Don Girton, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, teacher, coach, and mentor, passed away June 20, 2025. He was born on October 17, 1936, to Emma Girton Harris and Jasper "Jap" Girton in Harmony, Indiana with his older brother, Dick Girton.

Growing up in the heart of the Midwest during the Great Depression and World War II, Don learned the value of hard work early on. He spent his childhood helping at his parents' general store, running chickens and produce from local farms. From these early experiences, Don developed a lifelong love for working with his hands—an appreciation he often shared with Dick.

After graduating in 1954, Don worked at a mechanic's shop during his summers and developed an interest in mechanical engineering. This passion led him to Purdue University, where he studied engineering before realizing his true calling in teaching and coaching. During his Purdue years, Don became an avid player of poker and billiards—hobbies that remained a part of his life but were a distraction to studying the difficult math needed to become an Engineer.  Ultimately, Don chose to pursue a career in education, where his heart truly lay. This was the reason he told everyone to "Learn your Math!

Don and Isabelle were married in May of 1958. Then in 1959, Don went in the Army and served as a medic and company clerk in Germany.  He returned from the service; they welcomed two daughters: Brenda Sue in 1962 and Lisa in 1966.

He began his teaching career at Amo School and when Cascade High School was opened, he worked there throughout the rest of his teaching career.  He then continued his education earning a master's degree in counseling. He found his greatest fulfillment in guiding and motivating students, particularly those who struggled academically or socially. Over his 30-year tenure in Cascade High School, he taught general science, coached, and mentored as a guidance counselor. Known for his belief in every student's potential, Don formed lifelong connections with many students, watching them grow into successful and compassionate individuals.  Even after retiring in 1992, Don's passion for people and learning never waned. He turned his love for classic automobiles into a thriving business, selling car parts and building relationships with car enthusiasts. Don, along with Isabelle and their daughters, spent countless summers scouring car dealerships on their way to family vacations to Florida. His business flourished as the internet grew, and he expanded his reach through eBay, connecting with customers worldwide.

An avid people person, Don could always strike up a conversation and quickly get to know someone. He believed that if you wanted to connect with someone, all you had to do was ask them about themselves. "That's the way to get people to open up," he often said.

Don's most cherished role, however, was that of a grandfather. He adored his four grandchildren—Jackie (nursing student), Valerie (Occupational Therapist, OTD), Alexander (Electrical Engineer), and Preston (Mechanical Engineering student).  He offered them wisdom and guidance just as he had his students. Family holidays were filled with homemade meals, poker games where he passed on his strategic skills, and movie nights that left everyone laughing. Above all, Don instilled in his family a profound respect for those less fortunate, encouraging them always to lend a helping hand.

In his later years, Don could often be found outside fighting weeds and mulching.

Don is survived by his devoted wife of 67 years, Isabelle; daughters Brenda (Daniel Fager) and Lisa and little Miss Mattie (cat); and his four grandchildren, Jackie, Valerie, Alexander, and Preston. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

In remembrance, plant a perennial flower, mentor a student in math, or take the time to learn something new—it's never too late to start.  Give compliments frequently.   Life is a journey, and it's never too late to learn.

Services will be held at Hall Baker Funeral Home Plainfield IN, August 23rd with visitation 1pm service at 2:30.