Donald "Don"

Scholebo

Donald James Scholebo Sr., lovingly known as "Don," passed away peacefully on October 31, 2026, at the age of 80, surrounded by family.

Born in Sparta, Illinois, to Otis and Frances, Don grew up in Granite City before eventually making Missouri his home.

Don was a man of quiet strength, a kind heart, and a warmth that made everyone feel welcome. He never met a stranger, always had a joke ready, and had a special way of making people smile. His quick wit, humor, and genuine kindness touched everyone who knew him.

For more than 30 years, Don dedicated himself to McDonnell Douglas, later Boeing Aircraft. Beginning as a machinist, he worked his way into engineering and took great pride in the aircraft he helped build. After retiring, he continued doing what he loved through his remodeling business, "Don's Remodeling."

Building and fixing things were among Don's greatest passions. Whether working on a carpentry project, repairing an old car, or tinkering in his pole barn, he was happiest with a project in front of him. A true perfectionist, he rarely settled for "good enough." If something was broken, Don was the one to call—and if he couldn't fix it, he probably wasn't done trying!

Don also loved music and dancing. It was actually dancing that brought him together with his beloved wife, Elaine, beginning a love story filled with 37 years of love, laughter, and memories.

Above all, Don cherished his family. He had a special place in his heart for animals, especially dogs, and was a gentle soul who loved deeply and made sure those around him knew it.

Don is survived by his loving wife, Elaine Scholebo; his daughter, Carla (Mike) Harris of Collinsville, Illinois; his stepdaughter, Nicole (Gary) Becker of St. Louis, Missouri; and his stepson, Rick Whittall (Shannon Spiess) of Sullivan Missouri.

He was a proud and loving grandfather to Joshua Norbury; Caelyn (Clay) Snodgrass; Taylor (Josh) Landers; Brendon Roe; Emerson Becker; Paige Whittall; Jadyn Whittall; Landen Whittall; and Cheyenne Michael. He was also blessed with a great-grandchild, Lennon Landers.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Otis Scholebo and Frances Moehle; his sister, Diane Hill; his twin brother, Ronald Scholebo; and his son, Donald Scholebo Jr.

One of the most special things about Don was that he never left those he loved wondering how he felt about them. Through sweet texts, handwritten cards, stories, and everyday conversations, he made sure his love was always known. He never let a loved one leave or hang up the phone without saying those three little words: "I love you!" And he meant every single one.

His family finds comfort in knowing that his love lives on through those words, the memories, and the countless moments that will forever bring smiles through the tears.

Don was truly one of a kind—a loving husband, devoted father, proud grandfather, talented builder, music lover, dancer, jokester, and friend to everyone he met. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and kindness that will be cherished forever.

He may have hung up his tools and left the dance floor, but the love he built and the memories he made will last a lifetime. He will be missed beyond measure and loved beyond words.

"Grief is the price we pay for having the privilege of loving so deeply."