Donald C. LaCkore

Mr. Donald C. LaCkore, age 77 years, of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away Wednesday, April 27, 2011 at Adams Street Place. Don was born at home on March 31, 1934 in Breed, Wis., a son of Harold and Gladys Flynn LaCkore. On April 19, 1990 in California, Mo., he married Kathryn Van Landuyt. A resident of the central Missouri area since 1985, Don graduated from Libertyville High School in Illinois. He then enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1952. While in service, he graduated with honors from the noncommissioned officers training school in 1961; he received an academic achievement award, a speech award, and besides stateside duty, he served in Alaska, Korea and Japan. He was employed with Pan American World Airways from 1963 until 1979. He then worked for the Missouri Department of Corrections as a Programming and Analyst Supervisor to the Office of the Director, until his retirement in 1996. Don was actively involved with the Boy Scouts of America, serving as scout leader for 25 years. He was awarded the District Award of Merit 1971-1972 and the Silver Beaver Award in 1972. He was a past member of the Mid Mo Old Car Club, the Military Vehicle Preservation Assc., the Parkinson's Support Group, and the Four Lakes Golf Club in Florida. Don enjoyed spending his winters in Winter Haven, Fla.; writing hundreds of songs over his lifetime, and spending time with family and friends. Survivors include: his wife, Katie LaCkore of Jefferson City; five children, Kip LaCkore, Kristi LaCkore, Kelly Fraser and husband Tom, Kurt LaCkore and wife Tara, and Kerry Llorens and husband Robert; one brother, Jack LaCkore and wife Madeleine; 12 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, all of Florida. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister, Duade Hatch. A celebration of Don's life will be held at his home, 3930 Greenbriar Drive, Jefferson City, MO 65109, from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m., Saturday, May 7, 2011, and all neighbors, coworkers, and friends are invited to attend. Graveside services and interment will be held at Willow Lawn Cemetery in Vernon Hills, Ill. at a later time. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Michael J. Fox Parkinson's Foundation. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Freeman Mortuary. www.freemanmortuary.com