In 1970 he married Lee, his pen pal turned lifelong partner, and together they built a life filled with travel, adventure, and love. After retiring from the Air Force, Don worked as a corrections officer and later as a hospital security guard.

He cherished his wife Lee, children K.C. and Spencer, and grandchildren Alexandra, Charlotte, Lauren, Vera, Avery, Emmalyn, and Ezra. Don was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, and son Spencer.