Don W. Bockler

Don W. Bockler, 70, of Peoria, IL passed away in his home on Monday morning, May 1, 2017 surrounded by family and friends. He was born in Peoria, IL on December 28, 1946 to Roy A. and Martha M. (Kepple) Bockler. He married the love of his life, Paulette B. Griebel, on July 26, 1969 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Peoria. She passed away on October 28, 2015. Surviving are his daughter Danielle (Nathan) Thomas of Peoria, IL; son Steve (Cara) Bockler of Fishers, IN; two beloved grandsons Drew Bockler and Elijah Paul Thomas; brother Roy (Debbie) Bockler of Pekin, IL; and sister Beverly McNeeley of Peoria, IL. He was preceded in death by his parents and step-mother Leona R. Bockler. Don was a graduate of Metamora Township and Monmouth College, where he was a proud member of the Sigma Epsilon Fraternity. He earned his administrative degree from Illinois State University. He developed his strong work ethic early in life working on the family farm and for Bockler Excavating. The first 12 years of his career were spent teaching at Parkview Junior High before serving as principal for an additional 17 years. He then continued on to LaSalle Elementary as principal for an additional 5 years prior to retiring in 2002. Following his retirement, he continued to support the Creve Coeur community serving in many roles within the school district. During the summer months, you could find Don managing Wedgewood Swim Club where he cherished the joy that the pool brought to so many families. Don valued spending time with his family and friends, yearly trips to Siesta Keys with his bride of 46 years, spending time at the "shed," going to local high school athletic events, Bradley games, "book club" and breakfast with the boys, and making memories with his grandsons. Don truly enjoyed helping and giving back to others by volunteering for numerous organizations, including the Lions Club, Thanksgiving Dinners, Santa's Helper for Headstart, Highway Clean-up, Parkview Parents Club Bingo, as well as several others. Don was an inspiration to those around him, positively impacting many lives. He was loyal friend, devoted husband, father, son, brother, educator, and mentor. He gave selflessly, making a point to treat others with kindness and respect but always making sure to get the last word in. Anyone who knew Don would tell you how his booming voice, contagious laugh, and positive attitude commanded attention and respect. How blessed were those whose lives were enriched by this amazing man. He will be missed tremendously. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, May 8, 2017 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 135 NE Randolph Avenue, Peoria, IL with Reverend Mark J. Nelson officiating. Visitation for Don will be held from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm on Sunday, May 7, 2017 at LaSalle Elementary School, in the Don Bockler Gymnasium, 300 N. Highland Avenue in Creve Coeur. In lieu of flowers and to honor Don's value for education and spirit of giving, the family is asking donations be given to Creve Coeur School District #76, 300 N. Highland Avenue, Creve Coeur, IL 61610. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.