Donald Eugene Litzelman, age 80

April 25, 1942 – May 7, 2022

Donald Eugene Litzelman passed away on May 7, 2022.  Don was born April 25 ^th , 1942, in Effingham, IL to George and Viola (Keller) Litzelman of Sainte Marie.  He graduated from Newton Community High School in 1960. He completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, MO, and then returned to Sainte Marie.  He married Christine Zumbahlen on February 17, 1962, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Island Grove.  He is survived by his wife of 60 years, four children: Jim Litzelman of Arlington, VA, Cheryl Orlet of St. Louis, MO, Susan McClurg of Edwards, CO, and Tony Litzelman of Sainte Marie; Don and Christine have 9 grandchildren.  Don is also survived by four siblings: Carolyn (Ron) Kirts of Sainte Marie, Marylaine (Dave) Rohr of Springfield, MO, Joan (Ed, deceased) of Springfield, IL, and Pat (John) Mammoser of Wentzville, MO.

Don was happiest when he was farming, working in the oil fields, watching the St. Louis Cardinals, and surrounded by family and friends. He had a kind word for everyone and knew how to make people laugh. Once you met him, you had a friend for life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant brother, James, and his sister Judith Cunningham.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Heritage Shelter Care in Hutsonville, IL, a facility that provides care for Veterans. Their address is P.O. Box 278, Hutsonville, IL 62433. A celebration of Don's life will be held at 6:00 PM – Saturday, August 27, 2022, at the West End Reception and Events, 202 Museum Drive, Newton, Illinois 62448.  Arrangements are under the care of the Meyer Funeral Home in Newton, Illinois.  The obituary can be viewed and condolences left at www.meyerfh.com .