Harley Dean Donald (1934-2022)

DONALD, BOYSAL, HINDE, THIEDE

Posted By: Ken Wright (email)
Date: 4/10/2022 at 08:47:25

Harley Dean Donald, formerly of Marion, passed away unexpectedly on April 5 at his home (Meth-Wick) in Cedar Rapids. Harley was born on September 4, 1934, in Stockport, Iowa. He attended the Vinton Sight Saving School where he met his wife, Joyce Boysal. They were married in 1956 and had four children.

Harley was a vocal music teacher, talented tenor, summertime house painter, and “time to go make the donuts” Donutland franchisee. He loved ALL dogs and spoiled his own. He was a hard worker, and was known for not being able to sit still. He was famous for his “Harley jokes” (many of which are unsuitable to share). He never forgot a punchline and his repertoire was legendary. Fortunately/unfortunately for his children, these traits were all passed on to them in varying degrees.

Harley was proud of his kids and grandkids, and he loved visiting with family and friends. He enjoyed a good beer (Milwaukee’s Best? Really any brand would do), sips of blackberry brandy, and made a mean whisky sour. Harley liked playing cribbage, backgammon, Scrabble, poker, and pool. He enjoyed discussing and debating politics and politicians (even when he knew he shouldn’t).

Harley missed his wife greatly after her passing in 2016. Joyce, who he lovingly nicknamed Skipper, was a wonderful wife and mother, and he was thankful for and loved her and his family unconditionally. He is survived by his sister Evelyn of Texas and his four children: Jeff, (affectionately known as Heifer) and Lori Donald of Cedar Rapids; Mike (affectionately known as Mackerel) and Leanna Donald of DeSoto, Kansas; Amy (Ames) and Pat Hinde of Port Byron, Illinois; and Deanne (#4) and John Thiede of Cedar Rapids. Harley is also survived by ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren with more to come – his proudest legacy.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, April 12 from 3:30-5:30 at the Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home following a private family service. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local humane society or animal rescue in his name.