Donald McKuin

Donald Gene McKuin of Poplar Bluff died Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024, at the age of 92.

Born to Joseph A. and Myrtle (nee Brents) McKuin March 10, 1932, in Morrilton, Ark, his family moved to Fisk, Missouri, when he was 2 years old. He attended school in Fisk and was the youngest of eight children, all having preceded him in death. Married to Wilma L (nee Atnip) McKuin Nov. 25, 1951, they moved to England where he served as a Sargent in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He also served with the Missouri National Guard. Upon separating from the armed forces, the couple moved to Houston, Texas where he was self-employed in a successful electrical contracting firm. He and Wilma retired back to Poplar Bluff in 1985.

Don became a pilot in Houston and enjoyed recreational flying. He later built his own Ultra-light and flew out of the Fisk area. As a licensed Ham radio operator, he became an active member of both the Houston and later, Poplar Bluff groups until his hearing failed due to injuries received during his time in the service. He also enjoyed restoring his 1931 Model A and was thrilled when it won several competitions around the area.

In Houston, he was a member of Richmond Plaza Baptist Church. He joined the First Baptist Church of Poplar Bluff where he actively served as a deacon, on several committees and men’s groups for 36 years. Until his health failed, he rarely missed a men’s prayer breakfast.

Don enjoyed building projects and used these talents to help his family and others. He loved his family and would often be found hosting family gatherings and playing games with them.

Don was preceded in death by his wife, Wilma in 2022 and his son, Donald McKuin, Jr of Houston, Texas in 2014. He is survived by his daughter, Nancy Letbetter of Wentzville, Missouri; his grandson, Daniel Letbetter and wife, Amanda of St. Peters, Missouri with their three children: Mason (9), Logan (5) and Harlow (1).

Visitation will begin at 11:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral Chapel with the funeral service following at 12:30 a.m. The Rev. Brandon Spain will officiate. Burial will be at Ash Hill Cemetery following the service.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of Donald Gene McKuin.

Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com.