Donald E. Elavsky

Donald E. Elavsky, 84, of Columbus, Ohio passed peacefully surrounded by his family on Sunday, November 12, 2023 after a brief stay at Carriage Court of Grove City. He was born October 6, 1939 to Edward and Susan Elavsky in Massillon, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Pat Elavsky Converse. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Diane; sons, David (Ronda) and John (Stacey); grandchildren, Colten, Cameron (Brooke), Kara (Cory), Tyler (Tess), and three precious great-grandchildren, Berkleigh, Jireh, and Lena; sister, Cheryl (Al); and brother, Rick Elavsky; along with many other family and friends.

Don graduated from Massillon Washington High School in 1957 where he was a proud Massillon "Tiger". He then went on to Muskingum College, majoring in Earth Science and Geology, graduating in 1961. This is where he met his future wife Diane who he married in 1962. He became a beloved science teacher in the South Western City School District - first at Prairie Norton, then at Norton Middle School, and finally at Westland High School. Don enjoyed coaching his son's sports teams and coached football at the Middle School, High School and College levels. Don served as an assistant football coach and then Head Coach at Westland High School before serving as an assistant coach at Capital University for 15 years.

He was an active member at St. Paul Lutheran Church - involved as the former leader of the men's group, played dartball, attended Bible Study, and enjoyed fellowship with his St. Paul family. He also was an avid backyard gardener, loved to fish, enjoyed many years of traveling to Canada with his family, fellow teachers, and his wife. He also enjoyed trips to Florida but most of all loved spending time with his family. Don simply enjoyed life and enjoyed conversing with others. It was said on more than one occasion Don "Never met a Stranger"

A Celebration Service of his life will be held on Saturday, December 9th, 2023 at 11am at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 55 Pasadena Ave., Columbus, OH 43228.

Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 to 11 am. The family invites all to join them in the multipurpose room for lunch after the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church.

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