Donald G. Scott

Donald Gene Scott, 89, of McPherson, KS, peacefully passed away on Sunday, April 20, 2025, surrounded by family at The Cedars, McPherson.

Donald was born in the home of Everett and Faye (Coe) Scott in Alma, Nebraska on February 26, 1936. The last born of seven children, he came into a home which had just experienced a devastating flood, destroying the house, farm and all the earthly assets except the strong faith in God and love which bound them together as a family. They moved to Colorado soon after, and Donald spent his growing up years near the Rockies, which he grew to love.

Upon graduation from Loveland High School in 1953, he attended Westmar College in Le Mars, Iowa, and later taught school in Kellogg, Iowa. Feeling the call to serve his church, he went to Red Bird Mission in Beverly, Kentucky to teach and later become Principal of the high school there. On July 22, 1960, he married Donna-Vee Strutz, and they soon added children, Tom, Sue, and John, to their union. In 1974, they moved to McPherson, Kansas where Donald worked at Central College as the Dean of Students. In 1993, he joined the faculty of Hutchinson Community College as a counselor and teacher until his retirement in 1999.

Donald loved to work with people and create humor, be it as a Kiwanis member, Sunday school teacher, or as a member of one of the many church boards and committees he served on. He used his wooden puzzles and crafts as a means to bring happiness and fun into the world. His greatest love was to help the underdog and encourage them toward success. He loved to ski in the mountains and once stated, “I feel so close to God when I look over the beautiful, massive, and majestic mountains, which He created.”

A love for his family was reflected in his life and prayers as he endeavored to lead them by example, toward a closer walk with God.

Donald is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Donna-Vee of the home; three children, Thomas Scott (Ginna) of McPherson, KS, Sue Hartley (Bob) of Apple Valley, MN, and John Scott of Loveland, CO; a brother, Paul Scott (Mary) of Loveland, CO; brother-in-law, Roy Lasater; three grandchildren, Erin Snook (Jamie), Amber Coursen (Jeremy), and Brienne Toler (Jason); 11 great-grandchildren; and many extended relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Eileen Murray (Allen), Cleo Farmer (Paul), Bonnie Lasater, Raymond Scott (Joyce), and Clarence Scott (Ila).

In accordance with Don’s wishes, his body was bequeathed to the University of Kansas School of Medicine.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM, Monday, May 19, 2025, at the First United Methodist Church with Rev. Andrew Conard officiating. A reception will follow in Hess Hall.

Memorial donations are suggested to Red Bird Mission (Beverly, KY) or Central Christian College in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.