Donald J. Kwolek 1932-2026

Don was born on Dec. 7, 1932, to the late Stephen and Esther “Anna” Ippolito Kwolek, in Wampum, Pa., where he grew up and graduated from Wampum High School before being drafted into the U.S. Army in 1953.

Don was assigned to the 8th Field Artillery, 25th Hawaiian Division, where he served as Chief of Section in Korea. After his tour of duty in Korea, he was sent to Hawaii to complete his assignment. Upon discharge, he returned to Wampum, married his childhood sweetheart, Thelma “Jane” Davis, and raised their family.

He was employed with Babcock & Wilcox for more than 40 years and held numerous positions.

In 2002, Don and Thelma relocated to Canfield to be closer to family. He loved fishing and hunting with his uncles, building and creating in his wood shop, and gardening (he was known for his green thumb), but most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family. Don was proud to be part of Wampum’s sports history, playing on both the high school basketball and baseball teams.

In Canfield, he was active with Canfield United Methodist Church and the Canfield Lions Club. He loved to tell “big fish” stories from his childhood in Wampum. Don’s kind and caring spirit will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 69 years, Jane Kwolek; and his parents.

Don is survived by his children, Beth (Dan) Vanoli and John (Lynn) Kwolek; grandchildren, Ross Vanoli, Nick (Elizabeth) Kwolek and Aaron (Parey) Kwolek; great-grandchildren, Luca and Rowan Vanoli, and Christian and Grayson Kwolek; brother, Bill Kwolek; and nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

A graveside service is pending for autumn and will be held at Slippery Rock Presbyterian Church Cemetery, 258 Slippery Rock Drive, Ellwood City, PA 16117.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made, in memory of Don, to Canfield Lions Club, P.O. Box 103, Canfield, OH 44406.

His family would like to thank the staff at Bethany Village for the exceptional care they provided to Don over the last several years.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.routsong.com.

(special notice)