Don Alday's 6-year battle with ALS ended Monday, March 23, 2015. Don was born Dec. 19, 1948, in Springfield, Mo. He spent his early years in Lamar, Mo., where he had many fond memories. He graduated from Glendale High School in Springfield and earned an engineering degree from the University of Missouri, Rolla, where he was a member of the Kappa Alpha fraternity. Don worked for 28 years for Paul Mueller and prior years for Rose Metal Products and Fasco. Don was preceded in death by his mother, Ruth Alday. He is survived by his wife, Jennifer Ailor, Ozark; his father, Carl Alday, Springfield; brothers, Dale (Mary), Springfield and Dennis (Becky), Rogersville; sister, DeAnn Evans (Don), Nixa; 11 nieces and nephews, many cousins, aunts, uncles, and many friends who gave their time, friendship and love. Don loved dogs, and his current pack, Eclipse, Mickey, Gonzo, Sammy and Max, gave him countless hours of amusement and companionship. Those that went before him included Mokey, Bear, Buddy, Jugdish, Chelsea, Hounders, Molly and Maggie. He was president of a Christian County animal shelter organization and supported Route 66 Rescue. Don loved nature and was involved in environmental issues. He enjoyed hiking and running and ran in the Dallas White Rock Marathon. His passion for music knew no limits, including blues, jazz, classical, rock, bluegrass, country and gospel. England was one of his favorite places to visit. He also enjoyed good wines, great beers, movies and books. A celebration of Don's life will be held Tuesday, March 31, 2015, from 4 to 6 pm in Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Route 66 Animal Rescue, Inc., P.O. Box 335, Nixa, MO 65714-0335; The Keith Worthington Chapter of ALS, Ozark; or Mercy Hospice.