Donald Baumgartner - Obituary

n Loving Memory of Donald John Baumgartner April 20, 1947 – December 7, 2024 Donald John Baumgartner, lovingly known as "Don," "Donnie," or "Van Man," passed away on December 7, 2024, “a day that will live in infamy,” at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. Born on April 20, 1947, in Washington, D.C., Don lived a life full of love, adventure, and generosity. Don was a ‘66 graduate of Oxon Hill High School in Maryland. Following graduation, he served his country with distinction in the U.S. Air Force. Entering service on June 30, 1966, Don worked as an aircraft mechanic for B-52 bombers, achieving the rank of Sergeant (E-4) before his honorable discharge on April 30, 1970. Don’s career spanned decades as he sometimes worked for Shlagel Farms, served over 40 years as a Foreman at Potomac Electric Power Company (PEPCO), and worked at the same company as his son manufacturing electronics at First Source Electronics (FSE). Don also had his own company, Viking Amusements, buying, selling, and repairing pinball machines, arcade machines, and slot machines. He was an exceptional mechanical engineer (self-taught) and a true renaissance man whose skills ranged from clockmaking to gunsmithing. Don was deeply passionate about life and pursued hobbies that included tennis and golf with his buddies the “Dirty Dozen”, motorcycles, martial arts (earning a blue belt in Taekwondo), pinball machines, slot machines, clocks and wine making. He had a love for all animals, especially cats, and cherished family traditions such as beach trips to the Outer Banks, corn boils, crab feasts, and holiday get-togethers. He spent many cherished hours watching his grandchildren’s sporting events or teaching them one of his many trades, passing on his knowledge and experience. A devoted family man, Don leaves behind his beloved wife of 48 years, Monica, and his children: Marisa, Jessica, and Trevor. He was the proud grandfather of Jaymi, Amber, Mandi, Cody, Hayden, and Max, and the cherished great-grandfather of Kameron and Aiyana. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Mary, and his siblings, Joan and Ramon. Don’s vibrant personality, kindness, and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was a proud member of the NRA, VFW, American Legion, Elks (BPOE), and other organizations. His Catholic faith, strong sense of tradition, and love for his family defined his legacy. Friends and family are invited to celebrate Don’s life at the following services: ● Viewing: Friday, December 13, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Kalas Funeral Home, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD. ● Funeral Mass: Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 10:30 AM at St. Ignatius Church, 2315 Brinkley Road, Oxon Hill, MD. ● Burial: Following the Mass at Resurrection Cemetery, 8000 Woodyard Road, Clinton, MD. ● Repast/Celebration of Life: Following the Burial at Pirates Cove; 4817 Riverside Dr. Galesville, MD. If you would like to make a charitable contribution, in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to causes Don deeply cared about: ● Corolla Wild Horse Fund: www.corollawildhorses.com/tributes ● Gary Sinise Foundation: www.garysinisefoundation.org/donate ● Rude Ranch Animal Rescue: www.ruderanch.org/how-to-help/donate Don’s charismatic presence was felt by any who spent even a few minutes with him. In remembrance, if you would like to share any stories or memories of Don to be shared with the family, you can do so at the link below. Additionally, you can share photos and videos. ● Google Form: https://forms.gle/apNnuiunfSxNvA4JA The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Arundel Volunteer Fire Department, Anne Arundel Medical Center Emergency Room, Johns Hopkins Lifeline, and the Neuro Critical Care Unit at Johns Hopkins Hospital for their exceptional care of Don. Special thanks also to St. Ignatius Church, Kalas Funeral Home, and Resurrection Cemetery for their unwavering support during this time. Don Baumgartner’s laughter, warmth, and zest for life will be deeply missed but forever cherished by all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and joy that will continue to inspire his family and friends.