Donald E. Stickel, 87, of Springfield, IL, passed away on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at St. John’s Hospital. He was born on December 10, 1938, in Springfield, the son of Charles E. and Eula (Young) Stickel. He married Doris “Joann” Wiker on December 27, 1959, and she survives.
In addition to his wife Joann, Donald is survived by two daughters, Donna Hopwood (fiancé Kenneth Meents), and Diane Silveri both of Springfield; six grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; one sister, Jeanette Mattsson of Springfield; and one brother, Terry Stickel of Texas. Several nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, James Stickel. Also, several dogs and cats that he had throughout the years that he cared for and loved.
Donald started his career as an apprentice lineman, with Cilco, and later retired as a “Trouble Shooter” lineman with City, Water, Light, and Power after more than thirty years of service.
In his family’s eyes, Donald was the best husband, dad and grandpa (Pa Pa) in the entire world, and feel that God specifically “Hand Picked” him out to Bless his family. He was a man of integrity, honesty, and stellar work ethics. He put other people’s needs before his own, without a second thought, but never once boasted about his generosity. This was his character. “Well done, Good and Faithful Servant”.
In his free time, Donald enjoyed fishing. He especially enjoyed watching NASCAR and was an avid fan of the late Dale Earnhardt and the late Kyle Busch. Donald gave the gift of life to his community by donating almost seven gallons of blood throughout his life to help others.
He loved the Lord and was a member of The Springfield Seventh Day Adventist Church and attended West Side Christian Church, in Springfield.
Visitation: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM, Monday, July 20, 2026, at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield.
Funeral Service: 11:30 AM, Monday, July 20, 2026, at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield with Pastor Gary Wilkleman officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Protective League or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
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