Don was born on April 9, 1949, in Unionville, Missouri, to Don and Mary Kathleen Dooley. He was the oldest of five children.
Don worked for many years at El Dorado Bus and Beechcraft. At Beechcraft, he became a union steward and proudly represented his fellow aerospace workers for several years. After leaving Beechcraft, Don continued his work as a labor advocate by joining KOSE and KPERS, where he represented teachers, law enforcement dispatchers, prison guards, and others.
He finished his career working for St. Francis as a foster family recruiter. He found many new families who went on to foster hundreds of children in need across the state.
Before becoming ill, Don was an avid golfer, fisherman, cook, and BBQ master. He loved hitting a bucket of balls on his way home from work, smoking his famous ribs, golfing in Lindsborg on the weekends, and following his children and grandchildren as they grew.
Don married his wife, Cleona, on March 1, 1986. Together, they raised their children, traveled, had adventures through many states, and, most importantly, loved each other through good times and bad — in sickness and in health.
Don was preceded in death by his parents and his grandson, Joshua Dooley. He is survived by his wife, Cleona; daughter Catie (Cathy) Stuart (Dwayne); sons Donald Dooley Jr. (Dixie), Brad Sherbert (Jennifer), Travis Dooley (Bridgette), and Dallas Taylor (Whitney); and step-children Trisha Womack and Chad Roberts. He is also survived by his siblings Vicki Goodson (Dave), Gary Dooley, Karen West, and Sandy Ryser (Rich); three nieces and five nephews; 18 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.
Don received extraordinary care from many healthcare professionals during his long illness. Their tireless efforts allowed his family to share many more years with him. The family would especially like to recognize Dr. Brian Pavey, the entire staff of Fresenius Kidney Care, the SRHC Emergency Department, and the 4th Medical floor nurses and doctors for their patience, skill, and wisdom. We would also like to thank RN Kelly Winslow for her kindness, assistance, and care during Don’s final hours.
A celebration of life will be held on June 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Cathedral, 138 S. 8th St., Salina, KS, with lunch provided following the service. Interment of his ashes will take place at a later date with his family.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Roselawn Burial and Cremation Services. Online condolences may be sent to www.roselawnsalina.com.
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