Michael Douglas Donaldson

Mike Donaldson, 79, of Tye passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 26, 2024, at Hendrick Medical Center. The funeral service will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024, 10 a.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Abilene, with the Rev. LaVerne Janssen officiating. Burial will be at the Tye Cemetery, immediately following the funeral. Visitation will be Thursday, May 30, 2024, 6-8 p.m. at Elmwood Funeral Home, 5750 US-277, Abilene.

Mike was born May 4, 1945, in Abilene to Bill Donaldson and Margie Kimmey Donaldson. He grew up in Tye and would later go on to graduate from Abilene High School in 1963. Mike then entered the Stenograph Institute of Abilene to study court reporting. While at school, he applied for a job at Tippett & Gee Engineering, where he would discover his talent, passion, and find a lifelong career as a draftsman. Mike started working for the Texas Department of Transportation in 1987, where he retired with 24 years of service in 2011.

Mike married the love of his life, Mary Fullbright, on January 22, 1972. They were blessed with the joy of parenthood when they welcomed their beloved daughter, Lisa, into the world. In the years to come, was the arrival of his grandchildren, Katie and Michael, where he lovingly gained the title, "Poppy", and embraced all the responsibilities that came along with it. Mike often enjoyed reading one of his many books, especially historical westerns. He was an avid fan of both the Texas Rangers and Dallas Stars. Mike was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church, where he served as both Elder and Congregation President. Even though he was a man of few words, his insight was deeply treasured by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Steven Donaldson, a sister and brother-in-law, Luanne and LeRoy Goodgion, and a nephew, Greg Goodgion.

Mike will be remembered and missed by his wife, Mary Donaldson of Tye; his daughter, Lisa Calvert and husband Marty Calvert of Abilene; his grandchildren Katie Calvert of Abilene, Michael Calvert and fiancé Ashlyn Lovett currently students at Texas Tech; his sister Susan Donaldson of Tye; his sister-in-law Jacqueline Donaldson of San Antonio, and countless nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

Pallbearers for the service will be; Michael Calvert, John Carter, Terry Gilbreath, Corbyn Kendrick, Rusty Miller, and Calvin Rister.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Robert Striegler and to the nurses, physicians and staff in the ICU and Parker-3 at Hendrick, for their exceptional care and kindness during this challenging time.