Post by Phaedrus on Nov 24, 2021 4:53:20 GMT -5
This is from Dave Shondell's FB page. We have lost one of the giants of modern volleyball. A man who helped put midwest volleyball on the map.
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God called Dr. Don home this past evening (Tuesday - 10:05 PM) with his family surrounding him and loving him in Muncie. After an incredible fight vs. several health foes over the past couple of years, Dad transitioned to his final resting place to be with our mother (wife, Betty) and so many others that he misses dearly. Our family was blessed with a one-of-a-kind father who always spent enormous time with his children. Dad was always family-first.
Don’s family (four children, ten grandchildren, and eleven great grandchildren) is completely at peace with God’s will - his timing and decision. Dad enjoyed a full and remarkable life. He was about a month away from his 93rd birthday. His determination to beat Covid (and more) was eye-opening and I’ll never forget the fight he displayed in his final days - unlike anything I have ever seen. Over the past few days, our family shared memories with Dad of the wonderful times we spent together. We read him messages from so many friends, colleagues, former players and students - and so many others who have been impacted by him in many ways. This includes Don’s role of a building Ball State Volleyball into a national power. Dad will be remembered for a long time for his efforts to promote the sport of volleyball - now the most popular team sport for women and fastest growing game for men. He’s truly a pioneer of America’s Game. No college in America has produced more volleyball coaches than Ball State.
We will have a private burial early next week - and on Dad’s request, host a “celebration of life” at an appropriate time after the New Year. Dad enjoyed hearing all of your notes and comments! Dr. Don felt your love. Thank you for your love and loyal support.
________________________________
God called Dr. Don home this past evening (Tuesday - 10:05 PM) with his family surrounding him and loving him in Muncie. After an incredible fight vs. several health foes over the past couple of years, Dad transitioned to his final resting place to be with our mother (wife, Betty) and so many others that he misses dearly. Our family was blessed with a one-of-a-kind father who always spent enormous time with his children. Dad was always family-first.
Don’s family (four children, ten grandchildren, and eleven great grandchildren) is completely at peace with God’s will - his timing and decision. Dad enjoyed a full and remarkable life. He was about a month away from his 93rd birthday. His determination to beat Covid (and more) was eye-opening and I’ll never forget the fight he displayed in his final days - unlike anything I have ever seen. Over the past few days, our family shared memories with Dad of the wonderful times we spent together. We read him messages from so many friends, colleagues, former players and students - and so many others who have been impacted by him in many ways. This includes Don’s role of a building Ball State Volleyball into a national power. Dad will be remembered for a long time for his efforts to promote the sport of volleyball - now the most popular team sport for women and fastest growing game for men. He’s truly a pioneer of America’s Game. No college in America has produced more volleyball coaches than Ball State.
We will have a private burial early next week - and on Dad’s request, host a “celebration of life” at an appropriate time after the New Year. Dad enjoyed hearing all of your notes and comments! Dr. Don felt your love. Thank you for your love and loyal support.
