Donald “Don” F. Poiter, 87, of Centralia passed away surrounded by the love of his family, on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at his home. He was born on March 17, 1937, the son of Frank and Eva (Hicks) Poiter in Du Quion, Illinois. He married the love of his life, Donna Lichtenfeld on June 27, 1959, in Hobart, Indiana, and she survives him in Centralia.
Along with his devoted wife of 65 years, Donna Poiter, Don is survived by his children, Kathleen Loness, James Jansen of Troy, MO, Mark Poiter and wife Laura of Windfield, MO, and Brenda Mantia and husband Kevin of Troy, MO; grandchildren, Ryan Panchot and wife Brittany, Amanda Mantia, Sarah Patriarca and husband Justin, Victoria Pozzi and husband Anthony, Jeremy Poiter, and Amber Poiter; precious great-grandchildren, Aiden Patriarca, Kinsley Patriarca, Amelia Panchot, and Jameson Panchot; special nephew, Fr. Jonathan Wallis of Fortworth, TX; and several nieces and nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Joan Grady.
Don was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Centralia. He worked for General Motors in St. Louis as an inspector. As a member of Greenview Golf Club he loved a good game of golf, never missing Wednesday night league. Don enjoyed fishing for crappie and blue gill and savoring the fresh flavors of his catch. He also appreciated time in the great outdoors while hunting. Don was an athlete himself and could often be found cheering for his favorite sports teams on television. Don was a protective provider for his family, respected by his community, and a loyal friend. He will be remembered fondly and deeply missed.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Centralia with his nephew, Fr. Jonathan Wallis officiating. Interment will follow at Elmwood Cemetery in Centralia. Friends and relatives are welcome to a visitation time, to offer support and words of comfort to Don’s family from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday at the Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia. Memorials may be made in Don’s honor to Where Pigs Fly Farm & Pigs Aloft Museum 2810 Hwy 50 East Linn, MO 65051. Online condolences and memories of Don may be shared with his family by visiting www.maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia is privileged to be assisting the family of Don Poiter with arrangements.
