Donald E. Siewing

Siewing, Donald E. left this life and entered into rest on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at the age of 80. Beloved husband for 54 years to Patty Siewing (née Patterson), beloved father of Donald Christopher (Tara) Siewing, Gene Patrick (Silvia) Siewing, loving grandfather “PaPa” to Luke Christopher and Sydney Renae, loving brother to Beverly Jean Siewing, dear friend to Jeffrey Hunter Becker, nephew, cousin, and friend to many. Don is preceded in death by his parents Eugene Louis and Elizabeth Augusta (née Maré) Siewing.

Don was born in St. Louis, MO and graduated from Southwest High School. Upon graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served on the aircraft carrier the U.S.S. Wasp (CVS-18) from January 31, 1962 to May 27, 1966. The USS Wasp played a significant role in the manned space program, and she served as the recovery vessel for five Project Gemini missions. Don was part of the crew that picked up Gemini III and Gemini IV and operated the crane that lifted the spacecraft onto the aircraft carrier. He was also part of the aircraft flight deck crew. After his discharge from the Navy Don worked for AT&T as a cable repairman and retired after 30+ years of service.

Don enjoyed fishing, hunting, woodworking, and spending time with his friends and family at Pomme de Terre lake. He loved Chris’ barbecue, Tara’s guacamole, and having a marguerita or two. He always looked forward to his Sunday afternoon phone calls with Gene and Silvia who live in Germany. He was VERY PROUD and LOVED spending time with Luke and Sydney as well as Paul, Rosie, and Phoebe. Some of Don’s favorite memories: scout/camping trips with his sons and scouting friends, fishing at Pomme de Terre with his special friends Denny and Linda, weekly coffee/breakfast meetings with his buddy Rich, sitting in his garage and visiting with his neighbor Jerry and family gatherings with Bev and Hunter. He was an incredibly positive man that dealt with his COPD and lung cancer courageously and inspired all of us. He was a jokester and always made us laugh.

Interment will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Chris and Tara’s home from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 22nd. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the American Lung Association or charity of your choosing. Don’s family wants to thank the wonderful staff of St. Luke’s Hospital and St. Luke’s Hospice and their friends at St. Philip’s United Church of Christ for their prayers, support, and kindness.