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Ferguson, Don A.
DON A. FERGUSON
Don A. Ferguson age 69, of South Russell, passed away at home on July 26, 2008. He had been diagnosed with Mantle Cell Lymphoma eight years prior and fought it tenaciously, choosing to live life to the fullest every step of the way.
Along with Don's positive outlook and resolve, he had a great team of doctors over the years that helped him get over many of the medical hurdles he encountered. It was his doctors that were tasked to keep things in check until the next new treatment became available. For the better part of eight years, through Don's faith, inner strength, humor, family and doctors, he responded positively to each new treatment. In the end it was not Don's inner strength or will to go on that faded like a flare, but his body, from the years of treatments he so bravely endured.
He was loving husband of 47 years to Mary (Litzel), beloved father to Jeff (Leigh Ann) and Megan (Todd) Allen, adored grandfather to Maddie Ferguson and Emma Allen, dear brother of Charles (Barb) Ferguson of Perrysburg, Ohio, and nephew to Virginia (Tappe) Hassler. He was preceded in death by his parents Calvin and Esther Ferguson, brother Ora Ferguson, and grandson Tyler Allen.
Don received his undergraduate degree from Hiram College and his Masters from Case Western. Don and wife Mary settled in Chagrin and then South Russell, where they have resided for the past 43 years. He spent his entire 31 year professional career working for Chagrin Falls Schools, having had many roles, including 5th grade Science teacher, Middle School Assistant Principal, Director of Special Education and Technology, teaching OWE and assisting with the development of the Peer Care program.
When Don wasn't working he was either at or talking about the family cottage on Middle Bass Island. Don was the 3rd generation of his family to have raised their children during the summer months on the island, spending countless hours creating family memories together there. Middle Bass Island was and continues to be, the common thread that binds the Ferguson family together.
After retiring in 1990, Don spent his time doing things he loved, building a new cottage on Middle Bass, boating, fishing for walleye and perch, planning and tending to the family garden, antiquing and woodworking.
A private family service was held at Crown Hill Cemetery in Twinsburg on Friday August 8, 2008. The family suggests memorial donations be made to The Hospice of the Western Reserve, 300 East 185th St., Cleveland, OH 44119 or the Leukemia / Lymphoma Society, Donor Services, P.O. Box 4072, Pittsfield, MA 01202.
Arrangements by: Charles R. Blessing Funeral Home, Twinsburg, Ohio.
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