Don Kenneth Cooksey

Don Kenneth Cooksey, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2026, in Carlinville, Illinois. Throughout his ninety-one years, Don lived a life marked by dedication to his work, his family, and the communities he called home.

Don Kenneth Cooksey, born on August 13, 1935, in Ellisville, Mississippi, to James and Hazel (Pitts) Cooksey. Don’s early years began in Mississippi, and he later settled in California, where he pursued his education, earning his GED in Bellflower. Early adulthood saw Don step into military service; he proudly served in the United States Army as part of the 101st Airborne Division at Ft Jackson, before joining the 506th Airborne Infantry from October 3, 1955, to September 21, 1957.

After his time in the military, Don built a rich and varied career. He owned a gas and service station in California with his brother Cecil. He raised Cory Catfish for the Pet Store while working there. He later worked as a security guard for Doss Defense Fuels, where his commitment was recognized with an award for his service. He continued to serve others as a school bus driver for Dietrich’s, ensuring the safe travel of students to their schools and sporting events, as well as working for Pillsbury.

Don was also an avid deer hunter. Don and his friend Bill converted 2 different school buses into hunting campers and went hunting together for many years.

Don dedicated himself to the Lord at the Salvation Army in Grand Forks, and he found fulfillment in community work, notably driving Bell Ringers to their locations for the Salvation Army, in Grand Forks.

He was married to JoAnn Conn and was previously married to Theresa Rosentreter.

Don is survived by his daughters, Linda Gabel and Crystal Cooksey; his grandchildren, Theresa, Leroy, April, and Leslie; and his great-grandchildren, Malachi, Xander, Parker, Dylan, McKenzie, Chloe, Shawn, and Zack, his great great granddaughter Valerie, his sister, Bobby Jo McCool, and his ex-wife Theresa Rosentreter.

He is preceded in death by his parents, son James, and siblings: Sylvia, Norma, Cecil.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM at Memorial Park South Cemetery, on August 24, 2026.