Donald L. Masters, 63, passed away suddenly in the early morning hours of April 1, 2025.
Donnie was born on March 2, 1962 to Donald Eugene and JoAnn (Hollars) Masters in Marion, Indiana. He graduated from Marion High School in 1980. He was recently employed at Dollar General Distribution as a laborer and formerly worked at GenCorp and Tulox Plastics. A hard and diligent worker, Donnie survived the closings of both factories before joining Dollar General.
Donnie is survived by his mother, JoAnn Masters of Fairmount, IN, his brother, Scott Masters of Hampstead, NC, his sister Hope (Rick) Schuler of Marion, IN, and by his children, Dustin L. Masters of Fairmount, IN and Kristy (Nick) Frank of Jonesboro. Also surviving are grandchildren Lanie, Ryder, and Malie Frank and Jayden and Miah Corey. Nephews Scott (Alexandra) Schuler, Brandon Schuler, and Jordan (Katie) Masters and nieces Brooke Stephens, Casey Goble, Shelly (Kyle) Fanning also survive. Donnie is also fondly remembered by several great-nephews and nieces, aunts, uncles, cousins, and lifelong friends.
Preceding Donnie in death is his beloved father, Donald E. Masters, formerly of Marion, IN, grandparents, Thomas and Bernice Masters, Bynam and Maude Hollars, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Donnie was a devoted sports enthusiast who was an avid supporter of whoever he was betting on. He loved to talk any kind of sports with anyone and everyone. He was an enthusiastic fan, never holding back on his opinions and advice for teams and players. When asked which team was his favorite, he always replied, “I like winners!” He coached his children as they grew up as well as countless numbers of Marion youth. As a coach, Donnie consistently picked players who needed more than just a coach. He chose kids who didn’t have reliable transportation to practices and games, kids who needed a caring mentor, and kids whose needs extended beyond the field of play. He coached more than the sport. He coached by modeling a lifestyle of caring about others and dealing with life’s ups and downs. The impact felt by so many of his young players molded them into productive young people and successful adults.
Later in life, Donnie loved nothing more than watching and cheering for his grandchildren as they became involved in sports. His favorite teams at that point were any team the grandkids played on. He attended as many games as he possibly could and spent many days working with them on the fundamentals, all the while setting an example for them that will forever be a treasured memory.
Donnie was a kind and caring man. He was always willing to give to others less fortunate than himself and enjoyed the company of friends and family. He was a master story teller and had many amusing and entertaining tales that kept everyone laughing and informed. He often came up with unusual, funny nicknames which only he and his friends and family truly understood.
Donnie was a simple man who always favored the underdog. He didn’t have much, but what he did have was generously shared with others. His smile was broad; his laugh was hearty; and his heart was boundless.
Donnie loved golfing and was looking forward to perfecting his game in his retirement and was always up for a game of poker. He also had planned to travel with his brother, Scott, to as many major league baseball stadiums as possible. Donnie was a Christian man having accepted his salvation many years ago, and the family is certain that he is living in the presence of God and enjoying the glory of Heaven.
Funeral services for Donnie will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025 at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, Storey Chapel, 400 E Main Street, Gas City, Indiana starting with viewing from 10 AM-12 PM and a service immediately following. Burial will be at Gardens of Memory, 11201 S Marion Rd 35, Marion, Indiana 46952.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
