Donald Gene Whitson, 57, of Garfield, died Wednesday, February 19, at his home.

He was born January 15, 1963 in El Dorado, Kansas to Edgar J. Whitson and Mary E. Combs. Donald (Donnie) was a master craftsman of anything you wanted made of wood. He could build a house, beautiful furniture, handmade bows or a chicken pen. He was so talented and skillful in creating anything that solved a problem. He was a lover of living in the country and being at home with Melaney and his pets including his chickens. He was a rescuer, gentleman farmer, fisherman, gardener, awesome cook, and had an eagle eye for shooting a target with a gun or a bow.

He was proud of his kids and considered them his best accomplishment. He loved deeply and quietly and shed many tears about life's disappointments even when it was because of his own limitations. His heart was as big as the moon but he didn't always know when and how to share it.

He believed in God and knew he would see his Dad and Mom again and they would be on a bass boat catching fish. Donnie will be our guardian angel for those of us left behind, especially his grand kids.

Thank you for making this little world a more interesting place to live and love. You will be sadly missed.He is preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors are his partner of ten years Melaney Matthis of the home; one son Daniel Whitson and wife Aubrey of Fayetteville; one daughter Amanda Williams of Pea Ridge; two brothers Eddie Whitson of Towanda, Kansas, Jerald "Chink" Whitson of Wichita, Kansas; one sister Annetta Bethel of Wichita, Kansas; five grandchildren,Tucker Whitson, Colton Davidson, Mason Williams, Jett Whitson, and Kyte Whitson.

A graveside service is set for 3:00p.m. Saturday, February 29 at Ruddick Cemetery in Garfield. No visitation. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to your local animal shelter.

Online condolences may be made at siscofuneralhome.net