Donald Ray Cottrell

Donald Ray Cottrell was born September 28, 1950 and passed on March 30, 2024 at St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis with his beloved wife and son at his bedside.

 Donald is preceded in death by his parents Paul and Lois Cottrell, his sister Paula Mae Cottrell, and step-grandfather Burnie Frederick.

He is survived by his loving wife, Diana Kay Cottrell of 51 years, his son Donald Paul (Carley) Cottrell, daughter Paula (Jason) Mayfield, and his grandchildren Austin, Prestyn, Landyn, Alexia, and Graidey.

Donald was born in Terre Haute and graduated from Garfield High School in 1970. While attending Garfield High School he won many awards for his singing skills.  Don was a special needs bus driver for the Vigo County School Corporation for 40 years. He always had a special place in his heart for the kids he drove, and they were always excited to see him. He had many funny stories that he enjoyed sharing. Don was a big man with an even bigger heart. He enjoyed gardening, cooking shows, listening to music, and going out to eat with good friends. His favorite food was fried chicken, and he thoroughly enjoyed Christmas and all the traditions that surrounded it. His grandkids had his heart and he loved watching them grow, even trying to keep up with them. Don was a special kind of fun and would make people laugh wherever he went. He will be greatly missed by many and his stories of life are sure to continue on.

Services for Donald Ray will be held Thursday, April 4 at Samaritan Funeral Home located at 2425 Wabash Ave in Terre Haute from 4 pm to 7 pm with dinner for all following at 12 E Gateway Dr. Terre Haute, 47802.

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