Don joined the Optimist Club of Jackson, Missouri on January 1, 1977 and continues to serve on the Club's Board of Directors. He has served as East Missouri Governor (1993-1994), as OI Vice President (1999-2000), and as OI President (2008-2009). In addition, Don has served on numerous international committees. He is currently a member of the OI Foundation Board.
Don has always lived in Jackson, Missouri and has been married 57 years to his Wife Anita. They have 3 married children and 9 grandchildren.
In 1989, Don retired as a Colonel after 30 years of service in the Missouri Army National Guard. Later he retired in 2001 as CEO from Associated Sheet Metal, Inc., a company he founded in 1977.
Don now enjoys spending time with his grandchildren and his hobbies (row crop farming and antique cars and tractors). He continues to be a "volunteer" at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Jackson and the Optimist Club.