Donald E. Montgomery

Donald E. Montgomery, 65, of Sligo, died unexpectedly at his home on Monday, October 28, 2013. Born October 8, 1948, he was the son of Frederick E. Montgomery of Sligo and the late Betty K. Shirey Montgomery. He was married to Esther M. Raybuck on October 25, 1968, who survives. They were high school sweethearts, and for 45 years she was the love of his life. He was very proud of his family and was happiest when surrounded by them. He was a Vietnam War veteran who served in the United States Army from 1966 to 1972. He continued to serve his comrades state side by supporting them in many advocacy positions throughout his life. He was Post Commander of the Clarion VFW Post 2145 for the past 17 years, and a member of the Order of the Silver Rose for his exposure to Agent Orange. Don was a past District Commander of District 19 for two years. Don enjoyed participating in local Veteran’s and Patriot’s Day events by being the Master of Ceremonies within Clarion County and Clarion County schools. Don was the Union President of the United Mine Workers Local #1994 and a Member of the Knox American Legion. He was employed by RFI Energy, formerly C & K Coal Company, for the last 40 years as a heavy equipment operator. Don was a dedicated brother, husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his father; wife; two sisters, Bonnie J. (Joe) Hubauer of Monongahela and Barbara R. (Robert) Conner of Sligo; a brother, Fred C. (Hallie) Montgomery of Ford City; four children, Donna M. (Todd) Priester of Felton, Debbi L. (Chris) Priester of Clearfield, Donald E. (Ann) Montgomery Jr. of Clarion, and Deanna J. Montgomery of Clarion; 12 grandchildren, Craig, Erin, and Megan Priester, Christopher, Jeremy, Peyton, Brittani, and Courtney Priester, Ashley and Donovan Montgomery, and Danielle and Joel Montgomery; and two great grandchildren, Jordan Montgomery and Austin Bridges. In addition to his mother, is proceeded in death by an infant twin brother. Family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 30, 2013, and from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, 2013, at the Robert V. Burns Funeral Home, 638 Wood Street, Clarion. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, November 1, 2013, in the funeral home with Rev. Stephanie Weaver, pastor of the Sligo Presbyterian Church, officiating. Interment will be held in the Churchville Cemetery in Curllsville, where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post 720 of Knox. Family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 30, 2013, and from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, 2013, at the Robert V. Burns Funeral Home, 638 Wood Street, Clarion. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, November 1, 2013, in the funeral home.

Donald E. Montgomery

October 8, 1948 - October 28, 2013