Donald R. Kegarise

Donald R. Kegarise, 97, of Kewanna, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 12:08am.

Don was born on June 7, 1928, in Frizzleburg, Pennsylvania, to the late Arthur and Sarah (Shaw) Kegarise. He was raised in New Castle, Pennsylvania, the second-youngest of twelve children and, in his words, was the “last man standing.”

From an early age, Don displayed determination and ambition. He delivered newspapers and mowed lawns to pay for flying lessons, earning his private pilot’s license at just 18. That same year, he graduated from New Castle High School and joined the U.S. Army. He proudly served in Korea and was honorably discharged in 1947.

Over the years, Don lived a full and varied life. He held numerous positions, primarily in engineering and sales, which eventually led him to relocate to Winamac. It was there he met and married Kathleen Czech in 1974. Together, they purchased and lovingly remodeled a home in Kewanna, where they raised their three children.

While working as a tool and die maker at Small Parts in Logansport, Don also pursued his passion for art. He became known for painting saw blades but also created pen and ink drawings, signs, carvings, and watercolors. He taught art classes and remained deeply involved in the local art community. In 2015, he and his wife were honored as Fulton County Artists of the Year. His work has been featured in many regional exhibits, including one currently on display at the Fulton County Public Library.

Don was also an avid bicyclist and logged countless miles over the years. Following his retirement, he once rode from Indiana to his childhood home in Pennsylvania—a journey that exemplified his adventurous spirit.

In retirement, Don and Kathy built a home just outside Kewanna, a place they cherished and carefully maintained. Don even used a portable sawmill to mill lumber from nearby trees, crafting custom doors and trim for their home with his own hands.

Throughout his life, Don remained grounded in his belief in the power of positive thinking and the conviction that everything he needed would arrive at just the right moment.

He is survived by his daughters, Andra Kegarise and Aryn Leach (Brett); his son, John Kegarise (Shannon) of Culver; and grandchildren Madison White (Ben McKown), Olivia Freels (David Ralph), Conner Freels, Morgan Kegarise, Lindsey Kegarise, Nichole Kegarise, Porter Kegarise, and Damon Kegarise.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kathy; one grandson; his parents; and all eleven of his siblings.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Fred Bauman, whose daily calls were a constant source of comfort, and to Dottie Boyce, whose regular lunches and companionship brought Don great joy. Your friendship during the past year and a half, especially as he mourned the loss of his wife, meant more than words can express.

A special thank you is also extended to the hospice nurses and caregivers, whose support and responsiveness brought peace and reassurance in Don’s final days.

Per Don’s wishes, services will be private.Memorial contributions may be made to the Fulton County Community Foundation.

Condolences may be shared with the Kegarise family via Don’s online guestbook at ransfuneralhomes.com