Donald L. Meinen

Donald L. Meinen, age 85 years, formerly of Grandview, Missouri, died on August 29, 2025, at Villa Saint Francis Nursing Home in Olathe, Kansas, where he resided for the past 3 years. He was predeceased by his wife, Cynthia Meinen, his parents, Vincent Meinen and Rose (Gallagher) Meinen, and two brothers, Father Dennis Meinen and Jerry Meinen (who passed in infancy). Don is survived by two brothers, Jim Meinen of Arizona and Gene Meinen of Texas, daughter Marie Fields of Florida, son Donald (“Pat”) L. Meinen, Jr. of Virgina, stepdaughter, Catherine Skelton of Kansas, and stepson Robert Skelton of Texas. Don will be interred in Sioux City, Iowa.

Don proudly served his country as a Coast Guard veteran and later applied his talents as an electronics specialist, working behind the scenes to keep Disney attractions running smoothly. A lifelong tinkerer, he found joy in HAM radio and spent countless hours exploring the intricacies of electronics and computers. Standing over six feet tall, Don had a gentle spirit, often happily pinned down by a Yorkie or Miniature Schnauzer curled up on his lap. He was a devoted member of the Catholic faith.

Don and his wife were known for their incredible generosity and kindness. If you knocked on their door in need of food, they would not hesitate to pull food from their pantry to help you get to next week. They gave freely to a number of charities, and if you were down on your luck, they would buy you groceries, clothing, whatever was needed.

Don had a well-known sweet tooth, with candy stashes tucked away in every corner of his home, and later, his nursing home room. It is possible that a few hidden caches of sweets remain undiscovered at his old house, a testament to his love of treats. Sprite was his drink of choice, and the nursing home staff knew that Don was to receive two cans with his dinner, no exceptions.

He once joked that he only received the Coast Guard’s Good Conduct Medal because he was never caught. He didn’t elaborate, and no one dared to ask.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nuns and staff at Villa Saint Francis for their loving care during the final three years of Don’s life. They went above and beyond in caring for him, treating him with dignity, compassion, and warmth. Special gratitude also goes to Darcy Munzer, a dear family friend, for her unwavering support in managing Don’s affairs over many years, especially during his last illness.