Donald Call

Donald Lee Call, beloved husband, father and community pillar, passed away Sunday, June 9, 2024, at the age of 75 following his daily morning run in Cape Girardeau.

He was born in Cape Girardeau Dec. 23, 1948, to Ernest and Margie Bertling Call. He married the love of his life, Sharon Westrich, on June 12, 1971, at St. Mary’s Cathedral.

Donald was raised in Cape Girardeau and graduated from Cape Girardeau Central High School in 1966. He pursued higher education at Southeast Missouri State University, where he excelled both academically and athletically as a member of the basketball team, graduating in 1971.

He answered the call of duty to serve his country in the Vietnam War. Following his military service, Don’s commitment to education led him to a distinguished career as a teacher, coach and eventually school superintendent, where he touched the lives of countless students, athletes and educators with his leadership and dedication.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Don was an avid golfer, finding solace and joy on the fairways nearly every day. He had a fondness for Coca-Cola, steadfastly rejecting any notion of a Pepsi substitute.

A passionate supporter, and occasional critic, of the St. Louis Cardinals, Don’s love for the team ran deep, and he reveled in the highs and lows of each season. However, his greatest joy came from his family. He was a devoted husband, cherished father of five and proud papa to 10 grandchildren whose laughter and love brought him immeasurable happiness.

Survivors include his wife, Sharon Call; daughter, Christine (Matt) Lacy of Cape Girardeau; four sons, Donald Call II of St. Louis, Matthew Call of Cape Girardeau, Michael (Jennifer) Call of Springfield, and Mark (Sarah) Call of Strafford; grandchildren, Anna and Olivia Lacy, Sofia and Thomas Call, Lucas Call, T.J. and Amaya Releford, Cooper, Carter and Clara Call; and niece, Le Ann of New York, New York.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Gary Call.

He leaves behind a legacy of service, kindness and dedication that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 13, at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.

Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Friday, June 14, at the funeral home.

Entombment, full military honors, will be at Cape County Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to Cape Girardeau Public Schools Foundation and Southeast Missouri State University Athletics Foundation.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.