Donald E. Battleday, age 86, of Rensselaer, IN, passed away on January 24, 2025, at the home of his daughter.  Donald was born on October 16, 1938, in Rensselaer, IN, to George E. and Gladys E. (Bill) Battleday.  Don grew up on the family farm outside of Rensselaer and graduated from Rensselaer Central High School in 1956. He served in the U.S Army from 1956 – 1959. Upon returning home from the service, he married the love of his life, Bonnie J. Kessler on November 7, 1959 in Rensselaer and started a family in Rensselaer. In the early years, Don tried living in Porter IN, and Hayward, CA, but after a short time, Don was ready to return to Rensselaer. Don worked at several jobs including, Sealy Springs, mechanic for a trucking company, in the steel mills, Massey Ferguson, and John Deere dealerships. Don loved the farm life and eventually moved his family to the country and lived on the family farm. He farmed with his father for a period of time and then started a small trucking business hauling steel. Don drove a semi until he had to retire at age 76 due to health reasons. Don and Bonnie loved the country life and enjoyed 64 years together.

Don was a mechanic by trade and when not working, could be found in his shop working on something. He always made time to help Bonnie with her craft business, canning, and around the house. Don enjoyed reading, music, automobiles, and guns. He was a lifetime member of the NRA. Don really loved to watch old western shows.

Don was a devoted son, husband, and father. Family was most important to him, and he enjoyed going to family events. He was a kind and caring person who never knew a stranger. He never hesitated to help others, even when he did not have much to give. Anyone that knew Don, knew he had a great sense of humor and loved a good joke.

In 2023, Don's service time was acknowledged by receiving the "Atomic Veterans Service" certificate and medal from the government. This was to acknowledge that he was stationed in the South Pacific during the testing of atomic bombs.

Don lived the last few months of his life with his daughter and son-in-law, Anita and Tim Taylor in rural Attica, where he received the most loving care.

Donald is proceeded in death by his parents; beloved wife, Bonnie; daughter, Debra Sue; and siblings, Halden (Jo) Battleday, Robert (Agnes) Battleday, Jean (Frank) Huff, and Janice Still.

Donald is survived by daughters; Anita (Tim) Taylor, Attica IN, and Jana (Doug) Hesler, Hillsboro IN; grandchildren, Justin (Jacqueline) Thomas, Battle Ground IN, Nicholas Thomas, Noblesville IN, Rachel (Evan) Zafir, Zionsville IN, and Christopher Rubley, Crawfordsville IN; and great-grandchildren, Haley Thomas, Brady Thomas, and Hope Zafir; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In accordance with Don's wishes, he will be cremated, with services provided by Family & Friends Funeral Home of Wingate IN. There will be a graveside memorial and celebration of life service announced at a later date.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers, medical professionals, and family members who provided exceptional support and comfort to Don. Visit us online at www.familyandfriendsfh.com to sign the guest book or share a memory.