Donald A. Shaw Sr., a native of Springfield, Missouri, whose journey began on June 9th, 1928, peacefully departed from this world on the morning of December 16th, 2023. Surrounded by his two beloved sons, Don Jr. and Daniel, he passed away in Springfield, Missouri, the very city where he took his first breath just over 95 years ago.

Donald A. Shaw Sr. was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Winnie, brothers Kenneth, and Robert Jr., and sisters Inez and Myrtle, as well as the love of his life, his wife Louise.

Don is survived by his sons, Don Jr. (Lana) and Daniel (Stephanie), his grandchildren, David (Ashley), Darren (Amanda), Bailey, Evelyn, and his great-grandchildren, Cohen and Maddox.  Don is also survived by his older brother James “Ike” Shaw.

Don was born to Bob and Winnie Shaw, arriving as the youngest among their six children. Growing up in the Shaw household fostered strong bonds among the siblings, but none were as unbreakable as the connection he shared with Ike Shaw, his brother closest to him in age. Their bond was a testament to the enduring strength of family ties that remained a cornerstone throughout Don’s life.

Don married the love of his life, Louise (Young), on July 9th, 1949. Shortly after their union, he was drafted into the Marine Corps during the Korean War, bravely serving his country. Upon returning home to Springfield following his military service, he dedicated himself to a career with the Frisco Railroad.

Don and Louise were blessed with two sons: Donald Jr., born in 1954, and Daniel, born in 1963.

Don’s lifelong passion for cars and all things mechanical inspired him to also venture into the car business, eventually leading him to establish his own car lot while simultaneously working for the railroad.

Due to his unwavering work ethic and determination to provide the best life for his family, Don was able to assist his youngest son, Dan, in starting Springfield’s first tanning salon. Shortly thereafter, his eldest son Don Jr. joined the endeavor, and together, they ventured into manufacturing tanning beds sold across the country.

Amidst all of Don Sr.’s accomplishments, nothing brought him greater joy than the cherished moments spent in retirement with his beloved wife Louise. Don and Louise forged a close-knit relationship with his nephew Kenneth “Butch” Shaw and his wife Carol, taking numerous trips throughout the country.

“From humble beginnings to reaching the sky, his journey echoes the testament that greatness can arise from the simplest of beginnings.”  Donald A. Shaw Sr. will forever be cherished, loved, and remembered for his life’s legacy and philosophy, “Be Happy.”

Services will be private under the care of  Greenlawn Funeral Home East.