Donald Dean Staples, age 85, of Haubstadt, IN, passed away at North River Health Campus in Evansville, IN, on August 20, 2025. He was born January 14, 1940, in Indianapolis, IN, to the late William and Vera (Garrett) Staples.

Donald was a graduate of Manual High School in Indianapolis and dedicated 44 years of service to Eli Lilly and Company.  On June 6, 1959, he married Meltina Smith, and together they raised three children. The family spent 18 years in the town of Chrisman, IL, a small town that he loved and praised as the best place to raise his family. A passionate antique car enthusiast. Mr. Staples built several award-winning vehicles and was an avid supporter of the Evansville Frog Follies car show. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren at Turkey Run State Park, where he shared his love for swimming and hiking.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Robert, Thomas, James, Jerry, and Stephen Staples.He is survived by his sister, Carole (John) Hill.

Donald is survived by his wife of 66 years, Meltina Staples of Haubstadt, IN; children, Jeff (Linda) Staples of Oak Point, TX, Kimberly Staples of Anthem, AZ, Lindsay (Terri) Staples of Evansville, IN; grandchildren, Erynn (Jeff) Eller, Jenna (Kevin) Gengelbach, Tyler (Alicia) Staples, Will (Lisa) Redman, Austin (Aubree) Staples, and Raquel Staples; and great-grandchildren, Hudson and Henley Eller, Liam and Luke Redman,  Miles Wilson, Rhett and Clara Gengelbach, Zoey and Cameron Staples.

The family will have a private service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Don's name to the Chrisman Public Library at 108 N. Illinois Street, Chrisman, IL 61924 or online for Turkey Run State Park. Online condolences may be left at stodghillfuneralhome.com.

Chrisman Public Library
108 N. Illinois St., Chrisman IL 61924
Tel: 1-217-269-3011
Web: http://chrismanpubliclibrary.com

Turkey Run State Park
8121 Park Rd, Marshall IN 47859
Tel: 1-765-597-2635
Web: http://on.IN.gov/turkeyrunsp