Don Laven

Donald John Laven, 88, of Springfield, passed away on Friday, May 15, 2026, at home surrounded by his loving family.

Don was born in Mankato, Minnesota on June 4, 1937, to Robert and Edna Laven. He graduated from Patrick Henry High School and the University of Minnesota. On June 15, 1957, he married his high school sweetheart Audrey Schuppel.

Immediately after college he entered the U.S. Air Force. His duties took him from Minnesota to Texas, California, Hawaii, Maryland, and Saudi Arabia, and his skill and dedication to flying earned him a place as a pilot on Air Force One. After 20 years in the Air Force, he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel, and went to work as a corporate pilot for the W.R. Grace Company for the next 17 years. During his corporate pilot years he lived in Connecticut and Florida, where he finally retired.

In his retirement he enjoyed playing and watching golf, and rooting for the Minnesota Twins, Miami Marlins, and St. Louis Cardinals. Ever the pilot, any time a child or grandchild was taking a flight, he loved to track their progress on his many flight apps, noting any weather they may be encountering, what runway they were landing on, and what gate they were taxiing to.

He is survived by his wife Audrey Laven; his children Mark Laven (Janice), Diana Maas (Richard), Michael Laven (Melody); his brother Bob Laven; his grandchildren Amy Maas, David Maas (Audrey), Jonathan Laven, Julie Laven (Eduardo), Laurence Tungol, Samuel Tungol; and a great-grandchild, Dahlia Maas, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents Robert Laven and Edna Laven (nee Tabatt), and a brother Jerome Laven.

Graveside service with full military honors will be held, Thursday, June 4, 2026 at 11:00 AM in Missouri Veterans Cemetery, 5201 South Southwood Road, Springfield, MO 65804.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Seasons Hospice of Springfield in Donald's honor.