Donald Jean Gerecke, 84, passed away on Monday, November 15, 2021, at his home in Buffalo, Missouri. He was born on Wednesday, November 3, 1937 in Cape Girardeau, Missouri to Freeda Yoder and Herman Gerecke.

Don was the widower of Sandra Gerecke, they shared over twenty-five adventurous years together. He graduated from Jackson High School in 1956 and not long after that, went on to serve in the Navy. Don joined the Navy on June 11, 1956 and was honorably discharged as an admiral on June 3, 1960. He was later employed at Lockhead Martin in Palmdale, California as an aerospace electrician for over twenty-five years. Don enjoyed traveling, electronics, reading, laughing with those close to him, taking care of his chickens, learning about anything he could, but most of all, he loved to spend time with friends and family at the bar and drink a cold beer or two. He will be remembered for his strength, determination, responsibility, enthusiasm, humor, intense news schedule and stubbornness that he's passed down through the family. Don was a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and a once in a lifetime person. He would always be sure to give a thumbs-up or a small chuckle as a response to anyone when in a good mood, and rarely, a middle finger to anyone who scared or surprised him. All those who knew Don will miss him dearly and cherish the time he had on this earth with us.

Don was met in Heaven by his wife, one daughter Robin Gerecke and one son Darrell Gerecke.

He is survived by one brother Jerry Gerecke, five grandchildren Sarah Gerecke, Kathleen Boutwell, Shawn Grable, Shane Gerecke and Michelle Gerecke, 15 great-grandchildren Stephanie, Vanessa, Rachel, Najja, Omari, Julian, Brian, Lily, Camden, Ashlyn, Autumn, Kayden, Jazzmine, Kody and Hunter and numerous nieces, nephews, friends and family.

A visitation will be held from 10-11 AM on Saturday, November 27, 2021 at the Klingner-Cope Family Funeral Home at White Chapel Memorial Gardens, 5234 W. State Hwy EE, Springfield, MO 65802 with funeral services to follow at 11 AM. Memorial donations may be made to the family in the form of love offerings. Online condolences may be made at www.klingnerfuneralhome.com