James Wesley Donithan

A beloved husband, dad, grandpa, and friend, James Wesley Donithan, 83, of Harpers Ferry, IA, formerly of Elizabethtown, IL, was called to his eternal home to be with the Lord on Friday, September 1, 2023. The family invites you to join them for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, October 14, 2023 , from 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM at the Golden Circle Senior Center in Elizabethtown, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Wesley's memory to: The Golden Circle Senior Center at 129 IL Route 146 East, Elizabethtown, IL. 62931. Martin-Grau Funeral Home in Waukon, IA is assisting the family.

James Wesley Donithan was born in the Sparks Hill Community, IL, to the Loren and Ailene Donithan. Wesley worked in the steel industry, moving from Indiana, Michigan, Delaware, Ohio, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Kentucky, and retired in Elizabethtown, IL, after 40 years of dedicated service. He was a devoted member of the Church of Christ, a board member for the Golden Circle, and was an active member of the Main Street organization.

He loved music and enjoyed playing his banjo-ukulele around the campfire. He had a strong, beautiful singing voice, which was enjoyed and admired by all who heard it. He cheered for the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Southern Illinois Miners team.

Family was a core value for Wesley. He worked hard to provide for the family, raised three kids, and was proud when all of them graduated from college. His pride and joy continued to be his seven grandsons and six greats. We will never forget Dad's famous words, "Remember your last name!" The sparkle in his eyes, big, beautiful smile, and sense of whit will never be forgotten.

Preceding him in death are his parents; his brothers: Cecil, LeRoy, and Roy Donithan; and sister Doris Donithan Ochodnicky. He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Faye Hubbard Donithan; daughter Kim Donithan Larson; son Kinch Wesley Donithan; and daughter Kristi Donithan O'Brien. Grandsons include Zach Larson, Koby Donithan, Luke Larson, Kory Donithan, Gabe Larson, Colin O'Brien, and Chris O'Brien.