Donald Wayne Appelgate, born on June 20, 1938, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2022 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Oskaloosa, Iowa to Donald and Alice Appelgate. Upon graduating high school, Donald Appelgate joined the U.S Navy. He served his country for four years and met the love of his life, Mary Jackson-Appelgate, not long after. They later moved to Tuscaloosa where Donald Appelgate would go on to earn his Bachelor's degree in science at the University of Alabama. He worked for Union Oil company as a Certified Professional Landsman. Following his retirement, he and his wife traveled to 35 countries from Rome to Norway. In later years, he enjoyed their grandchildren and watching them grow up. Don was an active member in civic organizations and charity work. He was on the board of the JC's, optimist club, and Kiwanis. He was also a member of a mystic society for 25 years. He volunteered at Christ United Methodist Church's Life Gate Ministry and was a long standing member. He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Mary Appelgate. He is survived by his daughter Lesa Appelgate -Carpenter and her husband, Allan Carpenter; his sister, Diana Shadduck; four grandchildren, Shelby Carpenter, Haley Carpenter, Blake Carpenter, Jacob Carpenter; and 3 nephews, Chris Parks, Michael Parks, and Christopher Shadduck. To all who knew him, he was affectionately known as Mr. Don. To his family, he was their beloved Rah-Rah! Offerings of love would be appreciated at the Christ United Methodist Church Life Gates Ministries
June 20, 1938 ~ October 10, 2022 (age 84)
Services will be held at Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home Monday, October 17, 2022. Visitation will commence at 11:00am until the time of service. Interment will follow at Mobile Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
