Monday, July 15, 2024

Don Hole


(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Donald David Hole, simply known as "Don" to those who knew him, was born on May 1, 1937 in Carthage, MO, and passed away on July 13, 2024 at Solace House in Joplin. He spent his 87 years deeply rooted in his home state, becoming a beloved figure in his community. 

Don's life was shaped by his enduring resilience, determination, and a heart that was as expansive as the open roads he devoted his professional life to understanding. As Charles Dickens once said, "A loving heart is the truest wisdom," and Don embodied this wisdom throughout his life.






Don found his calling as a Traffic Studies Engineer with the Missouri Department of Transportation, where he worked tirelessly until his retirement in 1996. His dedication to his work was second only to his love for his family. He was immensely supportive of his kids, attending their games, coaching their teams, and being a reliable father figure in every way. He was married to his former wife Betty Hole until her death in September of 2000. 

He used to enjoy fishing with his brother Royce until his death. 

Married to his beloved wife, Margaret, since July 9, 2004, he built a life based on love, understanding, and mutual respect. As a father to his children, he imparted the values of hard work, integrity, and compassion. While he was a man of firm resolve and strong character, he was also notably tenderhearted, especially when it came to his family.

He extended this love to his community as well, serving as the former mayor of Neck City, where he worked diligently to improve the lives of his constituents. He proudly served in the Missouri National Guard from 1956-1967. He had been a member of the New Providence Baptist Church for over 10 years, being baptized in the church as well.


Despite his passing, the legacy of Don Hole will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He is survived by his wife Margaret Hole of Neck City; children Joel Hole (Susan) of Springfield, John Hole of Harrah, OK, and Donalda Crane of Tuttle, OK; grandchildren Janissa Morgan (Tommy), Brittany Gerhart (Matt), Keith, Emily and Allena Crane, Cameron Hole (Ashlen), and Madison Turner (Trent); seven great grandchildren and several other extended family members, including his good buddy Oscar the dog.

He is also remembered by those who preceded him in death, his parents Everett and Imogene Hole; brothers Dean Hole, James "Gene" Hole, Royce "Raymond" Hole. His life and memory will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, starting with a visitation at 9:30 am at the New Providence Baptist Church in Oronogo, Missouri, followed by a funeral service at 10:00 am with Bro. Larry Shoemaker officiating. The service will conclude with a graveside committal at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Webb City. Those honoring Don's life by serving as casket bearers will be Keith Crane, Nate Hole, Cameron Hole, Hudson Hole, Lincoln Hole and Lane Humphreys.








In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "It is not length of life, but depth of life." Donald's life, though not without its hardships, was rich in depth, filled with love, purpose, and a commitment to serving others. His journey may have ended, but his spirit and the memories he created continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate to have known him.

The family encourages all who knew Donald to share their memories and photos on his memorial page at www.simpsonfh.com. Services are under the direction of Simpson Funeral Home. Let us gather there to celebrate the remarkable life that Donald led and the indelible impact he left on us all.

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