Donald Lee Campbell

Donald Lee Campbell, 99, of Royal Center, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at Woodbridge Health Campus.

Don's life was a testament to hard work, love of family, and unwavering service to others. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Born on February 5, 1925, in Cass County, Indiana, to the late Ross and Pina (Spencer) Campbell, Don was a graduate of Royal Center High School, Class of 1943. A proud U.S. Navy veteran of World War II, Don served his country with honor—a chapter of his life that shaped the man he would become.

After returning to Royal Center, Don married the love of his life Mary Ellen Shaver on April 22, 1951. Together they raised two children, Jeffrey Campbell and Lee Ellen Albertson, and shared 71 years of love, partnership, and memories. 

Don was a dedicated dairy farmer and after selling his herd, he worked on a brick mason crew—and while he was described by many as the hardest working man they knew, his life was defined by so much more than just work. He was a longtime member of Crooked Creek Christian Church, the Royal Center Lions Club, and the American Legion. He had an exceptional talent for woodworking and a lifelong passion for fishing—hobbies that brought him much peace and satisfaction in his later years.

Don was a quiet man with a warm heart—always quick to lend a helping hand or make you laugh. He was proud of his family and cherished the time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. In fact, when his farm was no longer full of cattle, he raised donkeys, much to the delight of his grandchildren and every other kid who benefitted from the donkey rides. 

He is survived by his children, Jeffrey Campbell (Genevieve) and Lee Ellen Albertson (James); grandchildren, Emily Wiland (Homer), Ashley Aune (Will), and Devin Campbell (Kylie); and great-grandchildren, Benjamin Wiland, Madeline Wiland, and Katelyn Aune. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Ellen, and his brother, Eugene Campbell.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at Rans Funeral Homes & Crematory, Harrison Chapel, 304 S. Chicago St., Royal Center.

A service celebrating Don's life will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at Crooked Creek Christian Church. Burial will follow at Crooked Creek Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Crooked Creek Christian Church in Don's memory. Online condolences and guestbook messages may be shared with the family at www.ransfuneralhomes.com.