Donald Max Hanawalt

Donald M. Hanawalt, 85 of Canton, IL passed away Sunday September 21, 2025. He was born in Rock Island, Illinois to the late George C. Hanawalt and Emily (Knopfmeier) Desrochers.

Donald enlisted in the US Navy at the age of 17, and fondly remembered his time in service aboard the USS Caliente (Fleet Oiler) and the opportunities it allowed him to travel the world. Shortly after his return from service, he met and married the love of his life, Phyllis (Breuer) Hanawalt and was married on September 1, 1962.

Throughout his life, Donald perfected skills in many trades including coal mining, construction, truck driving, auto mechanics, machine/building maintenance and fish and game guidance. He retired from the Peoria Journal Star as a maintenance worker, and then joined his wife at Freeman Coal Mine as a hunting and fishing guide to many guests and acquaintances. He will always be remembered as a hard worker, a dedicated and loving husband and father, and a great friend to many.

Donald enjoyed traveling, camping, fishing, hunting, being outdoors, all competitive sports, and spending time with his family and his best friends Rick (Carol) Mendenhall. He loved all animals both his pets and wildlife, and spent many mornings watching the sunrise and admiring all the animals during his walks through Big Creek Park.

He leaves behind his wife of 63 years, Phyllis Hanawalt, son Mark (Shirlene)Hanawalt of Canton, daughter Carie Hanawalt of Normal, IL, Sister Joyce (Ray) Constable of Colorado, Brother in Law Fred (Laurie) Allen of Quincy, IL, Brother in Law Ted (Mary Kay) Allen of Canton, MO, many nieces, nephews, friends and his two “doggies” Dolly and Emma.

He is preceded in death by his Father George, Mother Emily, Step-mother Eunice Hanawalt, sister, Karolee Cooperrider, brother Ellis Hanawalt, brother Dr. Virgil Hockgraver, brother Bill Hanawalt, brother Frank Hanawalt, Mother in Law Dorothy Allen, Brother in Law Junior Breuer, & Sister in law Sally Vonburg.

Cremation rites will be accorded with Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton; A private burial of his ashes will take place at Paloma Cemetery in Paloma, Illinois. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimers Association or the Lewy Body Dementia Association.