Donald Robinson

Donald Robinson, 85, Bismarck, died June 8, 2004, at his home. Services will be held at 10:30 AM Saturday at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, Bismarck, with the Rev. Thomas E. Kramer officiating. Military graveside services will be held, by VFW Post 1326, at the Glencoe Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4 PM to 9 PM Thursday and 9 AM to 9 PM Friday at Eastgate Funeral Service where a rosary will be held at 7:30 Friday evening. Don Robinson was born on January 9, 1919, one mile west of Glencoe Presbyterian Church on the family farm, the son of William and Margaret Macdonald Robinson. He was raised in Braddock where he graduated from Braddock High School in 1937. Don served in WWII with the 164th Infantry, which was engaged in numerous battles including the Battle of Guadalcanal. After 4 ¢ years, including 3 ¢ years overseas, Don was honorably discharged with several medals and commendations. Don married Veronica Gerhardt Moynier on June 24, 1947 in Bismarck where they continued to make their home. Don was part owner of Ted's Transfer and was also credit manager of Missouri Valley Clinic. During the 1950's, he worked at Guy Larson Music and later owned and operated Robinson Music Company. Don later worked at J.C. Penney for many years. Veronica died in 1987. Don contributed in numerous ways to the community. He was the Jr. Chamber of Commerce President and helped start the Jaycee Park and the Miss North Dakota Pageant. He organized the auxiliary police department with Lt. Frank Wentzel and was the Volunteer Civil Defense Director for Bismarck and Burleigh County. Don was also the President of the Cathedral Choir in the 1960's. He was American Legion Commander and was in the 40/8. Don remained involved with the 164th Infantry throughout his life and served as its assn. president in 1982 and 2001. As president he was instrumental in having the 164th Infantry Memorial installed at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, south of Mandan. Don married Betty Welch Elker on August 7, 1990 in Bismarck. They enjoyed traveling and spending time with family and friends, camping, and being together. Don was a patriotic man who loved his country, his family, and his God. He was a true gentleman who treated people with respect and dignity. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten. Don is survived by his wife, Betty of Bismarck, ND; his daughters and sons-in-law, Dolores Knoll of Mandan, ND, Marlene Gene Koon of Willows, CA, and Jacque John Jensen of Bismarck, ND; his son and daughter-in-law, Richard Mary Robinson of Bismarck; thirteen grandchildren; and twenty-six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Veronica, his son, Dale, two infant children, his son-in-law, Eugene "Corky" Knoll, his grandson, Dennis Knoll, and his brothers, William "B.J." and Robert. Memorials may be given to the North Dakota State Veterans Cemetery, Rte. 2, Box 138, Mandan, ND 58554.

Donald Robinson

January 9, 1919 - June 8, 2004