Donald A. Stossmeister, Sr.

Donald Arthur (Don) Stossmeister, Sr. was called into the arms of our Lord on Wednesday, May 3, 2023. He was born in Erie, PA on September 21, 1938 to Robert and Martha Stossmeister.

Don attended McDowell High School, leaving early to attain his GED and enlist in the United States Air Force, where he served as an Aircraft Electrical Systems Repairman from 1956 through 1968, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. Working on several types of aircraft, his favorites were the B-52 Bomber and the KC-135 Tanker. He served during the Vietnam Era with assignments that included Rickenbacker Air Base, Ohio; Thailand; Andersen AFB, Guam; and Scott AFB, Illinois, where he received his honorable discharge. Following his Air Force career he worked in many fields, however, he was especially proud to be the host and caretaker of a church owned campground in Herrick, Illinois.

Don was an active member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 740, the McKean Hose Company and the Erie County Fire Police Association.

In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by brothers Robert Stossmeister and James Stossmeister, son-in-law, John (JC) Colon, and his granddaughter, Alicia Shaffer Stalheim. He is survived by his loving wife of many years, Vanda Robinson Stossmeister; and a sister, Carol Reiger of Erie, PA. Don loved all of his children and step-children, which he considered his own; Donald Stossmeister, Jr. (Carolyn) of California, William Stossmeister (Anne) of North Carolina, Suzan Miller (Terry) of South Carolina, Verna Schoonover (Doug), Jeff Shaffer (Debbie), Jim Shaffer (Sue), Penny Davis (Gary), Presley Shaffer III (Cheryl), and Vanda Colon, all of Pennsylvania, Donna Phillips (Brad) and Dawn Feken (Mike) of Illinois, and Shawn Stossmeister (Sandra) of Missouri. He also leaves behind 53 grandchildren, 65 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. He was loved by many nephews and nieces, including Kristie Poteat (Travis) and Jim Stossmeister (Melissa) who treated him like a father.

Per Don's wishes, no services will be held. The family will host a Celebration of Life at McKean Community Park, 8798 Main St., McKean, PA on July 2, 2023 at 1 p.m.

The Glunt Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., Edinboro, is in entrusted with funeral arrangements. To send condolences please visit www.gluntfuneralhome.com.