Donald Lee Kalahar, 77, of Woodlawn, Illinois, passed away at 5:35 pm January 7, 2021 at SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mount Vernon, Illinois. He was born January 10, 1943 in Huron, South Dakota to the late  Marion and Veronica (Doherty) Kalahar. Donald married Beverly (Moeller) Kalahar on February 14, 1977 in Boonville, Indiana. They were blessed with nearly 44 years of marriage.

In addition to his beloved wife, Donald is survived by his children, John Kalahar of Bonnie, Illinois, Lynn Rainey of Pacific, Missouri, Julie Kalahar of Watertown, South Dakota; and Jody Kalahar and husband, Casey Mapes of Yakutat, Alaska; grandchildren, Cody, Zoe, Hunter, Mason, Mahala, and Hailley; great-granddaughter, Shelby; brothers, Jim Kalahar and wife, Veda of Omaha, Nebraska and Mike Kalahar and wife, Judy of Huron, South Dakota; sister-in-law, Vicky Kalahar; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Donald was preceded in death by his brother, Tim Kalahar; sister, Jeanine; and an infant brother.

Donald proudly served his country for the United States Military during the Vietnam War, where he was award two purple hearts and a bronze star. He was a member the VFW, American Legion, AMVETS, the National Turkey Wildlife Federation, and was the past president of Ducks Unlimited. Donald loved being outdoors and especially enjoyed hunting and fishing, but most of all, he loved the time he shared with his family. Donald was dearly loved and will be missed.A private service will be held at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in Saint Louis, Missouri. Inurnment will follow. Memorials may be made in Donald’s honor to the Purple Heart Foundation or Ducks Unlimited.Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.