Donald "Don" E. Griffin

Donald “Don” E. Griffin, 86, of Marion, Ohio, earned his heavenly wings on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Grant Medical Center, surrounded by the love of his family. His life was one marked by faith, service, hard work, and an unwavering devotion to those he loved.

Don was first united in marriage to Linda Lou and shared a daughter, Kelly Griffin Harty. Don was again united in marriage to Margaret Martha, and together they had a son, Kory (Christina) Griffin. Together they shared many cherished years before Margaret preceded him in death on December 18, 1999.

Love found Don once again when he married Dorothy Ann Summers on February 13, 2010. Together they shared 17 wonderful years filled with companionship, laughter, and unwavering love until his passing.

Born on March 10, 1940, in Marion, Ohio, Don was the son of the late Howard Kenneth Griffin and Anna Marie Sutton. A proud graduate of Marion Harding High School, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. Following his military service, Don returned home to Marion, where he began working at Whirlpool. His commitment to serving others eventually led him to the Marion Police Department and the F.O.P., where he faithfully served his community as a police officer until his retirement.

Above all else, Don was a man of deep faith and conviction. As a Christian, he didn’t simply speak about his beliefs—he lived them each day through his kindness, generosity, and the way he loved his family, friends, and neighbors. His steady presence and quiet example left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

To those closest to him, Don was affectionately known as a “porch-sittin’ son of a gun.” A true creature of habit, he found joy in life’s simple pleasures and never wanted to go a day without his favorite Nutter Butter cookies and a Diet Coke. He treasured time outdoors and was happiest with a fishing pole in his hand, tending to his garden, canning the fruits of his labor, gathering around a campfire, or enjoying hunting and target shooting. Many family members fondly remember the countless pounds of walleye he proudly brought home from fishing trips to Lake Erie.

Don’s greatest pride, however, was always his family. He loved deeply, laughed often, and created memories that will live on for generations. Though his absence leaves an immeasurable void, his legacy of faith, service, love, and steadfast character will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Don will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all whose lives he touched.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, two sisters, and two children.

Left to continue his legacy are his beloved wife, Dorothy Ann Griffin; his daughter, Kelly Griffin Harty; his son, Kory (Christina) Griffin; and his grandchildren: Kili (Steve) Estep, Hailey Harty, Kolton Pauly, Hunter Harty, Kendyl Pauly, Kerry (Joshua) Mundy, Shylynn Griffin, Ava Griffin, Parker Harty, and Koy Pauly. He also leaves behind numerous loving great-grandchildren, uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

There will be an interment service at a later date at Chapel Heights Memorial Gardens.

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