Donald L. "Don" Hanefeld

Donald "Don" Hanefeld, 80, of  Defiance, passed away on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center in Toledo, Ohio. 

He was born August 12, 1943 in Vaughnsville, Ohio to the late George and Mildred (Parker) Hanefeld. 

Don was a 1961 graduate of Continental High School. He was a lifetime construction Millwright Journeyman with Local 1393, and now currently Local 1090 out of Toledo, Ohio, retiring in 1998. He was a lifetime member of Defiance Moose Lodge and Eagles. Don was always very proud of serving the apprenticeship schooling from 1965-1969. Throughout Don's 33 year career, he traveled and worked all over the United States. He worked in almost every factory in Northwest Ohio and beyond. Don also served as project superintendent for many construction companies such as Northwest Mechanical, Babcock and Wilcox, and Lathrop. He always made the statement "I have forgotten more than the young people will ever know."

In the 1970s and 1980s he was the owner of several businesses in his hometown of Continental, including Hanefeld Gulf Carwash, D & G Laundry, and D & K Radiator. After retiring from construction Don enjoyed camping, traveling, and going to casinos with his 32 year fiancé, Carolyn Sines and family. He also enjoyed helping his son and daughter-in-law operate their outdoor amusement business, selling ride tickets, running miniature golf, and the skill crane trailer at the local fairs and festivals. He enjoyed interacting with the public and Don never met a stranger. He also enjoyed watching his granddaughter play sports throughout the years.

Don is survived by his son, Doug (Deb) Hanefeld of Continental, granddaughter Jessica (Scott) Deken, two great-granddaughters, Tessa and Taylee Deken, his sister Ruth Ann Everett of Bluffton, his brother Dennis (Kimberly) Hanefeld of Ottawa, and nieces and nephews. Also among his survivors include his companion and fiancé of 32 years, Carolyn Sines of Defiance, and her children and grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Richard "Dick" Hanefeld, his first wife Mary Ellen Hauter, and his second wife Kay Bauer.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 26, 2024 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at the funeral home, with Celebrant Deb Miller officiating. Burial will follow the service at Riverside Cemetery in Defiance.

Memorial donations in Don's honor may be gifted to a charity of the donor's choice. 

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