Donald Lee Graber, a beloved figure in Odon, Indiana, passed away at 76 on May 21, 2025, after a four-year battle with esophageal cancer, leaving behind a legacy as a devoted father, coach, and local hero.
Donald Lee Graber was born to John and Verda Graber on January 20, 1949, in Odon, Indiana.
Growing up in a close-knit family, Don was one of seven children, raised alongside his brothers Stanley, Brian, and Marc Graber, and sisters Eva Dorene, Shirley, Fern, and Sandra.
The Graber household was filled with love, hard work, and a strong sense of community, values that Don carried throughout his life.
Don attended Odon High School, where he became a standout athlete, particularly in basketball.
As a proud Odon High School basketball team member, Don played with passion and camaraderie, forming lifelong friendships with teammates. Graduating in 1967, Don’s love for the game never faded.
At Cougar basketball games, he was a familiar face, cheering alongside fellow fans Bobby and Lesli Boardman, Gary Allen, and Randy Blevins.
Don’s enthusiasm extended to Indiana University basketball, a shared love that brought him closer to his community.
After High School, Don’s Passion For Sports Took On A New Form As He Poured His Heart Into Coaching
He coached his five daughters—Anna, Sheila, Leslie, Jodi, and Beth—in softball, leading teams with dedication and pride.
His coaching highlights included guiding the 12U Acco Seed team to a state runner-up title and serving as a fastpitch coach at North Daviess.
Don’s commitment to his daughters’ success went beyond the field; he was their biggest cheerleader in all their endeavors, from academics to personal achievements.
Don’s love for his family was odd. He cherished watching his six grandchildren and one great-granddaughter grow and succeed.
Whether it was attending their events or offering a helping hand, Don was always there, beaming with pride.
Don loved working with his hands.
After high school, he began his career at Pat Larkin Lumber in Loogootee, where his strong work ethic shone through.
He later became a farmer and co-owner of City Lumber and Hardware, contributing to the Odon community through his business and service.
Even in retirement, Don stayed active, helping his family with countless remodeling projects, from fixing roofs to building memories.
People Are Showing Their Love After Don’s Passing, Highlighting How Much He Meant To Those Around Him
For four years, Don fought esophageal cancer with remarkable strength and grace.
His battle came to an end on May 21, 2025, at Daviess County Hospital, surrounded by loved ones.
Though his loss is deeply felt, those closest to him find comfort in knowing he is no longer in pain.
Kay Bechtel Stoll shared a heartfelt message:
“I’m so very sorry to learn of your dad’s passing Leslie and family. Don fought a tough & long cancer battle! You & your sisters, grandchildren & your mom too, have assurance that he is no longer in pain and was received into Heaven. Prayers for comfort and peace to all of you at this difficult time. 🙏🙏🙏”
Via Facebook
Kern Bough, a childhood friend, remembered Don as
“One of my childhood heroes. RIP”
Via Facebook
His daughter, Beth Graber Smith, also wrote,
Don is survived by his daughters Anna Parsley Graber Bontrager, Sheila Willis, Leslie Heshelman, Jodi Berry, and Beth Smith, as well as six grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.
His brother Marc Graber and sisters Shirley, Fern, and Sandra also survived him.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, John and Verda Graber, his brother Stanley Brian Graber, his sister Eva Dorene Graber, and his granddaughter Nicole Donelle.
The Graber family will receive friends on Sunday, May 25, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., and on Monday, May 26, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., at Meng Funeral Home in Odon.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, May 26, at 4 p.m. at the funeral home, with Pastor Ashley Shurtz and Dan Emmons officiating. Don will be laid to rest at Fairview Cemetery in Elnora, Indiana.
Instead of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to John 15:12 Inc. Envelopes will be available at the services or mailed to John 15:12 Inc., PO Box 7, 1048 Bloomfield Road, Plainville, IN 47568.
Donald Lee Graber’s life celebrated love, family, and community. From Odon High School’s basketball courts to coaching his daughters in softball, Don lived with passion. His legacy endures through the lives he touched.
