.

In the early 60s, the family moved to Columbus, Indiana.  They welcomed a son, Dave, into the family.  Judie was certain their family was complete.  However, a move to Kentucky brought about big family changes, and their daughter, Rachael was born.  While in Kentucky, Don was named a Kentucky Colonel.

Through all their life changes, one thing never wavered, Don’s faith in Jesus and the Lord above.  He was truly a student of the Bible and wanted to help others understand its value and importance.  As Don and Judie moved to Fort Wayne in 1968, then put down roots in Shelbyville in 1974, they both would seek churches to call home in each town. Lewis Creek Baptist Church would be his church home for the next 49 years.  Here, he would be deacon, moderator, trustee, Sunday school teacher and the best giver of hugs anyone could ask for.  He and Judie cherished the many friends that soon became more like family.  Don was also a Gideon, preaching the word of God to many churches throughout Indiana, and was on the Shelby County Youth Shelter board for many years.  He retired from G.E./Wellman after 23 years of service.  He then embarked on a journey working with Glenn George Funeral Homes helping many families navigate through their toughest times.

A fervent Indiana University fan, Don enjoyed I.U. Basketball and wouldn’t miss a game.  He also rooted for the Cincinnati Reds, Shelbyville Golden Bears - and became a huge fan and supporter of the Triton Central Marching Tigers and Winter Guard.  Jaunting around the state for the Marching Tiger performances brought opportunities of finding a good piece of pie.

Don is survived by his wife of 66 years, Judie.  He is also survived by son, David Passwater; daughter Rachael Ackley and husband Travis; grandson Uriah Meredith and his wife Shannon; grandson Taylor Smith and his wife Courtney; granddaughter Audrey Schlatter and husband Kaleb; grandson Alex Passwater; granddaughter Samantha Ackley; greatgrandchildren Nathan Smith, Hayden Meredith, Kynzie, Chandler and Jenna Smith, Lily Passwater and Holli Schlatter;  brother Ernie Passwater along with many nieces and nephews and an extended loving family.   He was preceded in death by his daughter, Lori Webb; son, Chris Passwater; grandson Christopher Smith; parents; brothers Bill Passwater and Jim Passwater; and sisters Lurabelle Rowell and Mary Bryant. 

He was the best son, father, grandfather, uncle anyone could ask for, and he always found the best in every situation and loved unconditionally.  He would want everyone to know Jesus - and find peach and comfort in the promise of renewed life once we leave our earthly home.

One of his favorite sayings - “Into each life must come a little sunshine - this is your ray for the day”.  Find those people who bring a ray of sunshine into your life and cherish them.

Visitation will be held at the Glenn E George and Son Funeral Home 437 Amos Road, Shelbyville, In. on Saturday, March 2, 2024, from 11:00am until 1:00pm. Funeral services will be at 1:00pm at the Funeral Home, with burial in Lewis Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.

Our family asks in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Shelbyville/Shelby County Animal Shelter at 705 Hale Road, Shelbyville or Lewis Creek Baptist Church at 1400 E County Road 600 South, Waldron

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