Obituary for Donald "Donnie" Griffith | Locke Funeral Services

Donald "Donnie" Griffith

June 1, 1956 - December 17, 2022

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Memorial Service

Wednesday, December 28, 2022

From 10:30 AM to 11:15 AM

Pillar of the Cedar Valley

1410 W. Dunkerton Rd.,
Waterloo, IA 50703

Memorial Visitation

Wednesday, December 28, 2022

From 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM

Pillar of the Cedar Valley

1410 Dunkerton Rd.,
Waterloo, IA 50701

Memorials

River Hills Schools 2700 Grand Blvd, Cedar Falls 50613

Donald "Donnie" D. Griffith was born on June 1, 1956, in Waterloo, Iowa, to his parents Donald G. and LaVon (Busey) Griffith. Growing up, Donnie faced many physical and mental challenges, but was able to live a very fulfilling life; he attended River Hills School in Cedar Falls, graduating in 1977. For many years, Donnie was part of a group home of EPI and when he needed more skilled care, he moved into County View (now known as Pillar of Cedar Valley) in Waterloo, where the residents and his caregiver, have been like family to him.

For many years, Donnie worked at Area 7 in Waterloo, where he worked doing various projects. He loved singing and telling jokes, was an avid dog lover and was a former bowler for the Special Olympics. Donnie was a bright light to many and brought joy to those around him. He will be dearly missed by his family, and his Pillar community.

Donnie is survived by his sisters Debbie Griffith of Wappapello, MO, Cathy (Jim) Jensen of Raymond, IA and brothers Pat Griffith of Ottumwa, IA, and Mike (Felicia) Griffith of Shreveport, LA; sister-in-law Karen Griffith of Cook, MN; many nieces and nephews. He rejoins in Heaven his parents; brother Brian Griffith; nephew Robert Richter and niece Cari Tyler.

A memorial service for Donnie will be held on Wednesday, December 28th at 10:30 AM at Pillar of Cedar Valley, 1410 W. Dunkerton, Rd., Waterloo, Iowa 50703. Inurnment will be held privately by the family, at a later date. Memorials may be directed to River Hills School, 2700 Grand Blvd., Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613. Locke Funeral Home at Tower Park in Waterloo is caring for Donnie and his family. For memories of Donnie or messages of condolence, please visit www.lockefuneralservices.com.

Condolences

I'm so very sorry for your loss. Donny was a funny fella in a groovy kinda way. I enjoyed working with him.

Linda Billick

I met Donnie a few years ago when my dog Ellie and I would visit County View (Pillars.). He was one of our favorites. Ellie would put her paws upon his wheelchair and lick his hands. He would laugh and laugh! He was a special person. God bless your family.

Joyce Barbatti

Donnie was truly a very special person. I worked with him for years at a day program. He was still able to get around with his walker at the time & used a wheelchair only occasionally. For many summers we were able to take Don and the group to Gates Pool for a morning of swimming. With a life jacket on, I would carry him around the pool. He LOVED it! His smile was so big! Don loved to joke around - he had such a big & loving personality. Although he had many physical struggles, Don would always share his smile - and would just keep on trying. Don, I'm sure you will be greatly missed. I am grateful to have known you. May God bless you. Love and peace.

Lynette Miller

Don is truly going to be missed I really enjoyed him telling jokes and singing each day he will always have a place in my heart…. R.I.P

Donald Bogardus

Took care of Don for several years at Country View and then Pillar until my retirement. Loved singing with him and joking around to get him laughing. Don and were born only 8 days apart, so we grew up watching the same TV shows, same era etc. which gave us alot in common to talk about. Will always have fond memories of him.

Doug Hodges

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