Donald Louis Will

Donald Louis Will, 78, of Dillsburg, passed away peacefully at Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center on April  23rd, spending his final days in the presence of his immediate family. 

Born August 8th, 1946, in Erie, Pennsylvania, Donald was the only child of Louis and Vera Will.  While growing up, Donald enjoyed HAM radio, playing the violin, and reading.  He graduated from McDowell High School in 1964 and from Edinboro University in 1969.  In college, he met the love of his life, Janet, with whom he would share nearly 60 years of marriage.  After finishing his bachelor’s degree in English Education, Donald served in the US Navy.  He then held different positions in the appliance repair industry before becoming a letter carrier in Harrisburg.  Donald retired after more than 20 years with the USPS.

   Donald was a faithful and loving husband, a devoted and compassionate father, and a doting and careful grandfather.  He loved music, learning, reading, maps and travel, and long naps.  Though he detested yard work (and most manual labor), he enjoyed afternoons and evenings in his backyard spent listening to music, working through a crossword puzzle, talking with family, or gazing at the night sky. 

     He had a soft spot for all of God’s four legged creatures and had a kind and empathetic heart.  He was a remarkable man who led a quiet life, preferring the company of himself or his family (or an old dog). 

     Surviving in addition to his wife, Janet, are his three children (Melissa Baker, Amy Will-Schlechtweg, and Benjamin) and five grandchildren (Kaitlyn Baker, Elliott Schlechtweg, Rory Baker, Parker Will, and Hadley Will). 

     The family is grateful to the staff at Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center and Residential Hospice for the comfort they provided Donald and his loved ones during such a difficult time.

     A celebration of life will be held at a later date.  The family asks that those who wish to honor Donald’s memory perform an act of kindness for someone in need.