Donald E. Baughman

Donald E. Baughman

DOVER – Donald E. Baughman, 87, entered into rest at 11:42 p.m. on Friday, June 2, 2023 at UPMC Memorial. He was the loving husband of the late Beverly J. (Garrett) Baughman. They were married 66 years.

Born September 5, 1935 in Dover, in the same house he lived all his life, Donald was a son of the late Nelson M. and C. Edna (Gerber) Baughman.

He graduated from Dover High School in 1953 and was a U.S. Army veteran where he honed his innate mechanical skills as a tank mechanic. After a brief career as an auto mechanic, he returned to join his family business. Donald had nearly 70 years of service with Baughman Memorial Works in Dover, which was founded in 1875 by his great-grandfather. He was fourth generation owner and president and had an unrivalled work ethic. Don was both a compassionate listener as his customers shared stories of their loved ones, and a skilled craftsman who took pride in designing lasting tributes to honor them. Don especially loved passing his deep knowledge of the business along to his oldest daughter who will continue his legacy.

Although immersed in the family business, he always put family first as a loyal son, devoted husband, flawless father, doting grandfather, steadfast brother (and brother-in-law), and beloved uncle. He was the best “girl dad” ever, rolling with the punches and diffusing any conflict with a masterfully-timed joke, never by raising his voice. His daughters’ friends found solace and comfort in his home and adopted him as a father of their own.

Don’s quick wit and gentle spirit made others feel instantly at ease. He was a patient, encouraging, unassuming person, serving as a mentor and role model without even realizing it. In everyday conversations, he could help others see things from a new perspective, offering hope and affirmation that life could be good. He had a love for music, a soft spot for animals, and a deep faith in his Lord.

In March of 2022, Don sustained a serious brain injury was very close to death. By the grace of God, and with his amazing will and determination, he rallied to spend a “bonus” year on earth. He used it by continuing to spread kindness and to impact others, including all those who cared for him. He formed an extraordinary bond with his caregivers from Visiting Angels, Nate and Mary. He truly enjoyed each day he was given.

Donald was a member of Zion U.M. Church in York where he sang with Masters Men and the church choir. Over the years, he was a member of the Pennsylvania State Monument Builders Association Board of Directors; Dover Lions Club; Dover Jaycees; and the Viking Athletic Association.

Donald is survived by his three daughters, Sharon K. Witmer and husband, Warren of Dover, Sandra L. King, wife of the late Barry, of York and Suzanne M. Becker and husband, Scott of York; five grandchildren, Rachel Witmer, Matthew (Lynn) Witmer, Carrie (Joel) Becker, Benjamin Becker and Hunter King; six great grandchildren, Gabriel, Michael, Samuel and Grace Witmer, Charlotte and Vivian Becker; a brother, Dr. Glenn L. Baughman, husband of the late Madeline, of Akron, OH; a sister, Janet R. Kimmel Repasch, wife of the late Edward Kimmel and the late Joseph Repasch, of Lebanon; and his beloved cat, Aslan.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Donald’s funeral at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 9, 2023 at Zion U.M. Church, 1030 Carlisle Rd., York. There will be viewings from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at Emig Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Inc., 47 N. Queen St., Dover and from 10 to 11 a.m. on Friday at the church. Burial will follow in Salem Union Cemetery, Dover, where veteran’s honors will be presented by the York County Veterans Honor Guard.  Officiating will be the Rev. Joshua Rhone.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Zion U.M. Church, 1030 Carlisle Rd., York, PA 17404; or Pappus House, 253 Cherry St., York, PA 17402.

To share memories of Donald and condolences with his family, please visit www.emigfuneralhome.com.

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