Donald R. Breon

Donald R. Breon of Millheim was called home by his Heavenly Father on Thursday, October 27, 2022 at the age of 89. Born on April 18, 1933 in Aaronsburg, he was the only child of Ralph and Marion Breon, who preceded him in death. 

Donald met the love of his life one fateful August day, having spotted her sitting on a bench at the Great Grange Fair. He took Shirley Ripka as his bride on June 1, 1953. Together they raised two children, Rick Breon (Lisa) and Diane Casher (Ed). They were married for 57 years, until death did they part when Shirley entered into her eternal rest in 2010. In addition to their two children, Donald is survived by his two grandchildren Jason Showers (Marcy) and Lori Donatelli (Zach), and five great-grandchildren Owen and Wyatt Showers, and Zoe, Ava, and Carly Donatelli. Nothing brought Donald greater joy than his family. 

Donald served proudly in the United States Air Force before his lifelong career as a carpenter. While he worked for Ronald W. Johnson Construction for more than 20 years, his true passion was building furniture in his wood shop.  With his son by his side, he built the home in Millheim where he and Shirley raised their family and later helped Rick build his own family home in Aaronsburg. Much to Shirley’s chagrin, sawdust was a staple in the Breon home and his grandchildren have fond memories of trying to watch the TV over the sound of power tools being run in the basement shop. 

In addition to his woodworking, Donald was a Boy Scout Leader for Millheim Troop 88. He was an active member of the New Hope Lutheran Church of Spring Mills where he was a dedicated kitchen volunteer for their monthly Public Suppers. Donald loved to bowl, and was a member of the Millheim league for many years. And when the weather got warm, Donald could be found at the Belle Springs Golf Course, a hobby he enjoyed sharing with his son and granddaughter. 

While Donald will be greatly missed, his family is delighted to know that he has been reunited with his bride and is in the presence of God.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10:00 – 11:00 am on Monday, November 7, 2022 at the Steven R. Neff Funeral Home in Millheim. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 am with Pastor Lauretta Dietrich officiating.  Donald will be laid to rest in Fairview Cemetery in Millheim.  In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the New Hope Lutheran Church Food Pantry, 119 Cobblestone Court, Spring Mills, PA 16875.  Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.stevenrnefffuneralhome.com.

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