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Micheal Allen Donathan, 78, of Forsyth, MO, went home to be with his Lord, peacefully on June 9, 2025, at his residence surrounded by his family. He was born on December 21, 1946, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Joel and Katherine (Vernon) Donathan.
Micheal was a devoted husband, nurturing father, loving grandfather, brother, and loyal friend. On June 5, 1971, he married the love of his life, Linda Hicks. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and unconditional love—a legacy that will carry on through generations.
A proud veteran, Micheal served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War as an aircraft avionics mechanic on the F-4. His service spanned the globe, taking him to Chanute AFB in September 1966, Taiwan in October 1966, Thailand in August to September 1967, Vietnam in September 1967, Japan in January to March 1968, and Korea in March to May 1968. He completed his service from September 1968 to February 1969, at Hill AFB in Utah before being honorably discharged in February 1969.
After his military career, Micheal remained steadfast in his commitment to service through active involvement in his local church. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions and shaping his relationships. He found great joy in the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing alongside his sons and beloved wife. But above all, Micheal treasured time spent with his family—those quiet, meaningful moments that defined the rhythm of his days.
In addition to his parents, Micheal is preceded in death by his brother: Paul Donathan; and grandson: Mark Allen Donathan.
Micheal is survived by his loving wife of fifty-four years; sons: Jeff Donathan and wife Amy, Darold Donathan and wife Shannon; grandchildren: Alli Sargent and husband Jacob, Joseph Donathan, Sam Donathan and wife Raegan, Caleb Donathan; brother: David Donathan; sister: Paula Piper and husband Gordon.
Micheal will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his quiet strength, his unwavering support, and the calm, steady presence that made everyone around him feel safe and loved.
Visitation was held at 5:00 pm, Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at Ruegg Funeral Home, Greenville Chapel. Funeral service was held at 11:00 am, Thursday, June 12, 2025, also in the Greenville Chapel. Bro. Will Davis ministered to the family. Bro. Louie Robinson read the obituary. Special music was provided by Joslyn Payne and Rob Elder. Jeff Donathan, Darold Donathan, Joseph Donathan, Caleb Donathan, Russ Moody, and Randy Haywood served as pallbearers. Burial followed in New Prospect Cemetery in Silva, MO with full military honors provided by the United States Air Force and American Legion Post 281 of Piedmont. Online condolences can be made at www.rueggfuneralhomes.com
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