Donald “Don” M. Willson of 445 W. Neshannock Ave., New Wilmington, died at 10 a.m. Sunday morning (11-30-08) in his residence. He was 74.

Mr. Willson was born on May 15, 1934, in Swissvale, Pa., a son of Clinton and Beatrice Meyer Willson.

His wife, the former M. Elaine Stuart, whom he married May 19, 1961, passed away May 20, 1987.

He was a graduate of Swissvale High School Class of 1952 and held a bachelor of arts in accounting from the University of Pittsburgh and a master of business administration from Duquesne University, also Pittsburgh.

Mr. Willson retired as a colonel from the U.S. Air Force, beginning his flying career as a naval aviation cadet at Pensacola, Fla., in January of 1955. He flew in the U.S. Marine Corps until September of 1963, then ended his 35-year flying career as the Deputy Commander of Operations with the 171st Air Wing (ANG) in January of 1991.

Don was an active member and a past deacon and trustee at New Wilmington Presbyterian Church; was past president of the New Wilmington Kiwanis Club; and a past secretary and treasurer of the Grove City Country Club.

He participated in the Presbyterian church’s mission outreach having made several mission trips to Sabenta de Yasica in the Dominican Republic. He was also very active with Habitat for Humanity and Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, having made five trips to the Katrina disaster area.

He was a member of the Lawrence Club, Kiwanis Club, Grove City Country Club and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6233 in West Middlesex.

He was a very active individual investor and actively participated in two investment clubs over a period of many years. He was a benefactor to Westminster College, New Wilmington; a member of the 1852 Legacy Society; and had an endowed scholarship at Westminster in memory of his wife, Elaine.

He is survived by: his brother, George L. Willson, Wenachee, Wash.; his sons, Professor Clinton S. Willson, Baton Rouge, La.; and Capt. Ross S. Willson, Portland, Oregon; four grandsons and a granddaughter.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, 3208 Wilmington Road, New Castle 16105; or Habitat for Humanity, 1 Library Place, Suite 107, Duquesne, PA 15110.

WILLSON

Donald “Don” M., 74, of 445 W. Neshannock Ave., New Wilmington.

Calling hours: 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday (12-4-08) in SMITH FUNERAL HOME, 310 W. Neshannock Ave., New Wilmington.

Service: Funeral service at 11 a.m. Friday (12-5-08) in New Wilmington Presbyterian Church, South Market Street, with the Rev. Lisa Hickman, associate pastor, officiating.