[ back ]
LYBARGER DONEL C.
DONEL C. LYBARGER
Donel C. Lybarger, age 88, passed away October 18, 2010, after a lingering illness. He is survived by his wife, Patricia; sons, Donel Jr. of Chagrin Falls, Timothy (Linda) of Vermont; and daughters, Linda Joseph (Ron), and Susan Ford (Bob) both of Chagrin Falls; three grandchildren, and sister Jeanne McGinnis.
Don graduated from University School in 1941. He then served three years in the Army in World War II. Don played the guitar and at times entertained his fellow troops. His interest in home construction lead to ownership of Lybarger Lumber Co. (Bedford and Cleveland), and homebuilding in Shaker Hts. and Chagrin Falls. In addition, Don owned and operated two restaurants (Shaker Steak House and The Coach House). Don and his family moved to Florida in 1957 where he managed Pompano Beach Marina to pursue his lifelong love of boating. He owned boats and enjoyed outings on both Lake Erie and in Florida over the course of his life. After one year the family returned to Bainbridge. Being a man of vision, he anticipated the growth and future possibilities in the Chagrin Valley. In 1967 he purchased a century home, located on farmland in Bainbridge. The Chagrin Valley Racquet Club was designed, built, and run as a family endeavor. Several years later he purchased the Hillbrook Club in Hunting Valley. He owned and managed both clubs for many years. Music was a lifelong passion of Don's. He studied his guitar as a young man and played at both restaurants he owned. Friday nights were music nights at the Chagrin Valley Racquet Club (known today as Chagrin Valley Athletic Club). Other members brought their instruments and played with Don for the entertainment of all members. His friends will long remember the sing-a-longs. Don invested in property in South Florida where he owned and operated a small apartment complex (Hillbrook South) on the intercoastal waterway in Ft. Lauderdale. As a lifelong animal lover, he rescued and gave homes to several strays over the years. He lived his later years among friends in the sunny south.
Stroud-Lawrence Funeral Home of Chagrin Falls will handle private family services. Don was known, entertained, and loved by many friends in the Chagrin Valley. The family would very much enjoy hearing their special memories of him. Stories and memories can be sent to Stroud-Lawrence or directly to family members. Donations in Don Lybarger's name may be made to Geauga Humane Society's Rescue Village of Chagrin Falls, Ohio or Pet Pals of University Hospitals of Cleveland, Ohio.
[ back ]
