Donald Lee Mendonca passed away peacefully on Friday, October 20, 2023 at 5:45 pm at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, KS.
Don was born February 2, 1950 in Sacramento, California. He spent most of his life there until he joined the US Army after graduating high school.
The army brought him all over the states but his permanent station landed him in Fort Riley, KS. After leaving the army, Don remained in the Manhattan area where his love for cars took over! Anything fast and furious called his name!
It was during this time when he made lifelong friends with an amazing couple, Roxie Austin Hawkins and Kirby Hawkins. Kirby shared Don's enthusiasm for life which always included hunting and, of course, cars!
Don spent a few years back in California but ultimately ended up back in the Manhattan, KS area where he reignited his long-lost love with his life partner, Debbie Boller. After that reunion, the couple were inseparable, spending their time with family, friends and going to garage sales. Don also took great pride in his model car collection and his Hot Wheels collection he was building.
Don and Debbie, however, shared their lives with their most proud accomplishment, their son, Donald Lee.
Don was a family-oriented guy whose passion was his family first and cars a very close second. Anyone who knew Don could tell you all about either of them. His time with others was spent talking about all of his passions.
Don is survived by his life partner, Debbie Boller; their little puppy, Mia; their son, Donald (Shawna) Boller; 2 daughters, Val (Dustin) and Leah (Alan). He is also survived by his sister who resides in California. He also leaves behind many grandchildren and even 5 great grandchildren! He was proceeded in death by his parents.
His wishes were to be cremated, there will be a celebration of life for Don at a later date, so everyone who knew and loved him can be together to share the crazy stories of Don's dedication to his family and cars and everything in between! More information to come later!
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with service arrangements.