Donald Lee Teghtmyer (or more affectionately known as "Don," "Teck," "Dad," "Papa," and "Great Papa", passed away peacefully at the age of 91, on Sunday morning, April 24, 2022, at his home in Springfield, Missouri.

Born June 26, 1930 to Claude and Floy (Newby) Teghtmyer of Topeka, Kansas. Don, the only child, continued a family legacy of hard work, honest living, and ingenuity.

At the age of 11, Don won the International Soap Box Derby, being the youngest boy in the competition to build and race his own Derby Racer. Near the same age, his father drove them an hour-and-a-half away from their home in Ottawa and paid $5 to a traveling aviator for Don's first airplane ride—a flight around a cow pasture. Though Don's thrill nearly scared his mother to death, his dedicated interest in aviation came to life.

In 1950, Don graduated from Wentworth Military Academy, in Lexington, Missouri, where he admittedly enjoyed basketball, football, and swimming more than scholastics. On October 28, 1953, Don married the love of his life, Bonnie Ann Birt, also of Topeka, Kansas. He attended Kansas State College and belonged to the Kappa Sigma fraternity, prior to joining the United States Air Force.

As a USAF pilot, Don flew T-6 and F-89 jets to name a few, finishing his career as a fighter pilot with the 66th Fighter Interceptor Squadron. After the USAF, he went straight to work with International Business Machines (IBM) in St. Louis, finally moving to Springfield, Missouri, in 1957, to help run the family business.

For many decades, Don ran Steno-Craft, Inc., supplying business machines and office equipment—later, telephone equipment and systems. Don officially retired at the age of 82, though he never actually stopped working.

Don enjoyed bowling, fishing, and golf, plus handball and racquetball. He was an avid fan and supporter of Missouri State University Lady Bears basketball and Bears football. Along with tinkering, he collected gadgets and the latest technologies.

He served in many different Leadership positions through the years in these different organizations as a Freemason, Don served in the director's staff of the Abou Ben Adhem Shrine; he belonged to the Springfield Rod & Gun Club; and he was active in the Springfield Elks Lodge #409.

Even throughout his final days, Don demonstrated razor-sharp memory and a standout sense of humor. His big, bright smile will remain unforgettable.

Don was predeceased by his wife, Bonnie Ann Teghtmyer, who passed away in November 1992.

Survivors include Don's children, Daniel Leven Teghtmyer and Lee Ann Hunter (husband, Michael); his grandchildren, Nicole Teghtmyer, Carl Teghtmyer, and Weston Hunter (wife, Ashley); and his great-grandchildren, Charlie Teghtmyer and Harper Jo Hunter. Don also leaves behind many good friends and dear neighbors.

A celebration of Don's wonderful life will take place with a Veteran's Honor Ceremony on June 27 ^th at 12pm (Noon) at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery 5201 S. Southwood, Springfield, Mo 65804; In lieu of flowers, please make donations to your favorite charities in Don's memory—some of Don's favorites included Alzheimer's research , Elks Lodge #409 Scholarships , and the Shriners Hospital . Online condolences can be made at www.gormanscharpf.com .