Donald "Don" Howard Bailey

Donald "Don" Howard Bailey, 81, of El Dorado, Kansas, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones.
Don was born on April 27, 1942, to Howard Halstead Bailey and Pearl Louise Sammons. He was raised with values of integrity, resilience, and a strong work ethic.
Don dedicated his professional life to aviation, beginning with sheet metal work, advancing to electronics, then into complex military avionics on such aircraft as F-15s, F-16s and F-111 fighters, where his expertise and passion shone brightly. A skilled mechanic and a master technician, he approached each task with precision, dedication, and excellence.
A patriot at heart, Don served his country with honor in the United States Marine Corps, embodying the principles of service and sacrifice. His commitment to his fellow service members and his nation was unwavering.
Outside of his professional life, Don found joy in his hobbies. He spent countless hours restoring vintage Cushman scooters, showcasing his meticulous attention to detail and his love for craftsmanship. He also had an affinity for model trains and built an impressive collection. Renowned among friends and family as a handyman extraordinaire, Don had a knack for repairing, rebuilding or refurbishing just about anything that came his way.
Among his passions, none were more cherished than his love for motorcycles. Whether cruising along winding roads or tinkering in his workshop, Don was happiest when he had the freedom of the open road ahead of him.
Don will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, especially his family which includes his 3 sons, Chris (Stephanie) Bailey, of Joplin, Missouri, Ryan (Donna) Bailey, of Roosterville, Georgia, Andy (Julie) Bailey, of Warner Robins, Georgia; grandchildren, Bethanie Bailey, Savanna Bailey, Charley Bailey, Gabrielle Bailey; siblings, Barbara Brush, Toni Holbrook; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Preceding Don in passing are his parents, sisters Betty Austin and Jeanienne Wiens, and his brother Melvin “Bud” Bailey.
Family will gather for visitation on Thursday, March 14 from 5-7pm at Carlson Funeral Home.
A graveside service with military honors will take place on Friday, March 15 at 10am at Sunset Lawns Cemetery in El Dorado, Kansas.
Memorial donations in Don’s name can be directed towards the American Legion Post 81.
Please sign his online guestbook and leave a memory at www.carlsonkirbymorris.com

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