1931-2020

Donald “Don” Kempski, 88 of Ocala, Fla., and formerly of Hammond, Ind. and Miami, Fla., passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 11, 2020, with his son and daughter-in-law at his side. 

Loving father of James Kempski and Donna Darlene (Dee Dee) Kempski-Moya; grandfather of Conrad Kempski, Fabien Eiras, and Carly Kempski; brother of Ann Gomben; and beloved father-in-law of Tina Kempski.  Don was a devoted husband to the late Sara (Winkle) Kempski. His parents were Adam and Sophie (Mysliwy) Kempski. 

Don was a US Marine Veteran of the Korean War and was employed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).  Don was on duty and in charge of the flight sector during the space shuttle Challenger explosion on January 28, 1986. 

Don enjoyed making others laugh and was a humorous storyteller and jokester. He loved to handout small kissing santas during the holidays. He was also an avid card player, enjoyed crossword puzzles and spending time with his family and friends.  Don’s love of travel took him to all 50 states and 6 different countries.

 A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, July 27, 2020, at the Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services - Ocala. Sentiments may be left online at www.hiers-baxley.com . Due to COVID19, this service will be available to view online.  https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/310172439  .

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be sent to Duke Hospital (https://www.gifts.duke.edu/medpp) in memory of Donald Kempski.