- Date Of Birth: June 28, 1932
- Date Of Death: August 10, 2013
- State: Colorado
Donald Lee Brendel passed away on August 10th, 2013 in Canon City, CO at the age of 81. Don was born on June 28th, 1932 in Mason City, Iowa, the son of Herbert and Amy (Van Duyn) Brendel. He is survived by his three sons Jim (Pam) of Denver, Jerry (Jackie) of Rocklin, CA and Greg (Katherine) of Dallas, along with eight grandchildren and his sister Melva Crotty. He was preceded in death by his sister Melavie Sweeney. Don graduated from Iowa State Teachers College in 1954 with a degree in Physical Education and Adams State College in 1967 with a Masters in Counseling. He married Charlene Rae Guthridge in 1954 and then served in the Army from 1954-56 during the Korean War. After working for General Telephone in Santa Monica, Don moved his young family to Colorado in 1963 where he began his teaching and coaching career, first in Erie, then in Las Animas, Center, and finally as guidance counselor at Canon City. While at CCHS, he also coached the boys tennis team, formed numerous lifelong friendships with his fellow teachers, and positively impacted the lives and futures of hundreds of students. Don enjoyed playing tennis, dancing, and family activities. He was an avid genealogist as well as an enthusiast of all things German. Above all, Don loved to watch his sons compete in their various athletic activities, and would travel countless miles to support his boys. Don will be missed very much for his love of life, sense of humor, and loyalty.
