Donald James Shimandle

Donald James Shimandle – March 12, 1937 – December 13, 2025

Donald Shimandle, age 88, passed away on December 13, 2025. Loving husband for 65 years of the late Carol Ruth Shimandle, devoted father of Donald Shimandle Jr., Lisa Curtis (Igor) and late David Shimandle. Beloved son of the late William and Lucille Shimandle, loving brother of Marjorie Arlene Bruening (Thomas), late William, Richard, Vern and Joseph Shimandle. Loved by his in-laws, Patricia Kuta, Barbara Warshaw, and Peter Vidovic. Loving uncle to numerous nephews and nieces, all of whom he cherished.

Don was a unique man. Despite enduring an incredibly traumatic childhood, due to his violent and alcoholic father, Don never chose violence. He chose a path completely different from the path that had been cleared for him as a child. He chose peace and love. He lived his life always believing in kindness. He was the family peacemaker, consistently striving to help each individual appreciate the other's perspective. He abhorred malice. He did not believe in holding a grudge, he believed in forgiveness. He believed in forgiveness so strongly that he even forgave his father. He loved and respected his remarkable sister, Margie. He adored his kind and humble mother. He was a loving husband and father. He loved his wife’s entire family. He had a truly special bond with his wife’s family. He was not an in-law to them. And they were not in-laws to him. He was family. He cherished his friends, especially his lifelong friend Eddie. His passions in life were fishing, jigsaw puzzles, western movies, bowling and watching all major league Cleveland teams. All he ever wanted in life was for those that he loved to be happy. To be loved and to love. He will be deeply missed. During his final days he stated that he missed his wife and wished to be with her.

Dad, enjoy your wish. We love and miss you both!

The Journey's End

The weary journey, long and steep,

Has finally reached its silent keep.

No more the shadows, dark and deep,

No more the tears you had to weep.

Your soul, released from earthly hold,

A story beautifully told,

Now rests in peace, a joy untold,

More precious far than purest gold.

For you, the fight is truly done,

Beneath a bright, eternal sun.

A new, calm chapter has begun,

Where quiet grace has finally won.

Remembered now in light and love,

A gentle presence from above.

We let you go, with spirits free,

In sweet, lasting tranquility.