He was born at the Stonewall Jackson House in Lexington April 16, 1952, to Bertha “Pat” Knick and Edward Paige Knick of Buena Vista.

Donald, affectionately known as “Donny” by family and friends, graduated from Parry McCluer High School. Post graduation, he served in the United States Air Force and then settled in Vinton. He was notably schooled and skilled in HVAC, the production of “spyware,” and a team member of ITT in Roanoke for a large portion of his career.

Donny was a passionate hobbyist through the years and fully invested himself in his hobbies; among them included athletic training, biking, fishing and learning formal dance styles.

Conversations were always reflective and informative when talking to Donny. His favorite topics to discuss were general and military history, political news and fond memories.

Generosity was the channel of Donny’s love. He enthusiastically and faithfully honored 2 Corinthians 9:7 “God loves a cheerful giver,” and blessed many by his kind and generous spirit.

Donny was a social soul with a quick wit, and he is most fondly remembered for his natural and strong sense of humor. He easily entertained those around him with engaging (and often hilarious) stories of past times. These stories were a hallmark of birthday and holiday gatherings and will be greatly missed.

Donny leaves behind several loved ones who will forever hold him dear: brothers David Knick (Sandra) and Darryl Knick (Linda) from Buena Vista, and a broad family tree of nieces, nephews, and cousins — all of whom he deeply cherished. Our sentiments echo his, and the emptiness we feel is only a testament to how much he was a precious and irreplaceable person in our lives.

A graveside service will be conducted at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, at New Monmouth Presbyterian Church Cemetery.

Arrangements are by Bolling, Grose, & Lotts Funeral Home and Cremation Services. NG