Donald Gene Pittrich

Donald Gene Pittrich 84, of Eldon, passed away Tuesday, June 27, 2017, at Eldon Nursing and Rehab. He was born in Russellville, the son of the late Frank J. and Anna M. Gemeinhardt Pittrich. He was a member and raised in the Trinity Lutheran Church in Russellville. He is a current member of the First Christian Church Disciples of Christ in Eldon. On July 4, 1964, he was united in marriage to Billie Sue Bonnot, who survives at the home. Don was a 1951 graduate of Russellville High School. He received his associates degree from Jefferson City Jr. College in 1953, B.S. in Physical Education and Mathematics in 1957 and his Masters in Elementary Education in 1963 both from the University of Missouri. Don served in the United States Army from 1953-1955. Don had a passion for learning, dedicating 43 years to education. He began his teaching career in Beardstown, Illinois and also worked for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Most of Don's career was spent educating children here in Eldon where he spent 29 1/2 years and was instrumental in building Upper Elementary School. During his working career he also sold books for Follett Book Company where he set the record for highest sales of $400,000 in one year. Don was very active in his community and was a member and or president of numerous organizations which include: Eldon Jaycees, Miller County Republican Party, Mid-Mo Swim Conference, Eldon Dolphins, Kiwanis, Miller County Retired Teachers Association and membership chair for the State of Missouri Retired Teacher Association. Don played a influential role in getting both pools in Eldon constructed. Don loved life and being active in the community. He thought that is was important to give back to the kids and the town that he loved, dedicating most of his life to serving others. Don loved to laugh and tell jokes. He enjoyed writing and could turn a short story into a novel. Don enjoying cooking, especially making his traditional Christmas breakfast. Most of all he just loved people, especially spending time with his family. Along with his wife Billie he is survived by three daughters: Terri McHolland (Greg) of Republic, Jodi Tompkins (Dennis) of Eldon and Jennifer Larson (Kirk) of Savanna, Missouri; seven grandchildren: Mary "Katie" Groves, Elizabeth "Libby" Cochran, Kyle Larson, Andrew McHolland, Taylor Tompkins, Erin Larson and Sarah Tompkins and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by one brother: Roy Pittrich (Lola Mae) and one sister: Edna Pittrich. Friends will be received from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, July 7, 2017, at the Upper Elementary School. Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday July 8, 2017, at Upper Elementary School with Dr. Bill Foglesong officiating. Interment will follow in Eldon City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers and in honor of Don's passion for education, expression of sympathy may be made to the Don Pittrich Education Scholarship to be set up for future students of Eldon High School. Arrangements are under the direction of MILLARD-REKUS Family Funeral Chapel, 902 East North Street, Eldon, MO 65026 (573) 392-3351. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com