Donald John Ressel

Donald John Ressel, veteran of the United States Navy, 79, of Rocky Mount, passed away on the evening of Sunday, March 1, 2020, at home, surrounded by his wife and loved ones. He was born April 14, 1940, in Cape Girardeau, MO, to Moses J. and Ivy C. (Pfefferkorn) Ressel.

On November 29, 2014, he was united in marriage to Katherine L. Menefee at Sacred Heart Church in Sedalia, MO.

Don was a 1958 graduate of Sacred Heart High School. At age 18, he entered the United States Navy and served six years of active duty, followed by six years in the reserves. He was honorably discharged as a Navy Lieutenant (O3). Following his time in the US Navy, he spent 18 months at Central Missouri State University, and was then offered a job flying for Trans World Airlines (TWA). During his time with TWA he served as an instructor, check pilot, and after 27 years he retired as Captain.

As a certified American Sailing Association instructor he was able to share his love of sailing with others. He taught lessons for many years at the Ozark Yacht Club (OYC) in Lake Ozark, MO. In addition to teaching lessons at the OYC, he was an active member, helping to organize races, serving as Commodore of the fleet, and striving to lead the pack.

Don was an active member of the Sacred Heart Church in Eldon, MO, putting in countless hours of service during his nearly 40 years as a member. He was instrumental in the renovation design plan for the Rectory ensuring functionality and versatility of the space.

In addition to his wife, Kathy Ressel, survivors include Genevieve Ressel of Lenexa, KS; James, Amanda, and Alexander Ressel of St. Joseph, IL; Kelly, John, Jacob, Jordan, and Sam Ginther of Egan, MN; Mary, Danny, Grace, Cole, Kolby, and Khloe Brown of Oak Grove, MO; Theresa Reynolds of Eldon, MO; Paul Ressel of Four Oaks, NC; and Fred Ressel of St. Charles, MO.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Ralph, Charles, and Wallace Ressel, and his first wife of 37 years, Barbara (Gower) Ressel.

The family will receive friends and extended family from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday, March 7, 2020, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 540 N. Mill St., Eldon, MO, with the funeral mass starting at 11 a.m. After full military burial honors at the cemetery, lunch will be served at the parish center.

Memorial contributions can be made to Sacred Heart Church or the charity of your choice.

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