Donald Joseph Creely's Obituary
Donald "Don" Joseph Creely was born on September 9, 1931, in St. Louis, Missouri to Ruth and Joe Creely. He had one brother, Robert Creely who passed away at the young age of 30.
Don grew up and lived In St. Louis, Missouri while going to school and helping his parents at their Dry-Cleaning Shop that they owned. He graduated from Maplewood High School and at the tender age of 19, he enlisted in the Navy. He set out on the USS Monongahela on January 23, 1951, and as he said sailed the world. He was on an oiler that refueled other ships so as he said they traveled the world. Don went back and forth through the Panama Canal, visiting many countries. He was honorably discharged December 21, 1954.
Don came back to St. Louis and attended a vo-tech and had other pursuits in St. Louis. Namely Jeanette Busse who he knew from high school and mutual friends. They were married on June 9, 1956, and spent many beautiful years together until Jeanette passed away on April 1, 2021. Don and Jeanette were blessed with two daughters: Lynn, who was born on December 1, 1957, and Karen, born on September 22, 1961.
Don began working at Haenal Meat in St. Louis Missouri and was soon transferred and in charge of the plant in Joplin, Missouri in 1968.In 1979 he pursued other job opportunities in Tulsa Oklahoma and remained in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was a serious person of little words but when he did speak you listened with intent because he always had a good point to make giving a lot of useful advice on money management. His passion was new cars to buy every few years with or without permission from Jeanette. He also loved old cars. He would faithfully be scrubbing and shining the cars in the driveway every Saturday morning. The car dealerships would love to see him coming because his cars always looked brand new when he went to trade them in.
Don and Jeanette began a whirlwind of travel after his retirement. Among many other trips they went on 30 cruises which was his favorite. Dad loved the "dress up" night when they had to be dressed in tuxedos. He prided himself on his appearance and always looked so sharp.
Don is survived by his two daughters: Lynn Archibald and husband Bob, and Karen Rodden and husband Steve. He leaves to cherish his memory his 6 grandchildren: Matt and Emily Archibald, Mark and Audrey Archibald, Jodi and Chris Sherwood, Amy and Shane Jones, Layne and Elijah Lavicky, Scott, and Sarah Rodden. Additionally, he is also survived by his 10 great grandchildren: Ellie and Kalie Archibald, Paisley, Payton, Parker Sherwood, Kinsleigh Wiedel, Tate and Hadleigh Jones, Callan Lavicky, and Elliot Rodden.
Don passed away peacefully in his sleep on the evening of his birthday on September 9, 2024. He had a fulfilling life of 93 years and will be truly missed.
No matter what was going on with him, when you entered the room to visit, his first question was always: "How is everyone in the family doing?" He loved his family, and we loved him. Don will be forever missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
There will be a private family service only.
We welcome you to share your condolences and memories with the family, here on Don's tribute wall.
Arrangements entrusted to Floral Haven Funeral Home.
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