Donald G. Stevens

Donald G. (Donnie) Stevens, 89, of Mechanicsburg, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 23, 2021, with family by his side.

Born February 1, 1932 in Harrisburg, he was the son of the late Martin and Katherine (Nye) Stevens and was a graduate of John Harris High School.

He is survived by his wife Nancy (Karper Klinger), his two daughters, Debbie (Skip) Reindollar of Derwood MD and Beth (David) Giovanniello of Harrisburg, a son, Scott (Lynne) Stevens of Inver Grove Heights MN, and a brother, Ralph (Ellavee) Stevens of Harrisburg. He is also survived by a stepdaughter, Kathy (Hal) McCullough, stepson, Grant (Mary) Klinger, 10 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by 9 siblings.

Donnie, also known as “Wally” to his siblings, worked at Quaker Oats until the Shiremanstown factory closed in 2003. Though he worked there for most of his life, his real labor of love was at the movie theater. He worked for UA and Regal Cinemas for a combined total of 50 years. It was at the theatre where Donnie, as a ticket taker, would chat with many friends and acquaintances as they entered the theater.

Donnie loved baseball, country music, the challenge of a good puzzle, meeting friends for coffee, and exercising at the YMCA (where he could often be seen exercising his jaw more so than his muscles over the years). Donnie had an unassuming nature, a quiet faith, and a strong moral compass. Having said that, he was also a bit of an instigator. He loved initiating a conversation (or more likely, a debate) over a controversial topic… not infrequently on questions of politics or religion. He would sit or stand with his arms folded across his chest and with a twinkle in his eye “lob” one of his verbal firebombs, then patiently await your reaction.

As we grieve our loss, we are grateful to have had him in this world for nearly 90 years. Even more so, we are thankful that he was both able-bodied and mentally strong to the end. Today Donnie is no doubt busy catching up with old family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 13 at 11:00 am at Paxton Presbyterian Church, 3500 Sharon St, Harrisburg. Face coverings are requested.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Donnie’s name may be made to the Salvation Army.

Kimmel Funeral Home, Harrisburg, is handling arrangements.