Dennis James Donaldson

Dennis James Donaldson passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026, at the age of 95.

Born on July 2, 1930, in Sumner, Iowa, Dennis was the eldest of four children born to William James Donaldson and Valesca H. (Bathke) Donaldson. He was a man of strong faith, deep devotion to family, and a lifelong curiosity that led him to master countless skills and hobbies throughout his life.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife of 45 years, Mary Jo (Simpkins) Donaldson; his infant son, Dwayne Donaldson; his sister, Joy Fran Walker; and his grandson, James Dean Sheppard.

He leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory, including his children, David James Donaldson (Tammy), Daniel Jay Donaldson (Susan), DeLaine Margaret Cribb (John), Carol Ann Griffin, and Glanton Leon Pyle. He is also survived by his brother, Roger Leo Donaldson (Donna), and his sister, Kay Arlene Clark.

Dennis was a proud grandfather to Daniel J. Donaldson II (Liz), Jason Donaldson, Dennis Gooding (Megan), and Heather Corrine Ellis (Dillon). He was blessed with great-grandchildren Anderson Gooding, Xander Donaldson, and Rory Ellis, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Dennis and Mary Jo spent many happy years in Palm Springs, Florida, where they were active members of their community and Holy Cross Lutheran Church, forming lifelong friendships.

Dennis enjoyed a long and successful career with IBM, beginning with the repair of manual typewriters and growing alongside the technological advances of his era. Curious and mechanically gifted, he continually expanded his skills, eventually specializing in electronics and retiring as a Senior Engineer after several decades with the company. Following retirement in 1989, he and Mary Jo settled in Live Oak, Florida, where they enjoyed life on their beautiful property near the Suwannee River.

A man of service and fellowship, Dennis was a proud member of the Masonic fraternity and faithfully served as a Mason for many years. He was also affiliated with the Scottish Rite, Shriners, and the Order of the Eastern Star. Through these organizations, he enjoyed fellowship, supported charitable causes, and contributed to his community. Dennis especially enjoyed participating with the Shriners marching unit. His Christian faith remained an important foundation throughout his life. In later years, he worshipped with the Episcopal congregation in Live Oak.

Dennis was blessed with many talents and interests. He loved gardening and could often be found in his barn, happily tinkering with tractors, machinery, and electronics. He had a keen eye for treasures at yard sales and took great pleasure in restoring antique clocks to working order. A gifted auctioneer in Palm Beach County, Dennis enjoyed the excitement of a good auction and never lost his appreciation for finding a bargain. Whether working with his hands, sharing stories with friends, or helping others solve a problem, he brought enthusiasm, ingenuity, and good humor to everything he did.

More than anything, Dennis will be remembered for his love of family, his steadfast faith, his willingness to lend a helping hand, and the joy he found in life’s simple pleasures. His legacy lives on in the lives of those he loved and the many people who were fortunate enough to know him.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Dennis Donaldson's memory to Shriners Children's, Corporate Headquarters, 2900 N. Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.